Words by Amelia Jones
Betty Campbell, Wales’ first black headteacher, was a woman of resilience, passion, and unwavering determination. Numerous challenges marked her journey, and yet she remained steadfast in her pursuit of equality and education. Her legacy inspires generations, proving that bravery and perseverance can pave the way for meaningful change.
Born in 1934 in Tiger Bay, Cardiff, Campbell faced up to the societal expectations that sought to limit her ambitions. Despite being told that her dream of becoming a teacher was unrealistic, she refused to accept defeat. Instead, she pursued her education and training, eventually becoming the first black woman to lead a school in Wales. Her appointment was groundbreaking, not only as a personal achievement but also for the many students she inspired through her leadership.
Throughout her career, Campbell ensured that black history was an integral part of the curriculum. She educated her pupils about the rich cultural heritage of black communities in Wales and around the world, instilling a sense of pride and awareness that was often overlooked in mainstream education. Her commitment to representation and inclusivity made her a pioneer in education and social justice.
Campbell’s commitment to social justice extended far beyond the classroom. She worked with various organisations, including the Commission for Racial Equality, to advocate for policies that would create equal opportunities for all. She was also a key voice in local government, serving as a councillor in Cardiff. She understood that true change required action at every level, from the school corridors to the council halls.
A Tribute to Her Legacy
Campbell’s monumental contributions were commemorated with the unveiling of a statue in Cardiff in 2021. The sculpture, created by artist Eve Shepherd as part of the ‘Hidden Heroines’ campaign by Monumental Welsh Women, beautifully captures Campbell’s enduring legacy. Rather than taking centre stage, Campbell is depicted as a watchful presence, guiding and inspiring the children gathered around her. This powerful tribute reflects her lasting impact, ensuring that her story continues to inspire future generations.
Her story has had a profound impact on many, particularly those who, like her, faced adversity due to their race or background. For one poet, Taylor Edmonds, tasked with writing a piece to commemorate the unveiling of Campbell’s statue in 2021, her life was a source of deep inspiration.
Capturing Betty’s life and impact in a short poem was no easy task, but Edmonds embraced the challenge, seeing poetry as a means of storytelling. She carefully condensed extensive research, historical significance, and deep emotional resonance into a few poignant lines.
The result was a tribute that honoured Betty’s achievements while ensuring her legacy endures in the hearts and minds of those who hear her story. Edmonds reflected on Campbell’s fierce determination, her ability to overcome obstacles, and the work she did to pave the way for future generations.
As a mixed-race Welsh woman, Edmonds found a personal connection to her story, in her poem, she wrote: “I’ll tell my future daughters about Betty when I speak of bravery.” This was a section of the piece that meant a lot to her, “It emphasises the impact that I think her story can have on young girls’ self-belief and determination,” she said.
Bravery is an integral part of Campbell’s story, not just in her actions but in her steadfast belief in herself and her mission. In Edmonds’ tribute, she captured Betty as a ‘woman of firsts’ and a ‘trailblazer,’ someone who became stronger each time she was told she could not achieve something. This portrayal resonates with many who continue to fight for equal opportunities today.
Edmonds’ hope for younger generations to learn about Campbell’s story was fulfilled with the release of the Welsh Wonders book series, in 2023 they brought Betty Campbell’s life to young audiences, offering them a model of resilience, determination, and activism. These books highlight Campbell’s contributions, allowing children to learn about her journey and understand how she helped reshape the cultural and educational landscape of Wales.
Lasting Influence
Campbell’s influence endures today, not just in terms of personal connection but through initiatives like the Welsh Black Curriculum, which aims to ensure that the histories and contributions of Black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities are integrated into all aspects of learning.
Rather than focusing on individual events or figures, the curriculum seeks to provide a broader, more inclusive view of Welsh history. Wales became the first nation in the UK to make these lessons a mandatory part of education. This is a milestone that directly reflects Campbell’s lifelong advocacy, as she was among the first to fight for a more inclusive and diverse curriculum that represents the histories of marginalized groups.
As Wales continues to grapple with issues of race, identity, and education, Campbell’s life provides a framework for how we might move forward. Her legacy is a call to action for future generations to continue the work she began – educating, empowering, and inspiring those who have been left out of the historical narrative.
As Edmonds put it, she sends a message for future generations: “Follow your dreams and stay true to yourself, knowing that you can make a difference.”
