L8 Activism Walking Tour

The L8 Activism Walking Tour invites you to take a stroll down the beautiful tree-lined Victorian Boulevard and explore the history of Liverpool 8, the traditional home of the black community since the mid 20th century. This tour charts the area’s development since it’s the origins as a merchant class neighbourhood in the mid-late 19th century, to dilapidation and multiple occupancy and back to one of the most desirable areas to live in 2024.

As the tour progresses, we cover the vibrant nightlife and culture of the 1950s and 60s and the black and anti-racist activism that developed throughout the 1970s and early 1980s and which responded to local and international issues. We consider the discrimination faced by Liverpool’s black community, which Lord Gifford in his enquiry into the causes of the 1981 uprisings, described as ‘uniquely horrific’ which brought worldwide media attention to the area. At the Rialto which, during the uprisings, was set ablaze, we view the area where battle lines were drawn and consider why certain buildings were targeted.

The L8 Activism Walking Tour culminates on the former site of the Liverpool 8 Law Center, an organisation which arose out of the ‘81 Uprisings and which played a key role in the support and empowerment of L8 and the black communities and then onto empty plinth where William Huskinson once stood. Join us to find out what happened to him and much more history that you won’t find in books.

Starting point: Princes Park North Gates, L8 3TA

End point: Former site of Huskinson statue, Princes Road, L8 1TH

*These are difficult times. We know some people may struggle to afford full price tickets. If you would like to attend this event but can't afford to, please contact [email protected]. All queries will be treated in confidence.

Host or Publisher Writing on the Wall