Arts Diverse-City will here Saturday 26th October 

Arts Diverse-City

Reclaiming Narratives: Black History Month with Arts Diverse-City

October marks the beginning of Black History Month in the United Kingdom, a time to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of Black people to British culture, history, and the economy. Too often, the stories of Black communities have been told through lenses that misrepresent, oversimplify, or overlook the rich and diverse experiences of those who lived them.

Under this year’s national theme of Reclaiming Narratives, we are called to take control of our stories, honor our heritage, and make sure our voices are heard.

In response, Arts Diverse-City, in collaboration with our valued partners, invites you to join us as we fully embrace this powerful theme! It’s time to celebrate our heritage and create space for our stories to be shared.

October & November Events Line-up

Throughout October and November, we have a fantastic array of events that aim to inspire, educate, and celebrate. Here’s what’s in store:

• Joint Churches Service of Praise and Thanksgiving
• Let’s Talk Awareness Sessions
• Games Night
• Sip and Create Night
• Film Showcase with Panel Discussions
• Day Trip to the Liverpool Slave Museum
• Curry Night to conclude the festivities!

We wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to Albert Gardiner from All Nations Community Centre, GFM, and the entire Arts Diverse-City team for making this incredible series of events possible.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect, celebrate, and reclaim our stories!
For full details of all events taking place in Gloucester and beyond, scan the QR code below

Events 

Film 

Welcome to Arts Diverse-City

Arts Diverse-City, operating as a (CIC), has a multifaceted mission…

Our primary focus is addressing the profound need for cultural diversity, inclusion, and heritage awareness within Gloucester's communities. We recognise that our city is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and histories, yet it's essential to ensure that every resident feels a sense of belonging and that their unique heritage is valued. Through our extensive range of artistic and cultural initiatives, we provide a safe and inclusive space where diverse voices can flourish.

Our support for diverse communities works by creating avenues for creative expression, storytelling, and shared experiences. We believe that the arts serve as a powerful medium to foster unity, encourage dialogue, and challenge stereotypes. By organizing workshops, performances, exhibitions, and educational activities, we allow individuals from different backgrounds to come together, appreciate one another's cultures, and build lasting connections. Our work extends beyond entertainment; it serves as a catalyst for social change, promoting cultural understanding, and celebrating the diverse tapestry that makes up Gloucester, and its surrounding area.

Arts Diverse-City Community Interest Company, with registration number 14119318, represents a significant milestone in our journey as a dynamic organization committed to fostering creativity, inclusivity, and raising awareness of critical social issues. This statement aims to articulate the rich history of The R S Collective, contextualise the emergence of Arts Diverse-City, and underscore our commitment to accurate reporting and compliance with relevant regulations.

The R S Collective, comprised of skilled individuals, coalesced with a shared purpose — to organise events to showcase fashion events that shed light on disability, mental health, elderly care, and cultural multiplicity. What began as a grassroots gathering, celebrating the diversity of unpaid carers, has flourished into a thriving hub for creativity within the Arts. Today, we proudly commemorate 10 years of organising impactful events in Gloucestershire.

In 2017, a transformative partnership between Diverse City and Forest Bathing, and support from Barnwood Trust laid the foundation for collaborative projects, aligning our mission with Gloucestershire communities and stakeholders. Subsequently, in 2019, a broader collaboration involving Diverse City, City Council, BBC radio, National Water Ways, GFM radio, Peel Centre, Gloucester BID, Art Shape, Strike Alight, Voices, Create Gloucestershire, individual artists, organisations, was established. These partnerships have fueled a multitude of ideas, and from past collaborative projects, creativity continues to thrive.

Since the 1990s, The R S Collective has been organising community events, stage shows, exhibitions and projects, all non-profit endeavors aimed at raising awareness within Gloucestershire's multicultural communities. Pioneering efforts in highlighting health issues such as Adult Health Sickle Cell and Thalassemia, Lupus, and MS, and opening doors to awareness on Downs Syndrome and learning needs, underscore our commitment to addressing critical health concerns.

In response to the evolving needs of our organisation, RSCollective took a strategic step in incorporating as a Private Company Limited by Guarantee without share capital, with Company Number 13795671 on December 12, 2021. This step laid the groundwork for the formal establishment of Arts Diverse-City, officially incorporated in May 2022 with registration number 14119318.

Arts Diverse-City is not merely a creative initiative; it is a manifestation of our collective vision, commitment to social impact, and dedication to promoting diversity and awareness. As we embark on this new chapter, we assure our stakeholders that Arts Diverse-City will be reported accurately, reflecting our organisation's history and complying with all relevant regulations.

Valerie Simms (Director Arts Diverse-City)

Events & Projects 

Statement for Flagship Changes in Waves Windrush 75 Event, June 22nd, 2023:

On June 22nd, 2023, we celebrated a pivotal moment in our community with the Flagship Changes in Waves Windrush 75 event.  by Arts Diverse-City community interest company (CIC).

Thanks to the generous support from Gloucester City Council, who granted us £500, alongside the backing from Gloucester BID with £500, and the invaluable contributions from Gloucester Waterways Museum with space, as well as the dedication of all those who lent their time and talents, our event came to life.

This event marked a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to foster diversity within the Docks, aiming to enrich our cultural tapestry, promote well-being, and raise awareness, especially in honor of Windrush 75. The support from Gloucester City Council underscores the growing recognition of the importance of cultural diversity and the necessity for initiatives like ours to nurture a more inclusive and vibrant community.

The presence and coverage by BBC Southwest and BBC Radio added to the resonance of our event, capturing its essence and spreading its message far and wide. The performances, including the captivating display by TwoCan Theatre that received resounding applause, along with the poignant presentations from esteemed individuals like poet Tony Brian and the heartfelt testimonials from Carlton Green, Linden Dennis, Joyce Green, and Tracey Thomas, illuminated the enduring significance of the Windrush legacy.

The event was further elevated by the spirited compere and skit by Donville Williams, as well as the mesmerizing dance performances, including the stirring rendition of "Wade in the Water" by Annet Richard-Binns and the soulful acapella rendition by Julia Eastwood.

Together, through music, dance, poetry, and testimonies, we united to celebrate our heritage, promote unity, and deepen cultural awareness within Gloucester. This event stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and shaping a more inclusive and harmonious future for all.

“Arts Diverse-City has been a game-changer for my business. The platform provided me with the opportunity to showcase my handmade pottery to a wider audience. The support and encouragement from the community have been invaluable. I highly recommend Arts Diverse-City to all artists and crafters.”

— Emily Johnson

Statement on the Evolution of RSCollective into Arts Diverse-City CIC

The journey of RSCollective, shaped by a passion for community engagement and inclusivity, has led us to a transformative evolution, culminating in the formal establishment of Arts Diverse-City Community Interest Company in May 2022, with registration number 14119318.

Recognizing the imperative to be more than just a festival and to embrace the broader spirit of community inclusiveness, the name "Diversity Festival" swiftly evolved into "Diverse-City." This shift in nomenclature encapsulates our commitment to being a welcoming space for all, fostering diversity, and embracing the rich tapestry of cultural backgrounds that make up our community.

Arts Diverse-City CIC is not merely a name; it represents a steadfast extended arm to community inclusion and well-being. Our initiatives have been instrumental in touching lives from diverse backgrounds, with a particular emphasis on addressing the unique needs of Black Culture.

Throughout our journey, Arts Diverse-City has spearheaded impactful projects that raise awareness and celebrate cultural heritage. Notable among these projects include "Changes in Waves Windrush 75," a poignant event held at the historic Gloucester Docks in June 2022. Additionally, we have been at the forefront of organizing International Women events for the past five years at the All Nation Community Centre, a vital hub owned by the community.

Our commitment to fostering awareness extends to Black History Month, marked by talks, exhibitions, and exhibits that delve into the rich tapestry of Black history and culture. The Guildhall Centre in the heart of the city has been a prominent venue for our performances, showcasing the talents of local artists and engaging with the community.

We take pride in collaborating with amazing organizations and artists who have enriched our journey. Special gratitude goes to Soh-Fit, Lela Thomas, Icilda's Kitchen, Selinna Juke, Isobel Edward, Jay Ray, Leanne Parnell, Julia Eastwood, Donville Williams, and Annet Richard-Binns. Their unwavering support has been integral to the success of Arts Diverse-City.

As we continue to grow and evolve, Arts Diverse-City remains committed to being a beacon of creativity, inclusion, and community impact. We look forward to further engaging with our community, nurturing partnerships, and creating meaningful experiences that celebrate the diversity and cultural richness that define Arts Diverse-City.