Case Study: Uncovering the Role of Sikh Mothers in Smethwick's Industrial Heritage

What is this case study about?

This case study highlights the 'Rags to Riches: How Sikh Mothers Made Smethwick' project, led by the Sikh Development Academy.

By working with Sikh women and young people, this initiative honoured their role in the textile industry while nurturing a deeper connection between generations. It demonstrates how best to amplify the contributions of Sikh women to local industrial heritage.

This project was supported by Historic England's Everyday Heritage Grants scheme.

What are the key points?

What was the project about?

In the 1950s, Sikh families from Punjab, India, migrated to Smethwick, a town in the West Midlands. Among these migrants were Sikh mothers who utilised their traditional sewing skills in the local textile factories to contribute significantly to the local textile industry and play a vital role in the economic stability of their families.

The project aimed to document their contributions and highlight the historical importance of Sikh mothers in Smethwick's industrial landscape. The project's other aims included:

• To document these contributions and preserve important heritage for future generations
• To bridge generational gaps within the Sikh community

Who did the project work with?

The project engaged 2 primary groups: Sikh mothers who were former factory workers, and young members of the Sikh community.

The young participants were trained in research and interviewing techniques, allowing them to document the stories of these women. This approach not only preserved historical narratives but also gave the young researchers valuable skills and a deeper understanding of their heritage.

During the project, 21 video interviews were conducted, with 16 in Punjabi, ensuring participants could express themselves fully. These interviews were translated, transcribed and made available for public display.

Additionally, 9 Sikh mothers participated in textile workshops, collaborating with a local artist to create a large textile art piece symbolising their shared experiences. This artwork was exhibited at a community event attended by over 100 people.

What were the outcomes?

The project achieved several significant outcomes:

• Young participants gained a deeper appreciation for the contributions of the older generation. This engagement helped bridge the gap between younger and older members of the Sikh community, fostering a stronger sense of identity and pride in their shared heritage
• The young researchers developed transferable skills in interviewing, research and public presentation. These skills are valuable for their personal development and future community engagement
• The project's outputs, including video interviews and the textile artwork, have been archived at Smethwick Library, ensuring that the contributions of Sikh mothers to the local textile industry are preserved and accessible for future generations
• The project also provided a platform for sharing stories from diverse backgrounds, such as those from Ghana and Trinidad, highlighting the universal nature of textile crafts and underscoring the importance of preserving these skills across different cultures

What were the challenges?

• Additional time and resources were required to support the young community researchers in conducting interviews and local research. The project team provided extra support to ensure the successful completion of these tasks
• Building trust with the older participants took time, as many initially lacked confidence in participating. The project team worked closely with the participants to create a supportive environment, encouraging them to share their stories
• Some older participants faced difficulties with eyesight and dexterity, which impacted their ability to participate fully in the textile workshops. The project team made necessary adjustments to accommodate these needs to ensure inclusivity

What lessons were learned?

• Engaging both younger and older generations can foster stronger community ties and a deeper understanding of shared heritage. This approach is beneficial for preserving cultural narratives and skills
• Collaborating with local institutions, such as libraries and places of worship, can provide essential support and help sustain the project's impact. These partnerships can also facilitate broader community engagement
• When planning workshops, it is important to consider the specific needs of participants, particularly those who may face physical challenges. Adjusting activities to accommodate these needs can enhance participation and overall project success