Remembering H.I.M: Celebration of Haile Selassie I's Civic Visit to Bristol
About this event
Join us for an unforgettable evening as we commemorate the 70th anniversary of Emperor Haile Selassie's historic state visit to Bristol in 1954. This special event, hosted by the Bristol Legacy Foundation in partnership with the Royal British Legion and Fairfield House, celebrates the profound legacy of H.I.M Haile Selassie I, Emperor of Ethiopia, and his enduring connection with the city of Bristol and the Royal British Legion.
Haile Selassie’s exile in the UK from 1936 to 1941, including his residence in Bath, forged strong bonds with British organisations, most notably as the Patron of the Royal British Legion branch in Bristol. His daughter, Princess Tsehai, also served as a nurse during World War II, further deepening these ties. This event not only honors their contributions but also highlights the bravery of servicemen and women from diverse communities who have shaped our shared history.
The evening will feature a rich program, including live performances by African drummers and a poet, insightful talks from key figures such as representatives from the MOD Rastafarian Network and Fairfield House, and a delicious buffet dinner to conclude the event.
This celebration is a part of the Royal British Legion's commitment to honoring the African Heritage Community in Bristol and supporting the Unified Campaign of Commemoration and Reparations. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of integrating Black history into the broader narrative of Bristol’s past, ensuring that the diverse contributions of all communities are recognized and remembered.
Agenda
5:00 - 5:15 pm: Drumming Trio Performance Led by Norman 'Rubba' Stephenson
5:15 - 5:30 pm: Welcome by BLF Chair (Former Deputy Mayor of Bristol, Asher Craig)
5:30 - 6:15 pm: Panel discussion featuring Ras Benji (Fairfield House), Dr Shawn Naphtali Sobers (BLF/UWE), the Ministry of Defence Rastafarian Network, Richard Stokes and Asher Craig (BLF Chair). Facilitated by BLF Trustee, Jendayi Serwah.
6:15 - 6:25 pm: Break
6:25 - 6:30 pm: Poetry Performance
6:30 - 6:40 pm: Drumming performance by Fairfield House's Nyabinghi drummers
6:40 - 7:30 pm: Buffet dinner by Nadine's Caribbean Cafe
We will need four volunteers for fire safety and stewarding. If you are:
Over 18
Interested in racial justice
Passionate about African reparations
Based in Bristol
Please sign up here: https://forms.gle/FsQBrBuYBQAEJyqKA
Accessibility at Circomedia
Wheelchair and Step-Free Entrance
We have ramped access to our auditorium and level access to our toilets. If you require a wheelchair space or step-free access to your seat in our auditorium then please let us know in advance of the performance. Simply give us a call on 0117 924 7615 or email boxoffice@circomedia.com.
Wheelchair and step-free access can be found at our side entrance. We use What 3 Words to give you an exact location on a map. Follow the link below to find this entrance.
Side Entrance Exact Location: https://what3words.com/mostly.ledge.chop
Main Entrance: Stepped Access
For performances, our main double doors serve as the principal entrance. This entrance consists of three steps up to the Box Office foyer, and three further steps up to the main building. We use What 3 Words to give you an exact location on a map. Follow the link below to find this entrance.
Main Entrance Exact Location: https://what3words.com/total.offer.native
Parking
There is metered parking available around Portland Square (charges apply 24/7). Alternatively, there is a nearby NCP car park and parking in Cabot Circus shopping centre