A unique summer exhibition exploring the power of humour in peaceful protests has officially opened at a popular local museum. The Peace Museum is welcoming visitors to its new collection titled Tactical Frivolity: Joy in Resistance. The fascinating exhibition looks at the creative ways people have used absurdity and silliness as a tactic to stand up for what they believe in.
Inspired by Bradford Events
The project is inspired by remarkable local events that took place exactly 50 years ago this month in Bradford. Dr Áine McKenny, from The Peace Museum, said: 'On 19th June 1976, a group of people in Bradford came together to defend their community against the National Front by organising a carnival sit-down protest. Adorned with teddy bears, costumes and balloons, they chose to counter hatred with solidarity and silliness.'
'These peaceful protests in Bradford and their ethos are at the heart of our exhibition. Fifty years on, as communities navigate division and hostility once again, this story feels more relevant than ever. We hope that visitors leave the exhibition with a sense that joy and humour are effective ways to stand up for your community and for what you believe in.'
Exhibition Highlights
Visitors can explore a variety of objects from the museum's own collection. The displays also feature special items on loan from the Bradford LGBTQ+ Archive and the personal archives of local activists. Local people can even view rare footage of the original carnival demonstration, on loan from the Yorkshire Film Archive. The historical footage was originally filmed by West Yorkshire Police as part of their efforts to gather evidence against local activists at the time.
Dusty Rhodes, one of the original activists from the demonstrations in Manningham, said: 'As I look at the state of testosterone fuelled nonsense that passes for international diplomacy today, we should be proud to have played a part in trying to find other playful, non-violent ways to deal with community tensions. This exhibition reminds me and should inspire us to continue our efforts and gladdens my heart! Sous les paves, la plage! (Beneath the paving stones, there's a beach).'
Family-Friendly Events
A family-friendly programme of events will run alongside the exhibition throughout the summer season. Visitors young and old can enjoy interactive craft activities and dressing-up opportunities inspired by playful peace movements. The exhibition is open now and runs until August 30, 2026, at The Peace Museum, based at Salts Mill. Entry to the museum is completely free for everyone. To find out more about the exhibition and upcoming summer events, you can visit the museum's website.
