The history and significance of the Black Women’s Co-operative, later known as Abasindi, and its links to The People’s Centre on St Mary’s Street in Moss Side in key to Manchester’s Caribbean people in the 1970s and 1980s. The Black Women’s Co-operative was created by Black women in 1977 to respond to community needs that were often ignored by mainstream services. It offered mutual support, education, cultural activities, youth provision, advocacy, family advice services, immigration campaigning and practical help for African and African-Caribbean communities.
Abasindi, founded in 1980, grew out of the Manchester Black Women’s Co-operative and became an important community resource centre during the 1980s. Based at the Moss Side People’s Centre, it provided programmes that strengthened confidence, cultural identity, learning and community cohesion. Its work showed how Black women organised collectively to challenge racism, support families and create opportunities for future generations.
Elouise Edwards was one of the key figures associated with Abasindi. Born in British Guiana, she moved to Manchester in the 1960s and became a major community activist and civil rights campaigner. Her work included housing projects, women’s networks, immigration campaigns, medical and welfare support, and arts and cultural programmes. Her archive preserves records of Abasindi and related organisations, helping ensure this history remains visible.
Kath Locke was another important figure. She and her sisters helped establish the Manchester Black Women’s Co-operative in 1975, and she later co-founded Abasindi in 1980. Through Abasindi, Locke helped build educational and cultural programmes for local African and African-Caribbean communities.
Overall, Abasindi represents a powerful legacy of Black women’s leadership, grassroots activism and community empowerment in Manchester. The People’s Centre remains a reminder of this history, and the building now houses Rekindle School, continuing its role in supporting young people and the wider community.
