‘Do not forget the things your eyes have seen. Rather tell them to your children, and your children’s children.’
(see Deuteronomy 4:1,5-9) )
In a 2022, in a BBC documentary about the identity of Wales called ‘Who do We Think We Are?’ the broadcaster Huw Edwards interviewed Gaynor Legal, a Butetown resident and the first Black Councillor in the country. She was being asked about the multicultural community that had been built up in the historic Tiger Bay area of Cardiff. ‘Is it fair to say that the heritage you represent has not been properly recognised?’ he asked. ’I think it was totally ignored,’ she replied, ’the powers that be saw it best to bury it, they didn’t see it as an asset… the history of this area has been totally erased with the developments.’
There is a well known phrase, that “History is written by the Victors.” History often tells a one sided view, forcing the victor’s narrative on the people, and even eradicating the experience, history and heritage of others. Moses reminded the people to remember, value and pass on for generations to come all the things they have seen and heard, so that the narrative of faith and the heritage of a whole people will continue to exist, be valued and passed on.
Each of us has a story to tell, and the experiences of whole communities are an important part of the narrative. It is their story to tell and an important one to hear.
PRAY FOR those who work to collect social history, and for a free and open telling and cherishing of a narrative that is truly representative of all people.
Our daily reflections for Lent focus on the many injustices which exist in our world, as we seek to connect our life of prayer to social justice, the Justice of God which Christ proclaimed. More resources are available at www.southcardiffministryarea.co.uk/just-lent
South Cardiff Ministry Area 