Doreen Lawrence speaks at special Southend event

Mrs Lawrence's son Stephen, 18, was murdered in a race attack in Eltham, south London in April 1993 and has since devoted her life to human rights and combating racial injustice.

She will be appearing at a special event being held at Southend Civic Centre in Victoria Avenue between 12 noon and 4pm.

Guest speaker Mrs Lawrence will be joined at the Civic by Amit Popat, who chairs the Southend Together Equalities Board.

The event has been arranged by the Black History Month Project Board which is made up of representatives from organisations across the borough in association with Southend-on-Sea Borough Council's Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Staff Forum.

In addition to the speakers there will be music and dancing demonstrations from Southend schoolchildren as well as exhibitions, poetry and tasty food.

The Council's Deputy Leader, John Lamb, said: "We are very honoured indeed to welcome our guests, who are in the forefront of issues of equality, diversity and integration.

"They will be describing the importance of Black History Month in today's world.

"Representatives of six schools will be in attendance and they will be having an audience with Doreen Lawrence, who is constantly campaigning for social justice. In addition, students from Belfairs High School will be filming the occasion.

"Members of many partner organisations throughout Southend are also coming along, but the event is also open to the public. As places are limited we urge anyone interested in attending to contact us at blackhistorymonth@southend.gov.uk or by calling the Strategy and Performance team on 01702 215000 ext 4862.

"There will be question and answer sessions with both of the speakers and also the chance to enjoy the displays and demonstrations on offer."