In a bid to improve the diversity of London’s statues and landmarks, a new commission has been launched.
The new landmark commission is made up of 15-panellists who will help ensure the “rich and diverse” history of the Capital is “properly reflected around the city”, while also advising the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan on how to “raise public understanding behind existing statues, street names, building names and memorials”.
Among the panellists are actor Riz Ahmed, social rights activist Toyin Agbetu and historian Aindrea Emelife.
The launch of the commission comes after Black Lives Matter protestors called for the removal of statues of slave traders and figures associated with colonialism and racism last year.
However, City Hall have said that the commission has “not being established to preside over the removal of statues”.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “For far too long, too many Londoners have felt unrepresented by the statues, street names and building names all around them, and it’s important that we do what we can to ensure our rich and diverse history is celebrated and properly commemorated in our city.
“I’m delighted to bring together this inspiring group of leaders from across London to form the Commission for Diversity in the Public Realm. Each member brings with them great insight and knowledge that will help to improve the representation of our public landscape.”