The Peace Museum Launches New Exhibition Inspired By Peaceful 'Carnival' Protest Organised By Bradford Residents 50 Years On.

The Peace Museum is excited to announce the opening of its summer exhibition Tactical Frivolity: Joy in Resistance. The exhibition explores the ways people have used creativity, absurdity and humour as a method and tactic in peaceful protests.

Highlighting examples of tactical frivolity from across history and around the world, the exhibition is inspired by local events that took place 50 years ago this month.

“On 19th June 1976, a group of people in Bradford came together to defend their community against the National Front by organising a ‘carnival sit-down' protest.” Said Dr Áine McKenny, Exhibition Curator.

“Adorned with teddy bears, costumes and balloons, they chose to counter hatred with solidarity and silliness. These peaceful protests in Bradford and their ethos are at the heart of our exhibition. Fifty years on, as communities navigate division and hostility once again, this story feels more relevant than ever. We hope that visitors leave the exhibition with a sense that joy and humour are effective ways to stand up for your community and for what you believe in.”

The exhibition showcases objects from the museum's own collection as well as items on loan from Bradford LGBTQ+ Archive and the personal archives of local activists. One of the activists from the Manningham demonstrations

Dusty Rhodes, one of the original activists from the demonstrations in Manningham, says: “As I look at the state of testosterone fuelled nonsense that passes for international diplomacy today, we should be proud to have played a part in trying to find other playful, non-violent ways to deal with community tensions. This exhibition reminds me and should inspire us to continue our efforts and gladdens my heart! Sous les paves, la plage! (Beneath the paving stones, there's a beach).”

Visitors can also view rare footage of the carnival demonstration, on loan from the Yorkshire Film Archive, which was originally filmed by West Yorkshire Police as part of their efforts to gather evidence against local activists.

A programme of events will run alongside the exhibition throughout the summer, and visitors young and old can enjoy craft activities and dressing-up opportunities inspired by playful tactics used by peace movements.

Tactical Frivolity: Joy in Resistance is open now and runs until Sunday 30th August at The Peace Museum, Salts Mill, with free entry. For more information, please visit www.peacemuseum.org.uk.