The Black community as a percentage of the population is Black African 11,606 (1.2%) and Black Caribbean 44,770 (4.7%).
Before the 1960s, immigrants from Africa and the Caribbean made up the largest population of non-white residents, with the highest percentage originating from the Caribbean, in particular Jamaica. Inevitably, suspicion and attitudes of the time led to large numbers of the Black population seeking solidarity by living in inner-city areas such as Handsworth and Soho. Social issues and policy decisions also ensured that many immigrants ended up in sub-standard housing in these districts.
Thankfully, attitudes have changed and whilst racial tension still exists in certain pockets of society, Birmingham has been fortunate to put the troubles of the Handsworth riots of 1985 behind it.
Afro-Caribbean arts, music and cuisine add to the flavour of this multicultural city as it continues to move towards greater tolerance and social integration.
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