Eric Leopold Huntley

Eric Leopold Huntley, a towering figure in Black British activism, publishing, and literature, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026, at the age of 93. Born in Guyana, Huntley dedicated his life to challenging racial injustice and amplifying marginalized voices, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural and political landscape of the United Kingdom and beyond. His pioneering work, particularly through Bogle-L'Ouverture Publications, transformed access to Black literature and fostered a vibrant intellectual community.

Huntley's journey began in British Guiana, where he was born in 1932. He migrated to the United Kingdom in the 1950s, arriving amidst a period of significant social change and racial discrimination. Witnessing firsthand the struggles faced by the burgeoning Black diaspora, he became a passionate advocate for civil rights and social justice, understanding the critical role that education and self-representation played in liberation. His early experiences fueled a lifelong commitment to empowering his community.

In 1969, alongside his beloved wife Jessica Huntley, he co-founded Bogle-L'Ouverture Publications, a groundbreaking independent publishing house. This venture became a vital platform for Black writers, scholars, and activists whose works were often overlooked by mainstream publishers. Bogle-L'Ouverture famously published Walter Rodney's seminal work, "The Groundings with My Brothers," and went on to release influential titles by Linton Kwesi Johnson, Andrew Salkey, and many others, shaping the intellectual discourse of the Black Power movement in Britain.

Beyond publishing, Huntley was a tireless community organizer and cultural impresario. He was instrumental in establishing the first Black Book Fair in London in 1982, an event that celebrated Black literary achievement and provided a crucial space for connection and dialogue. His involvement extended to various community initiatives, always striving to build solidarity and promote cultural pride among people of African descent. He was a steadfast presence at countless protests, meetings, and cultural events, embodying the spirit of grassroots activism.

Eric Huntley's profound legacy is etched into the fabric of Black British history. His unwavering commitment to justice, his visionary approach to publishing, and his tireless efforts to uplift his community earned him widespread respect and numerous accolades, including honorary doctorates and lifetime achievement awards. He will be remembered as a courageous intellectual, a dedicated publisher, and a compassionate activist whose work continues to inspire new generations to fight for equality and self-determination.