The story of the historic trial at the Old Bailey in London has its beginnings at the Mangrove restaurant, a popular Caribbean venue in Ladbroke Grove, London. It was opened in 1968 by Trinidadian activist Frank Crichlow and became a hub for members of the black community and Black Power activists.

By the early 1970s, the restaurant had been repeatedly raided by police. Eventually,the incessant harassment resulted in the Mangrove March on 9 August 1970, with the demand ‘Hands off the Mangrove’. Black Panthers and prominent members of the black community took part in the protest. The 150 protesters were policed by 500 police and the ensuing violence led to the arrest of nine black leaders: Barbara Beese, Rupert Boyce, Frank Crichlow, Rhodan Gordon, Darcus Howe, Anthony Innis, Altheia Jones-LeCointe, Rothwell Kentish and Godfrey Millett.

The nine protesters were tried at the Old Bailey on 29 charges ranging from incitement to riot to having an offensive weapon. The trial lasted 55 days, finishing in December 1971. All were cleared of the main charge of inciting a riot, while Rupert Boyce, Rhodan Gordon, Anthony Innis and Altheia Jones-LeCointe received suspended sentences for lesser offences.

The trial was highly significant for the Black struggle in Britain as it brought attention to the brutality and racism in the Metropolitan Police and led to the first official acknowledgement of ‘racial hatred’ in the force.

Producers ; Franco Rosso and John La Rose

Publisher ; GPI