Still Breathing

‘A timely book and a conversation starter on race in Britain.’ Rachel Edwards, Author of Darling and Lucky

‘A timely book in a year that has made clear that Britain still has a very long way to go towards becoming the model of racial equality it aims to be.’ Kenya Hunt

‘Powerful and sometimes painful testimonies but they also provide uplifting and enriching experiences.’ Stephen Bourne

‘I’m so proud to hold this book in my hand. We are here in all our richness.’ Adjoa Andoh, Actor, Director

‘This book is such a moving read for everyone of all ages and races.’ Colin Jackson, CBE

‘A reinforcement of evocative truths that hurt and sting deeply but also empower tremendously.’ Sharon Duncan-Brewster

The whole world is watching.

25 May, 2020. George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, is killed in Minneapolis while being arrested. His death, witnessed by horrified bystanders, is captured on camera – and within hours has spread far and wide across social media.

We’re all bystanders now.

The protests that follow express shock, sorrow, and outrage. Because what’s happened, has happened before – away from witnesses and cameras. The story didn’t begin here, and this is not where it ends?

STILL BREATHING assembles a cast of 100 black voices to talk about their experiences of racism in Britain. Actresses Suzette Llewellyn (Eastenders) and Suzanne Packer (Holby City) are joined by musicians, Members of Parliament, poets, artists, athletes, civil servants, doctors, lawyers, and more.

Touching on Windrush and the workplace, race riots and reforms, these essays seek to educate, to bear witness – and to offer hope for a better future, in Britain and around the world.