Afua Hirsch, a writer and film-maker, argues that the campaign to sack Misan Harriman as chair of London's Southbank Centre is part of a broader assault on black figures in public life. In a piece for The Guardian, she draws parallels between the attacks on Harriman and the tactics of far-right figures like Tommy Robinson.
Parallels with Far-Right Tactics
Hirsch recalls meeting Tommy Robinson a decade ago during his failed attempt to mainstream Islamophobia with the Pegida movement. Robinson's comment that she was 'all right' because she 'speaks English' and is 'like us' exemplifies a mindset where rightwing men decide which black and brown Britons are acceptable. This sentiment, Hirsch argues, has gained strength, culminating in Robinson's recent calls for 're-migration'—a euphemism for ethnic cleansing.
Targeting Misan Harriman
Harriman, an Oscar-nominated filmmaker and photographer, has been chair of the Southbank Centre since 2021. His work includes powerful images of Black Lives Matter protests and Holocaust survivors, emphasizing unity against hate. A group of rightwing white men, using establishment media, is now calling for his removal. Critics question his expertise in classical music, citing his private school education but lack of interest in performing arts. They also highlight his friendship with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and his criticism of Israel.
Broader Agenda
Hirsch notes that historian Lord Roberts of Belgravia, a defender of empire and critic of 'cancel culture,' endorsed the attacks. This suggests a broader campaign to discipline cultural institutions that embrace diverse perspectives. Harriman's detractors also conflate his critique of Israel with antisemitism, misrepresenting his comments about Reform UK's electoral success and the Golders Green attacks.
Impact on Black Leaders
Hirsch warns that this campaign sends a forbidding message about who is fit to lead in UK culture. As The Voice noted, it is 'reputational warfare' rather than accountability. The message is clear: black figures in high-profile roles can be removed if they step out of line. Amnesty International has denounced the smears, and a campaign supporting a complaint to Ipso about the Telegraph's coverage has over 100,000 signatures.
