6 days ago
Calling all history buffs and local legends! This weekend, one of Brixton’s most storied buildings is opening its doors, and trust us, you’re going to want to check it out.
The Brixton Advice Centre on Railton Road is stepping into the spotlight for the Open House Festival for the first time, and it’s ready to share its incredible past with the community.
This isn’t just any old building. The Brixton Advice Centre is one of only two spots in Lambeth boasting two blue plaques (the other being the iconic County Hall). The plaques celebrate two absolute trailblazers in the fight for racial equality: CLR James and Darcus Howe.
The first plaque was unveiled 20 years ago to honour CLR James—an author, campaigner, and all-round legend who lived, worked, and sadly passed away in Brixton. To mark the 20th anniversary of this blue plaque, the centre is throwing open its doors to celebrate!
And it doesn’t stop there. Last year, a second plaque was added in tribute to Darcus Howe, CLR James’ great nephew. Howe was a force to be reckoned with—a writer, broadcaster, and activist who fought for black rights for over 50 years. From representing himself at the Mangrove Nine trial to organising the 1981 Black People’s March, Howe’s legacy is immense.
On 14th and 15th September, the Brixton Advice Centre will be open from 10 am to 4 pm. Expect to hear from the brilliant Leila Hassan Howe, Darcus Howe’s widow, who will be speaking at the centre about the incredible work done by these activists and the history of the building. It’s your chance to learn more about the people who made Brixton what it is today!
And, it’s not just about the plaques. The centre has a strong connection to Olive Morris, a key figure in the squatter campaigns of the 1970s, and it remains the last publicly accessible building she squatted in.
Since 1996, the Brixton Advice Centre has been helping locals with everything from debt to housing issues. And it’s made a real difference. Just ask Nikky Catto, the chair of trustees, who turned to the centre when she was homeless. “Thanks to Brixton Advice Centre, I not only have a house, but I’ve had the same house for the last 20 years,” she says.
So, pop down, explore a piece of local history, and celebrate the people who made a difference. It’s all part of the Open House Festival, running until 22nd September.
