The Annual Pitt Lecture 2026: Marcus Ryder on Carnival at 60

An inspiring evening of reflection and celebration of the Windrush generation, held in honour of Lord David Pitt.

Join us for an inspiring evening of reflection and celebration at the Annual Pitt Lecture, a flagship event in Love Camden’s cultural programme.

Held in honour of Lord David Pitt, whose legacy underpins Camden’s commitment to equality and justice, this year’s lecture reflects on Carnival as a powerful space for cultural expression, protest and joy.

Marking 60 years of the Notting Hill Carnival, we look back to its roots in Camden in 1959, when Claudia Jones and the West Indian Gazette organised Britains first Caribbean Carnival in response to racist attacks – recently memorialised with a Blue Plaque at Camden Town Hall.

We are delighted to welcome Marcus Ryder MBE as keynote speaker, offering insight into Carnival’s history, its deep connections to Camden, and its continuing influence on debates around inclusion, representation and storytelling across the UK.

We hope you’ll join us for what promises to be a thought‑provoking evening, celebrating the Windrush generation and honouring the enduring legacy of Lord Pitt.