Each year, on November 11th, the United Kingdom comes together to honor Remembrance Day, a solemn event dedicated to remembering those who lost their lives in the world wars and other conflicts. But beyond the British Isles, the observance of Remembrance Day resonates with diverse communities, including African families in Surrey and Sussex. For members of the Africa Community in Surrey and Sussex (ACISS), this day provides an opportunity not only to honor the fallen but also to reflect on the often-overlooked contributions of African soldiers and their descendants.
The legacy of African involvement in British wars stretches back to World War I, when an estimated two million African soldiers and laborers were enlisted from across the continent to fight in European and African theaters. These soldiers faced grueling conditions, from unfamiliar terrains to scarce supplies, while contributing significantly to the British war effort. The involvement of African soldiers in the war redefined their sense of identity and connection with the Commonwealth, a shared history still felt by their descendants in Surrey, Sussex, and beyond.
In 2024, as the world grapples with new conflicts and geopolitical changes, the themes of unity, and sacrifice from past wars feel ever more relevant. For Africans in the UK, Remembrance Day is not merely about commemorating British history but about recognizing the intertwined fates of British and African lives across decades. Through ACISS initiatives, the African community in Surrey and Sussex actively participates in local Remembrance events, bringing forward the stories and legacies of African soldiers who fought in both World Wars. This year, ACISS has planned several outreach activities.
Remembrance Day 2024 will likely see an increased acknowledgment of African contributions, as awareness grows around the Commonwealth’s shared sacrifices. Yet, for ACISS, the commemoration goes beyond history; it is about nurturing a sense of belonging in a multicultural UK. By actively participating in Remembrance services, ACISS members convey a powerful message—that their heritage, shaped by both African and British identities, deserves recognition and respect. This dual identity, celebrated by families and individuals at remembrance gatherings, enriches the collective memory shared by British society.
For younger generations within ACISS, Remembrance Day serves as a learning moment. It provides an occasion to reflect on African history, which is often excluded from mainstream war narratives, and to honor the endurance and bravery of African forebears. It also fosters a sense of pride and resilience, reminding young Africans in Surrey and Sussex of their profound cultural legacy. ACISS continues to promote these stories through educational initiatives, encouraging schools and local organizations to include African soldiers’ contributions in their Remembrance Day programs.
At a time when immigration and identity are hotly debated topics in the UK, Remembrance Day serves as a reminder that African communities have long-standing, deeply rooted connections with Britain. For ACISS, the act of remembrance is also an act of affirmation—of their rightful place within the British narrative and their ongoing contributions to society. In celebrating Remembrance Day 2024, ACISS not only honors the past but forges a stronger, inclusive future for Africans in the UK.
The message of Remembrance Day—of courage, resilience, and shared purpose—is universal, transcending cultural and national boundaries. As ACISS commemorates this day, it fosters a broader understanding and respect for African heritage within Surrey and Sussex’s multicultural landscape. For those who attend Remembrance events or participate in discussions, this day underscores the interwoven histories and sacrifices that define modern Britain.
This Remembrance Day, ACISS invites the wider public to join in acknowledging the integral role Africans have played and continue to play in the UK’s story. By bringing their perspectives to the forefront, ACISS strengthens the bonds within Surrey and Sussex communities and enriches the nation’s commemoration of a shared legacy that goes beyond borders.