Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy delivered her first major speech in Manchester. The address was infused with inspirations from Orwell, Engels, filmmaker Danny Boyle, and the band Take That.
Speaking to an audience of 150 industry representatives, Nandy’s speech emphasised the importance of cultural heritage and the power of unity in driving progress.
Inspirational Figures in British Culture
In a speech filled with powerful references, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy invoked notable figures like George Orwell, Friedrich Engels, filmmaker Danny Boyle, and the famous band, Take That. Her words highlighted their significant contributions to British culture and their continuing influence on contemporary society.
Nandy began by recounting a conversation with Danny Boyle, the creative mind behind the 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony. She pondered how the country could shift from unity, as seen during the ceremony, to division and anger. Boyle’s response was hopeful, asserting that the nation’s spirit still exists and is awaiting expression.
Historical Contributions and Modern Relevance
Nandy drew connections between historical contributions and present-day challenges. She referenced Engels’ work, “The Condition of the Working Class,” which was penned in Salford, and underscored the enduring spirit of the industrial revolution.
Highlighting the People’s History Museum in Manchester, Nandy emphasised its role in preserving the history and ideas of ordinary people, which she believes can guide the future. She also mentioned the city’s legacy in establishing the first free library and the ongoing battle against violence, led by Erinma Bell.
Innovative Journalism and Local Media
Nandy praised Manchester’s rich history of pioneering journalism. Institutions like Granada TV were pivotal in significant campaigns, such as the fight for justice for the Birmingham Six and the Hillsborough disaster.
Manchester Evening News received acclaim for its groundbreaking work in local journalism, showcasing the indispensable role of regional newspapers in today’s media landscape. She quoted Tony Wilson, affirming Manchester’s unique approach: “This is Manchester – we do things differently here.”
Revamping Education and Partnerships
Nandy announced a review of the curriculum to reintroduce creative and sports opportunities, aiming to enrich the lives of children across the nation.
She also discussed plans to collaborate with mayors, councils, businesses, and charities. These partnerships aim to bolster growing industries such as film, theatre, TV, fashion, video games, heritage, and tourism. This initiative is set to stimulate the economy, create opportunities, and showcase UK talent globally.
Diverse Representation in Public Appointments
The Culture Secretary stressed the importance of diversity in public appointments. Nandy’s goal is to ensure that government reflects the rich diversity of the UK, harnessing the creative potential of all citizens.
She believes this diversity will help create a self-confident nation, where everyone’s contributions are recognised and valued. Nandy’s vision is for every citizen to see themselves in the national narrative, contributing to a cohesive and inclusive society.
Support from Industry Leaders
Industry leaders expressed robust support for Nandy’s vision. Chris Bird of Prime Video UK applauded the government’s ambition to grow the creative sector. He highlighted Amazon’s substantial investments in UK’s creative industries and the potential for future growth.
Warner Bros. Discovery’s Andrew Georgiou echoed this sentiment. He emphasised the UK’s significance to their business and their commitment to strengthening the British creative sector. Both leaders underscored the importance of partnership between government and industry in achieving these goals.
Concluding Remarks from Nandy
Lisa Nandy concluded her speech with a message of unity and determination. She assured the audience of her commitment to supporting those who believe in the country’s potential.
Nandy emphasised the collective effort needed to bring about change and promised to stand by those who share her vision. She ended with a hopeful note, quoting Take That: “We’ve come so far. And we hope for more.”
Nandy’s speech showcased a blend of historical reverence and forward-thinking vision. She reiterated her commitment to leveraging the UK’s rich cultural legacy to shape a more inclusive and dynamic future.
With strong support from industry leaders, her vision promises to reinvigorate the creative sector and underscore the importance of unity and diversity in driving national progress.