The Life, Death and Legacy of David Oluwale. 1969. Leeds

David Oluwale was a British-Nigerian man who left Lagos to search for a better life in the UK at 19 years old. David came to Leeds to work in the textile and clothing industry, but an event in 1953 meant his name was known by both a brutal and racist Leeds police inspector and sergeant.
After a police attack saw David in an asylum for 8 years, his release into Leeds saw him homeless and subjected to brutality and ritual humiliation by the police. This culminated, in 1969, by David "falling" from Leeds Bridge to his death in the River Aire.
However, the police force would soon find themselves facing their own justice for the harassment, torture and manslaughter of David Oluwale.
A legal first in this country that opened discussions on racism. inequality, mental health and police practices, and today the community of Leeds remember the life and legacy of David Oluwale in stories, plays. artwork, gatherings, sculptures, and, most recently, the David Oluwale Bridge constructed in 2023.

[@petercopley1769]

An excellent biography The Hounding of David Oluwala by Kester Aspden Well worth a read

[@matparks08]

@petercopley1769 thanks Peter. 🙂👍

[@catherineloftus1376]

Tragic story. A while after Davids death Police did a house to house interviews of people in my street, asking if anyone had seen any activitiy in the the woods. It came to light later the police thought David had slept rough in the woods. David is burried in Kingbeck Cemetery, when we visit our families resting place we put a few flowers on his grave. David may your dear soul rest in peace. 🎉

[@matparks08]

Thanks for the info. It's always good to get a perspective from someone who was there when it happened. At least now, David is properly recognised. I don't imagine his grave will ever go without flowers again. All the best and thanks again

[@Carhern-gf7kp]

Just makes my blood boil, what is wrong with people??!!??

[@matparks08]

Crazy, isn't it, how cruel people can be 😔

[@ShaunMurray63]

When racism was rife and probably still is .

[@matparks08]

@ShaunMurray63 I'm.optimistic things have improved since then....but still about, definitely.