The OBV Story

Established in 1996, Operation Black Vote (OBV) is a renowned institution in the UK, committed to catalysing a profound transformation in democratic representation spanning over three decades. The idea for OBV originated in December 1995, following a series of controversial Black deaths in police custody in the London Borough of Lambeth.

OBV was founded through collaboration with Charter 88, a constitutional reform group, and the 1990 Trust, a prominent Black charity of its time. Though no longer in existence, these organisations have left enduring legacies through OBV.

The inaugural founding board of Directors, formed in 1998, included key figures such as Pam Giddy, Director of Charter 88; Kumar Murshid, Tower Hamlets Councillor and Cabinet member; Rita Patel, Director of Belgrave Baheno women’s organisation and then Board Member of 1990 Trust; Lee Jasper, the then Director of the 1990 Trust and chair of Mangrove Community Association. David Weaver also served as support and advisor from the 1990 Trust Board.

Currently, the OBV board consists of David Weaver (Chair), Rita Patel (Vice-Chair),Meena Dhobi, Kiran Kala & Janhoi McGregor

We believe Britain must emerge into a 21st-century multicultural democracy grounded in respect for human rights, equality and justice for all. We do so by safeguarding democratic and human rights, advancing race equality, and deepening democratic practice within African, Asian, and Caribbean heritage communities. Through collective and deliberative efforts, we will promote a culture of open democracy and political engagement.

We will collaborate with others to challenge systemic racism in the UK. We will actively engage with global African, Asian, and Caribbean communities develop Black political agency and empowerment.

Our mission is to amplify Black voices in the debate about how to build a more equitable tomorrow in a society founded on accessible citizenship, judicial rights, racial justice, equality, and fairness.