Seeking the Pioneers Exhibition Returns This February: A Celebration of Resistance and Stories That Matter
The powerful and inspiring Seeking the Pioneers: Routes to Resistance exhibition returns this February and will run from 2 February until the end of March 2026 at the Library of Birmingham foyer. Curated by Mukhtar Dar and the Birmingham Race Impact Group (BRIG), and funded by National Lottery players, the exhibition celebrates the remarkable stories of individuals and communities who have fought racism and injustice across Birmingham over the past eight decades. Following a successful opening in October, this thought-provoking showcase comes back with renewed energy and new opportunities for visitors to engage with Birmingham’s heritage.
At its core, Seeking the Pioneers tells the stories, struggles, and achievements of more than 80 individuals and groups who have challenged racism and injustice from the 1940s to the present day. Through engaging narratives, pictorial displays, and rich historical context, the exhibition traces the diverse routes of resistance taken by individuals and communities. It not only highlights well-known moments and figures but also sheds light on lesser-known voices whose contributions have been just as important in the journey towards equality and justice in the city.
Visitors are encouraged to explore these stories in depth, gaining insight into the resilience, courage, and creativity that have driven the ongoing fight for racial justice. A key feature of this year’s return is a series of interactive walking tours led by BRIG’s Heritage Development Officer, Ibrar Hussain. These tours aim to provide a more immersive experience of the exhibition, offering historical context, interpretation, and space for reflection and discussion. The tours will run throughout February and March, with dates on 5 February, 19 February, 5 March, and 19 March, between 1pm and 4pm.
Through these sessions, visitors can ask questions, hear expert insights from pioneers themselves, and reflect on how the stories on display relate to contemporary issues.
In addition to the exhibition and guided tours, BRIG is also offering another run of its Race History Detective course on 21-22 February. The programme has continued to develop and improve, and BRIG hopes participants will appreciate this updated version. The course equips participants with practical skills in research, oral history, community engagement, storytelling, and the use of recording equipment. Aspiring history detectives will learn how to identify lesser-known local pioneers, conduct interviews, capture stories, and contribute to preserving Birmingham’s rich heritage of activism. If you would like to register for the course, please click here.
The course is ideal for students, community historians, activists, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of race history through practical experience. By training the next generation of researchers, BRIG aims to pass on the knowledge and ensure that these important stories continue to be uncovered and shared with new audiences.