Assimilationist TV

+ intro by Sarita Malik, Professor of Media and Culture, Brunel University of London

Early multicultural television was initiated by the state to aid integration and provides a fascinating insight into the movement.

  • Total running time 68min

Monitor

BBC 1960. Series Editor Huw Wheldon. 24min. Digital

Nai Zindagi Naya Jeevan

New Life

BBC 1969. Series Producer Saleem Shaheed. 23min. Digital. With English subtitles

Apna Hi Ghar Samajhiye

Make Yourself at Home

BBC 1970. Series Producer Saleem Shaheed. 21min. Digital. With English subtitles

Nai Zindagi Naya Jeevan discusses the political climate and features former Labour politician Merlyn Rees, who affirms the governments support for migrant communities. Assimilationist programming was seen as unnecessary for West Indians. Monitor speaks to West Indian author Edgar Mittelholzer, alongside George Lamming, who offer contrasting views on British culture and Caribbean identity.