Standing Firm in Power and Pride: A Reflection for Black History Month

Cllr Cooper Marbiah, Cabinet Member for Sports and Heritage, shared her reflections on Black History Month 2025: 

“This year’s Black History Month theme, ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’, has deeply resonated with me. It’s more than a slogan - it’s a call to action, a reminder of the strength we as the Black community carry, and a celebration of the legacy we continue to build, both in Merton and beyond.

To me, this theme means using my influence not only to uplift my community, but to represent it with pride and purpose. It’s about honouring the achievements of Black people, past and present, while actively shaping a future where our voices are heard and our presence is felt. 

Before becoming a Councillor, I founded and chaired the Crusoe Road Residents Association in response to anti-social behaviour. Working closely with residents, councillors and the police, we made significant improvements in our community. I also briefly served as Secretary of the Colliers Wood Residents Association. These experiences taught me how to use my voice and position to shape outcomes that reflect the needs of the people I represent. 

Since being elected, I’ve held several cabinet roles, including Education, Adult Social Care, and Health. I’m now proud to be the first Cabinet Member for the new portfolio of Sports and Heritage. 

In this role, I’ve had the privilege of supporting initiatives that promote wellbeing, community engagement, and cultural pride. These include ParkPlay, a free weekly intergenerational play session; Morden Park Run, a free weekly 5k run; and introductory golf sessions for older Muslim women. 

I’ve worked to make sports facilities more inclusive by introducing dementia-friendly swim sessions and free swimming for under-16s and over-65s. Through our Borough of Sport Grant Fund, we awarded £200,000 to several community organisations, many serving underrepresented groups. 

I’m proud to have led efforts to preserve and celebrate our borough’s rich heritage -from supporting our library services and heritage centre to organising events like the Summer Reading Challenge and Merton’s Annual Heritage Discovery Day, which reflect the diversity of our community. 

One particularly memorable moment in my role came during a celebratory event for AFC Wimbledon, when several Black players approached me to ask about my role. They shared how proud they were to see a Black woman in leadership. Their words reminded me why I entered politics: to inspire others and encourage greater participation in public life. 

Representation matters. I’m proud that our Labour group includes many Black councillors from diverse backgrounds. This diversity reflects the richness of our community and the inclusive future we are building together for Merton. 

As Black History Month comes to a close, let’s continue to stand firm in our power and pride - honouring those who came before us, uplifting those around us, and paving the way for those yet to come."