On Tuesday 18 February 2025, the Cambridge Union hosted a landmark event commemorating the 60th anniversary of the historic James Baldwin v William F. Buckley debate. The evening featured an insightful discussion chaired by Lord Simon Woolley, principal of Homerton College and a prominent advocate for voter participation and racial equity. He was joined by renowned rapper, author, and activist Akala, along with Cambridge student Aliya Adebowale.
Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Lord Woolley remarked that when Rev. Keith Magee first suggested marking this anniversary in November of the previous year, neither of them could have predicted how poignant the event would be in the context of today’s political climate. With the rise of anti-democratic and anti-immigrant rhetoric, the discussion transcended mere celebration, offering a powerful reflection on the enduring relevance of Baldwin’s words.
Securing Akala as a speaker ensured a dynamic and thought-provoking discussion that deeply resonated with the audience. Lord Woolley expressed his gratitude to all those who made the evening possible, including the Cambridge Union team and key contributors.
The Legacy of Baldwin v Buckley
The original debate, held in 1965 at the height of the civil rights movement in the United States, saw literary giant James Baldwin face off against conservative commentator William F. Buckley. The motion under discussion was:
“The American dream is at the expense of the American Negro.”
Baldwin’s impassioned argument, which was televised by the BBC, remains one of the most powerful critiques of racial politics in America. He spoke with searing honesty about the Black experience in the United States, highlighting systemic exclusion and racial injustice:
“It comes as a great shock around the age of five or six or seven to discover the flag to which you have pledged allegiance, along with everybody else, has not pledged allegiance to you.”
His speech laid bare the realities of Black life in America, exposing the disillusionment that came with recognising that the nation in which one was born had no place for them.
Tragically, just a week after the debate, Malcolm X was assassinated, underscoring the perilous nature of the struggle for civil rights during that era.
The 2025 Discussion: Baldwin’s Legacy in Today’s Context
At this year’s anniversary event, Lord Woolley drew striking parallels between the issues Baldwin addressed in 1965 and those facing society today. He noted that while Baldwin optimistically suggested during the debate that America could see a Black president within 40 years, the reality of contemporary politics tells a more complex story. Barack Obama’s historic election in 2008 marked progress, yet in 2025, diversity and inclusion initiatives are increasingly under threat.
“How do we persuade people? How do we win hearts and minds?” Lord Woolley asked, emphasising that Baldwin was a master of these challenges. He pointed to the chilling similarities between past and present political discourse, stating, “I think we’ve had ten years from the last government that has demonised diversity and equity.”
Despite these concerns, Lord Woolley expressed hope that the audience at the Union remained committed to the ideals of diversity, inclusion, and equity – principles that Baldwin so fiercely defended.
About James Baldwin
James Arthur Baldwin (1924–1987) was an African-American writer, playwright, and civil rights activist whose works explored themes of race, identity, and social justice. His 1953 novel Go Tell It on the Mountain was named one of Time magazine’s top 100 English-language novels, and his 1955 essay collection Notes of a Native Son cemented his reputation as a leading voice in the struggle for human rights. Baldwin’s eloquence and moral clarity made him a key figure in the civil rights movement, and his legacy continues to inspire activists and scholars worldwide.
(Excerpt from Wikipedia)
About Akala
Akala is a multifaceted artist, author, and activist known for his incisive cultural critique and commitment to social justice. A co-founder of The Hip-Hop Shakespeare Company, he has released multiple studio albums and literary works, including his 2018 bestseller Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire. Akala has received numerous accolades, including the MOBO Award for Best Hip-Hop Act in 2006 and recognition on the UK Powerlist of the most influential Black Britons in 2021. He has also been honoured with degrees from Oxford Brookes and Brighton University for his contributions to music and culture.
(Excerpt from Wikipedia)
The 60th anniversary of Baldwin’s Cambridge Union debate served as a powerful reminder of how history continues to shape contemporary struggles for justice. Through thought-provoking discussion, the event underscored Baldwin’s enduring relevance and challenged attendees to reflect on how they, too, can contribute to the fight for equality in an increasingly turbulent world.