The Beginning ofThe Nello James Foundation
A story rooted in protest, shaped by education and sustained by community care in Manchester.
A Legacy Born from Action
In 1967, the West Indian United Association (WIUA), the forerunner to the Nello James Centre, was formed as a protest movement of Black people against police brutality, which at that time was commonly experienced by young African Caribbean men. It developed as a social and political attempt to address the community’s problems at source through its own efforts.
Taking inspiration from the writing and teachings of CLR “Nello” James, the Guyanese writer and broadcaster was invited to become Honorary President of the WIUA and later the Nello James Centre. CLR James spoke and lectured in Manchester on many occasions and regularly visited members of the organisation.
When the WIUA took up residence at Walton Cottage, 136 Withington Road, Manchester, in 1970, the group re-formed simply as the Nello James Centre. In May 1971, the Walton Cottage Education Trust was established, with the ultimate purpose of opening and running a community-focused infant day nursery for pre-school children.
The range of activities at the Nello James Centre rapidly became an integral and essential part of the West Indian community and was open to everyone. Over time, the Centre became known for education, welfare, childcare, housing, cultural activity and community support.
The First Trustees
The work of the Trust was initiated mainly, though not exclusively, by radical Black activists who were appointed as the first trustees.
- Alton Pascoe
- Wilberforce Johnson
- George McCorkle
- Roy Blackman
- Niel Pearson
- Wilda Grant
- Barry Reeves
- Barry Coleman
- Felix Daniel
- Allsman Stanley
- Vaneta Johnson
A Gift that Helped Build a Centre
Thanks to the generosity of the well-known actress and activist Dame Vanessa Redgrave, the Centre was donated to the care of the Trust for use by the underprivileged West Indian community in Manchester.
It became a place for meetings, educational activity and social events, especially for children and young people, and remained an important community venue for over 30 years.
Learn More About Our Legacy
Explore the wider history of the Centre, its services and its impact across Manchester.