Silence is the founder of the Fair Justice System for Scotland (FJSS) Group and is passionate about highlighting the plight of black people. With a law degree from Edinburgh Napier University and the University of Strathclyde, and a master’s in human rights and diplomacy from Stirling University, he has been an avid human rights campaigner throughout his career.
In October 2022, Silence published a history book entitled “The West Lothian Connection” that highlights the prominent links that the West Lothian area has with Chattel Slavery commonly known as the Trans-Atlantic Slavery, and the role that was played by prominent figures from West Lothian. The book is available through Waterstones and Amazon and inspired West Lothian Council to set up a Working Group to look into the history and legacy of slavery in the area. Silence is currently a co-chairperson of the working group and helps to chair its meetings and steer its direction.
Silence was also a member of the Scottish Government appointed Steering Group that reviewed the diversity and inclusiveness of the museums and galleries sector in Scotland, and a member of the City of Edinburgh Council commissioned Review Group that looked at the links between the city’s economic development and slavery and colonialism. In addition, he is a member of the Law Society of Scotland’s Consumer Panel that was set up by the society’s Regulatory Committee.
When he’s not working, Silence enjoys going cycling with his children and exploring the brilliant cycle tracks across West Lothian.
We’re thrilled to have Silence on board as one of our trustees, and we look forward to his continued contributions to the community!