Alumni news
University of Sussex celebrates and supports the Brighton BASH Carnival
By: Bud Johnston
Last updated: Tuesday, 15 July 2025
Brighton BASH Carnival poster
Carnival committee group photo
steel pan band
The Brighton BASH Carnival, taking place on Saturday 26 July at St Ann's Well Gardens, is a major event on the city’s cultural calendar, bringing together artists, performers, activities, and families in a vibrant display of heritage, music, food, storytelling, and resistance. As part of our ongoing commitment to equity, cultural recognition, and community connection, the University’s involvement reflects our broader mission to learn from and improve the experiences of Black individuals with the University.
Our participation in the Carnival aligns directly with the goals of the Black at Sussex initiative — a five-year programme to improve the experience, visibility, and outcomes for Black staff and students at Sussex. By supporting events like the BASH Carnival, we’re not only championing cultural celebration, but actively affirming our role in dismantling systemic barriers and fostering inclusive spaces, both within and beyond campus.
“The Brighton BASH Carnival is more than just an event — it’s a cultural archive in motion, a living expression of pride, resilience and unity,” said Bud Johnston, Project Lead for Black at Sussex. “We are proud to show up not just in words, but in presence and practice.”
This year, the University supported several workshops targeted at school children and families. Black at Sussex also has a stand at the carnival in which students will be sharing more infomration about the Black at Sussex initiative and promoting the opportunities for collaboration.
On the day of the carnival attendees can expect;
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Community-led storytelling and performance curated in collaboration with dozens of Brighton's Black talented musicians, dancers, poets, artists and alike.
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Showcasing of Black at Sussex projects such as the upcoming Blacademia event, alumni portraits and childrens workshops.
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Music, food and culture that would be expected at a carnival celebration.
Black at Sussex's committment to supporting the carnival marks a new chapter in how we collaborate. Black at Sussex has formed promising local relationships this academic year and the plan is to expand to national in 2025/26.
We recognise that festivals like the Brighton BASH Carnival are vital in carving out space for joy, recognition, and resistance. The University of Sussex is honoured to be part of that journey.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to nurturing deeper collaboration with local Black communities and ensuring that the spirit of BASH — building alliance, solidarity and hope — are woven into the fabric of how we learn, lead, and live at Sussex.
For more information on the carnival, to register for FREE tickets or to support in any way please visit www.brighton-barco.org.
Further information: www.brighton-barco.org