November 2023 marks 20 years since I’ve had the privilege of calling Soho “home”. And what a unique experience it has been to pretty much have my entire adulthood shaped through the lens of this vibrant neighbourhood. Soho, an area renowned for its pulsating energy, bohemian history, eclectic mix of people, and thriving artistic scene, has been a sanctuary for creative souls like myself. However, amidst the colourful façade of diversity that Soho boasts, there remains an underrepresentation and often an erasure of the voices and experiences of others like me: black women.
Where are all the Black Women in Soho?…
As a black female creative; founder and editor of My Soho Times, amongst other creative hyphenated titles, who has carved a niche for myself in a predominately white-middle-aged-male environment of CEOs and founders, I find myself questioning the lack of visibility of people of colour in decision-making spaces. Where are all the faces that resemble mine? Where are the stories of black women who have left an indelible mark on this neighbourhood? These questions linger in my mind and drive me to explore this issue more deeply.
Despite having various platforms to express my concerns, I often hesitate to speak out about race-related issues while I am still striving towards a level of stability that offers both financial and mental security. The fear of being pigeonholed, stereotyped as an angry black woman, or even alienating potential partners and advertisers discourages me from voicing my concerns, including the micro-aggressions I experience as a woman of colour. I constantly remind myself to “not rock the boat until I am on steady waters.”
Black History Month
Black History Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the voices of people African-heritage, and their allies. Instead of focusing on those who may feel threatened by discussions of oppression, I prefer to direct my energy towards honouring the legacy of black women in and around my community. This includes women and non-binary individuals of African descent, including those of mixed heritage who identify as black. I recognise that the term “Black” is a social construct and political term which historically encompassed all non-white individuals. In this context, however, I am specifically referring to individuals with visible African heritage and its associated physical characteristics, as race discrimination and oppression are often linked to these factors.
“This new series, Black Women in Soho, is an exploration of self through the women who came before me. It’s a celebration of the achievements and resilience of black women who have thrived and succeeded despite the odds.”
– Kai Lutterodt aka The Soho Girl
In this captivating series, “Black Women in Soho“, I will embark on a profound journey of self-discovery through the inspiring narratives of influential figures such as Mary Seacole, as well as the often overlooked contemporary trailblazers of today in Soho (and the surrounding West End neighbourhoods). Their stories deserve to be brought to the forefront, cherished, and celebrated.
Know of someone I should feature in this series? Please email kai@mysohotimes.co.uk
Written by Kai Lutterodt @the.soho.girl Share your thoughts in the comment box below!
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