October 30th, 2022.



Speakers called for better provision for the health needs of people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority communities at a Newhaven event held last Sunday, the 23rd of October. Run by local Labour Party members as part of Black History Month, the lively and well-attended event was titled Black Health Matters.

It was pointed out that these groups suffer disproportionately from serious health issues, including covid deaths. The relationship between health problems and the increased proportion of deprivation among BAME communities was also discussed.

Speakers included Dr Palo Almond, an immunisation clinical lead, artist and Labour Party member. Brighton poet Priss Nash also performed. Ironically, Melba Wilson OBE, a black activist and mental health campaigner, who was due to speak at the event, was not able to be there as she had covid. Her speech was read by one of the organisers.

The event took place at the Hillcrest Community Centre and was organised by the Lewes Constituency Labour Party BAME group, along with their Black Lives Matter Study Group. It was chaired by Alex Mthobi, who is Chair of Lewes Labour BAME group. Frances Hasler, Chair of Seaford, Newhaven and Alfriston Labour Party organised discussion groups and summed up. Greetings cards designed by Dr Almond were on sale.