Kala Sangam - Bringing people together through South Asian and Interdisciplinary Arts

We Were There at Kala Sangam

24th January 2012

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We Were There exhibition celebrates the significant role of ethnic minorities in Britain's armed forces this week at Kala Sangam

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WE WERE THERE EXHIBITION LAUNCHES AT KALA SANGAM

Celebrating diversity and the significant role Britain’s ethnic minorities have, and continue to play in the defence of the country, the We Were There exhibition launched today at Kala Sangam.

The exhibition, which is open to the public from 25th to 27th January, documents the last 250 years of our military heritage from the late eighteenth century, both World Wars through to the modern day.

The event will be officially launched on 24th by Lance Corporal Johnson Beharry VC and local dignitaries. Originally from Grenada, Lance Corporal Beharry joined the British Army in 2001 enlisting into the Princess of Wales’ Royal Regiment. He is the first person to receive the Victoria Cross since 1982 and the first non-posthumous member of the British Forces since the 1960s to be awarded the medal for bravery.

Commenting on the importance of the exhibition, Lance Corporal Beharry says: “In the Army you’re a soldier first and foremost. Your race, religion or gender doesn’t come into it. You’re there to do an important job and everyone is equal. The We Were There exhibition helps highlight this, as well as recognising the contribution made by different countries, cultures and communities in keeping Britain safe.

“One thing that I noticed when I first saw the exhibition was the number of untold, yet amazingly brave and courageous stories the Armed Forces can tell. It’s truly an inspirational exhibition with so many people’s tales to respect and admire.”

Lance Corporal Beharry’s story is just one of a great number to be included in the exhibition and his experiences will be recorded against such important historical figures as, the female secret agent who earned the George Cross, Noor Inayat Khan, a Lieutenant who fought in the trenches and played professional football, Walter Tull and front line ‘doctress’ from the Crimean War, Mary Seacole.

Entry into the exhibition is free for anyone who has a keen interest in military history or gaining an insight into their own ethnic heritage.

Army Community Liaison Officer for the region, Warrant Officer Class Two Dave Sado adds: “We Were There aims to provide surprising and interesting information on unique areas of Britain’s military history, as well as helping to promote a better understanding for people of all ages about their communities within the Armed Forces.

“We’re delighted to mark the launch of the event alongside Lance Corporal Beharry. He’s a true inspiration to all and testament to the courage shown by our ethnic minority soldiers not only of today, but also those of the past.”

We Were There is open at Kala Sangam in Bradford from 25th to 27th January from 9.30am to 3pm. Entry is free to the general public, schools and colleges throughout the period. And for organised group visits transportation is available.

More information about the exhibition can be found by searching We Were There North on Facebook.

All media enquiries should be directed to Sarah Learoyd or Natasha Stone on 01943 48 48 48 or email sarah.learoyd@golleyslater.co.uk / natasha.stone@golleyslater.co.uk