In light of the events over the past 2 weeks around the globe, there has been what can only be described as an unprecedented show of both physical and virtual solidarity for BAME communities the world over. Whilst many will say the U.K is ‘nowhere near as bad as the U.S’ we know in our hearts this is simply not good enough. We also acknowledge our own part in the pandemic that is racism.

Individual support, active community engagement and the dispelling of ignorance and hate are what is needed now. 

Since around 1860 some member of Lewes Bonfire have dressed in clothing and makeup designed to imitate Zulu culture. Change comes from within, and must be orchestrated by the community in which we live - it will then spread and society will better itself. In 2017, a petition was started to see the end to the blackface that was a key element to the costume.

Following the global change that is happening, we feel it is time for Lewes to join this social and political shift and for Bonfire to once again question the need for the imitation of Zulu culture.

Whilst we understand that complete blackface has been banned as of 2017/8, many do not think this goes far enough. 
This petition calls for the abolishment of the traditions of the Zulu costume competition, the black body stockings (which is essentially blacking up, but with fabric) and for the town council to intervene and halt the perpetuated mimicking/blacking up and appropriation of not only the Zulu culture but all POC. Allowing this to continue condones the negative stereotyping of people of colour, and continues to teach our children, whether directly or indirectly, that POC are available to be mimicked, even if ‘we don’t mean it in a racist way’. The tradition itself should be banned so members cannot hide behind excuses such as, 'these are coal smears' etc. 
We would like all societies to be vehemently opposed to any form of racism, and the eradication of any impersonation of POC, Zulu costume tradition included. 

It is also prudent to mention that those that feel it is important to imitate/impersonate or mimic POC should explain exactly why they believe it is necessary?

We call for The Town Council, the bonfire societies and the local MP to join the call for the immediate disbanding of these traditions. In stopping this tradition, Lewes will be able to say that it too is contributing to the eradication of racism in our society.