Beacon of hope
Designed by the world-renowned architect Sir David Adjaye, the memorial will act as a beacon of hope in the pursuit of equality, justice and truth.
Lee Lawrence, the son of Cherry Groce who witnessed his mother’s shooting at the age of 11, said: “The 35th anniversary of my Mum’s shooting is a poignant time for our community. Over the years and despite all odds, we as a community have never faltered in our pursuit for justice.
“And whilst we still face enormous challenges, coupled with the impact of a pandemic, our plans for the memorial remain firm. The memorial will serve as a living legacy to a woman who never doubted the power of truth nor the spirit of community. We believe it will both honour and inspire a community that seeks to live in harmony.”
Word from the Council Leader
Cllr Jack Hopkins, Lambeth Council Leader, said: “This is an important anniversary for our community, and a fitting memorial to Cherry Groce and we must use this as an opportunity to highlight her life story and to not forget our history and past events as we continue the fight for equality.
“Cherry’s shooting was a hugely traumatic incident, not only for her and her family, but the wider community and symbolised the broken relationship between the Police and the Black community not only here in Lambeth but also across the country. Despite the suffering experienced, her family have worked incredibly hard to create a lasting positive legacy in which this new memorial plays an important role for their generation and future generations.”
A GoFundMePage has been set up for donations towards the cost of constructing and installing the memorial. Visit www.gofundme.com/f/cherry-groce-memorial-in-honour-of-our-community for more information.
Word from Cabinet
Cllr Sonia Winifred, Lambeth’s Cabinet member for Equalities and Culture, said: “This council is committed to seeing this memorial in place because it is an important symbol of inclusion both for our communities, and wider society.
“In support of the Black Lives Matter campaign, I am leading an audit of all landmarks, statues and works of art in public spaces in Lambeth for their links to slavery, colonialism and the oppression of Black and Minority Ethnic communities.
“We must continue to educate, discuss and really deeply consider our public landmarks, statues and works of art and culture more widely. This memorial will stand in tribute to that objective as we honestly and transparently look at discrimination and its history.”
To find out more about the Cherry Groce Foundation visit www.cherrygroce.org/.
