Black History Month Panel Event: Black Silk October 2025

One of the hosts of the event, Jason Pitter KC, said by way of introduction: ‘The Inn had no hesitation in hosting this significant event, not just to highlight the past, which is obviously important for inclusion by the collective celebration of all of histories. It is also a part of our forward strategy aiming for equality, which includes the promotion of diversity through excellence by showcasing past and present black talent to inspire and encourage this and the next generation by demonstrating how success and excellence in the profession can be achieved, even in the face of adversity.’

Faith Osifo, a participant from the Inner Temple writes: ‘Following on from the huge success of last year’s inaugural Black Silk event, this year was even bigger and better. Hosted in the magnificent surroundings of Gray’s Inn, the evening was a powerful and uplifting night of reflection, insight and meaningful connection.

We celebrated and reflected on the legacies of two formidable Black barristers who have recently passed, Michael Hall and Dr Courtenay Griffiths. Tributes to Michael Hall’s kindness and generosity as a colleague and mentor to so many was a powerful reminder that people never forget the impact that you have on them. Similarly, the short video tribute to Dr Courtenay Griffiths left many in the room chuckling at his sharp wit and smiling fondly at his iconic tenacity as an advocate. Although, like many in attendance, I had never met either of them personally, the stories shared offered a vivid glimpse into their characters and left me inspired by their impact. That is the power of legacy.’

Master Anesta Weekes commented: ‘Courtenay Griffiths was the star of our celebrations for Black History month. Our audience beamed with pride to see and hear a short recording of Courtney’s legal submissions in the ‘Taylor case’ in West Africa. His voice, stature and spoken words filled the court room. His oral presentation was and remains second to none, in the Taylor case and in the UK courts’.

Faith continues: ‘The exceptional panel featured Icah Peart KC, Anesta Weekes KC, Martin Forde KC, Allison Munroe KC, Garry Green KC and Nneka Akudolu KC who all openly shared the highs and lows of their journeys to becoming silks. Across a range of different practice areas, a clear message remained consistent: Black excellence at the Bar must be amplified, not only to celebrate the achievements of those who have paved the way, but also to inspire others to recognise their own potential and believe that these spaces are theirs too’.

Garry Green KC added a comment: ‘Black Silk celebrates diversity both at the Bar and amongst the community of Black lawyers. My tip is stay true to yourself, authenticity is an amazing value which is to be celebrated’.

Icah Peart KC also added a comment: ‘Be persistent: you know your own worth, and you know yourself when the time is right for you to be appointed to the rank of silk—don’t let the views of others deter you’.

Faith continues: ‘In her resounding closing address Barbara Mills KC, outgoing Chair of the Bar Council, reflected on the progress achieved to date while candidly acknowledging the work that still lies ahead, particularly in light of there being no Black KCs appointed in 2025 despite the abundance of outstanding talent. Nonetheless, the room celebrated with warm applause the recent judicial appointment of The Honourable Ms Justice Obi, whose achievements will continue to inspire many.

This year, the attendees spilled out into the gorgeous Gray’s Inn dining hall where a drinks and food reception followed. Conversations deepened and connections grew over rum punch, jerk chicken and patties. The room was buzzing with old friends catching up and new relationships being formed across different practice areas and different generations. It was a vivid reminder that Black excellence is nurtured through community, connection and collective support especially by taking up spaces that have been historically exclusive. Black Silk 2025 was a phenomenal event to be a part of. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the amazing panellists and speakers, and the hosts Laurie-Ann Power KC and Jason Pitter KC who facilitated thought-provoking conversations and questions from the audience. Also, a huge thank you goes to Alex Taylor-Camara, Mark Robinson, Gray’s Inn and everyone else who helped make this special event come to life. We all look forward to next year as the legacy of the annual Black Silk event continues on!’

The Editor and Divya Kesar had hoped to attend this event and report on it for Graya News, but unfortunately both were temporarily incapacitated. Their attempts to attend on-line were then frustrated by technical issues. The event was so successful (bar the techincal issue) that the Inn is running it again and making it even bigger this year. We are most grateful to Faith Osipo, to Jason Pitter KC and Anesta Weekes KC, both Benchers of the Inn, and to the panel members quoted above for sharing their reflections on the evening.

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