Hammersmith and Fulham Council has defined what it means by 'Black' for its Black History Project, agreeing on a definition that encompasses a wide range of non-white backgrounds. The project aims to explore the feasibility of a Black history hub to celebrate the heritage and contributions of Black communities within the borough, as outlined in the Black History Project 21 July PAC.

The definition, agreed upon at the Black History Steering Group meeting on 26 February 2025, states:

Black is used to refer to people who self-identify as having non-white backgrounds, including people with African, Asian and South American heritage, indigenous minorities (such as Māori, Aboriginal and Native American populations) and people with complex heritage, sometimes described as ethnically diverse.

The Black History Project is being undertaken in partnership with Fulham Palace Trust, which is described as one of six nationally recognised Anti-Racist Museums, and which is the principal heritage asset in the borough.

The project is co-produced with the borough's Black community, with a Black History Steering Group established by Councillor Sharon Holder meeting since autumn 2024. The Black History Project 21 July PAC report states that the administration's commitment to black history is reflected in the co-produced cultural strategy.

To engage with the community, the Steering Group agreed to run an 18-month Community Collecting & Engagement project, planned in three phases across Hammersmith, Shepherds Bush, and Fulham. By the end of this phase, the project will have gathered a range of collected material (both digital and physical) and established strong community partnerships.

The framework of activities includes:

  • Stories: Capturing the lives of communities through oral and visual history.
  • Artefacts: Identifying the personal and social value of objects for a future Black History collection.
  • People: A photography project capturing the lives and environment of residents.
  • Writing: Talks by Black writers exploring the broader cultural context of Black experience.
  • Volunteering: Training people in skills related to content management, events, and community engagement.

The first phase is focused in Fulham, with activities including workshops at West College London and Wendell Park Primary, roadshows at Fulham Palace, and photography and filming projects.

The Black History Project 21 July PAC report emphasises that co-production with the local Black community is key to ensuring the relevance, usefulness, appropriate form and location of a facility, together with a long-term and sustainable business model.