Decolonise Wembley

To the London Borough of Brent, Quintain Estates Ltd., Camrose London, Barratt Developments Plc, the Watkin Jones Group, the Freshwater Group of Companies, L&Q,

We, the undersigned, concerned individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities, write to you with a shared aspiration for positive change. We believe in the power of acknowledging the past, learning from it, and fostering an environment that is just, inclusive, and free from the shadows of colonialism. We address you today with the hope that Wembley can serve as a beacon of progress, understanding, and reconciliation.

Wembley, a place that has experienced significant transformation over the years, holds within its streets, spaces, and buildings a unique history that intertwines with an imperial past. We commend your efforts in creating a vibrant and thriving community but also wish to engage in a crucial conversation about its historical legacy.

As advocates for historical accuracy and the well-being of all members of society, we urge you to consider the following demands:

(1) Conduct an investigation on the naming convention(s) of your assets, and publish findings

We call upon you to initiate a thorough investigation into the origins of the current naming conventions within Wembley. Unveiling the historical context behind each name will provide a clear understanding of the implications they carry. We request that the findings of this investigation be made public, fostering transparency and accountability.

(2) Release a formal acknowledgement of the need for rectification of the imperial commemorations to the general public

Acknowledgment is the first step towards reconciliation. We request a formal statement from you, acknowledging the need to rectify the colonial commemorations present in Wembley. This acknowledgement will serve as a sign of your commitment to fostering an environment that is respectful and considerate of the diverse history and experiences of Brent residents and the wider north west London region.

(3) Champion the need for education on the realities of British imperialism and its lasting legacies, both within your organisation(s) and to the public/customers it serves.

Education is a powerful tool for change. We urge you to champion the importance of educating both your organisation and the public about the realities of British imperialism and its far-reaching consequences. This knowledge can inspire empathy, understanding, and a shared commitment to a future that is free from the shadows of colonial oppression.

(4) Retroactively rename assets that commemorate the legacy of the 1924 British Empire Exhibition

As a symbol of your dedication to change, we implore you to consider renaming the assets that commemorate the legacy of the 1924 British Empire Exhibition. By doing so, you will take a significant step towards creating an environment that is more sensitive to the experiences of those who have been affected by the darker aspects of this history.

(5) Memorialise the 1924 British Empire Exhibition and its legacy appropriately – and without romance

We believe in preserving history in a way that is truthful, sensitive, and representative of all perspectives. We encourage you to explore ways to memorialise the 1924 British Empire Exhibition and its legacy without romanticising or glorifying it. By commemorating it appropriately, you can contribute to a deeper understanding of history.
___

It is our firm belief that Wembley has the potential to become a shining example of progress and inclusivity. By addressing the colonial legacy, you can lead the way toward healing, understanding, and unity. We understand that change takes time and deliberation, but we also believe that with collective effort, we can build a future that respects the past while embracing a more just and equitable present.

We kindly request your earnest consideration of these demands. Your actions will undoubtedly shape the narrative of Wembley for generations to come, and we hope that this narrative will reflect values of truth, compassion, and progress.