Gal-dem Magazine: A Vital Platform for UK’s African Minorities

The recent announcement of the closure of Gal-dem magazine has left a significant void in the hearts of many within the African and ethnic minority communities in the UK. The name “Gal dem,” as many are familiar with from dancing to Dancehall music, means “a group of girls” and pays homage to the founder, Liv Little’s Jamaican background.

Despite being bittersweet, the closure of this magazine has been a crucial platform for marginalized voices seeking representation and inclusion in mainstream media. Little’s significant impact on the magazine and its readership has been achieved by bringing together stories from different minority groups in the UK.

A Beacon of Hope for Marginalized Voices

Gal-dem has been and will remain a beacon of hope for many young African and ethnic minority people in the UK who have felt excluded and marginalized from mainstream media. The magazine, led by women from different cultural backgrounds, including Kemi Alemuro, who served as the cultural editor for a majority of the magazine’s lifespan.

The Impact of the Closure

The closure of Gal-dem has sparked disappointment and sadness among its readers and contributors. The magazine was a vital resource for connecting with others who shared similar experiences and backgrounds. From Uganda to Zimbabwe, the magazine showcased the robust modern Africa in full light. One story that particularly caught my eye was the story of Kampire, a Ugandan Nyegenyege DJ who ‘danced through political barriers’ in Africa, exposing the realities of being different while respecting African culture. Another notable piece was a critique of the hit TV show ‘Dear White People’ by Arenike Adebajo, a Nigerian-born writer in South London, which shed light on preconceived notions about Africa. Stories like these have left a mark on Gal-dem’s readers.

Liv Little’s Journey and Inspiration

Liv Little’s journey as the founder and editor of Gal-dem is relatable to many of us as we navigate the neocolonialist world. According to Liv, “I founded Gal-dem in 2015, during my final year of uni, as a direct response to a feeling of severe isolation and hopelessness that often comes with being the only person of colour in a room.” She then went on to serve as the CEO and later as the president of the board, taking a hands-on approach to strategize and lead the platform to showcase stories of minority groups in the diaspora. Her leadership has been an inspiration to many young African and ethnic minority people in the UK. Gal-dem provided a vital platform for marginalized voices seeking representation and inclusion in mainstream media, inviting publications and articles from minority groups living in the UK, centered around their experiences and stories while in the diaspora.

The Fight for Equality and Justice Continues

Despite progress in some areas, such as increased representation in the media and politics, many individuals still face discrimination and inequality on a daily basis. However, Gal-dem’s legacy continues to inspire and empower those who have been touched by its message. As stated by Little in her goodbye letter, “I hope that the end of Gal-dem is just the beginning of something bigger and better for all of us.”

Looking Ahead

The closure of Gal-dem should is not a reminder of struggle, but rather as a testament to “creating your own table” if you don’t get invited to theirs. Liv has left a lasting impression in people’s hearts that will forever be felt in the walls and spaces where minority groups are still marginalized.

The closure of Gal-dem may be the end of an era, but it is also an opportunity for new voices and perspectives to emerge. It is a chance for the fight for equality and justice to continue and for new platforms to emerge that empower marginalized voices. As we look ahead, we can take inspiration from Gal-dem’s legacy and continue to work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.