The History of Black Muslim Converts: Uncovering a Hidden Legacy

While the lives of 18th-century Black Christian converts like Olaudah Equiano, Ottobah Cugoano, and Francis Barber are widely documented, the stories of their Muslim counterparts remain largely invisible in mainstream historical narratives. This eye-opening lecture with Dr. Abdul Haqq Baker seeks to correct that imbalance.

Drawing on original research and lived experience, Dr Baker will explore the untold stories of Black British Muslim converts—past and present—highlighting their contributions, identities, and impact within British Islam. The session aims to give visibility to a marginalised segment of the Muslim population whose presence has too often been overlooked in both historical scholarship and contemporary discourse.

Dr. Abdul Haqq Baker, former Chairman of Brixton Mosque and Lecturer in Terrorism Studies at the University of St Andrews, brings a unique perspective shaped by decades of community leadership and academic insight. He now leads STRAP UK, a consultancy exploring decolonised approaches to health and social research in underserved communities. He will be joined by Shaykh Bilal Brown, managing director of New Beginnings, a UK-based organisation dedicated to working with converts to Islam, new Muslims, and those exploring Islam.

This event is part of the Muslim LitFest. Find the full programme here: tickettailor.com/events/muslimlitfest25

Image courtesy of everydaymuslim.com