Newham Council’s eviction of the Hibiscus Community Centre has been paused following an elderly trustee’s four-day occupation of the building and community groups’ protests.
The council is now in negotiations with the Hibiscus Caribbean Elderly Association (HCEA), who run the centre.
The Office for the Mayor of Newham told a Hibiscus member: “The Mayor has taken the decision to immediately pause the eviction process at the Hibiscus Centre and work with the Cabinet to find an equitable solution to the ongoing issues at the site.
“The Mayor remains absolutely committed to ensuring the centre is safely and appropriately managed in a way that ensures it remains open for community use.”
HCEA and their supporters are hosting a fundraiser on Saturday 13 June to keep the Caribbean community resource going.
Michael Grierson, who is the great nephew of Lucel Tate, co-founder of the HCEA, has also requested that some of Newham Council’s £900,000 grant – awarded partially on the basis of Tate’s reputation – should go towards keeping his great aunt’s legacy alive.
He shared on Instagram: “My family is proud that Lucel’s work continues to be remembered and honoured. However, I am concerned by reports regarding the future of the Hibiscus Caribbean Elderly Association and the community services that grew from her vision.
“Lucel’s legacy was built upon community action, inclusion, dignity and support for older people. I hope any project undertaken in her name reflects those principles and supports the communities she worked so hard to serve.”
This weekend’s Hibiscus fundraiser is expected to include DJs, food, music, and raffle prizes from local independent businesses.
Featured image credit: Stand up to Racism
Join the discussion