The Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation, a No More Red charity partner, was established to honour the life and legacy of Stephen Lawrence. The Foundation’s mission is to inspire a more equitable and inclusive society and to foster opportunities for marginalised young people in the UK.
Observed annually on April 22, Stephen Lawrence Day is an opportunity for people, communities and organisations to come together and honour Stephen’s life and legacy, stand up against discrimination in our daily lives and work towards a more hopeful tomorrow. Through reflection, learning and action, the Foundation seeks to inspire change and create an equitable future for the next generation. This year’s theme highlights the work and impact the foundation has had since its inception.
Baroness Doreen Lawrence of Clarendon OBE, founder of the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation
“As we commemorate another Stephen Lawrence Day, I am reminded of the power of hope and the strength it provides so many to continue the journey towards justice and equity.
“This year, the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation has launched several initiatives that embody the spirit of hope that Stephen’s legacy inspires. From work experience, mentorship programmes, apprenticeships and scholarships that open doors for aspiring young people to creative partnerships that challenge and change our societal landscapes, we are making strides in empowering young people and giving them the opportunities they deserve.
“One of the greatest joys has been to witness the remarkable ways in which young people have been uplifted by Stephen’s legacy. Seeing them thrive, overcome barriers and seize opportunities that once seemed out of reach fills me with immense pride and hope. It’s a testament to the enduring power of Stephen’s legacy, and the way in which it guides us in supporting and celebrating the next generation.
“Hope is not passive; it’s a forceful drive that demands action and courage. It compels us to stand up against injustice, to support one another, and to build bridges where divides might exist. It’s the same hope we see in the eyes of the young people we work with, who are eager to make a positive impact in their communities.
“To everyone who stands with us, who believes in the power of change and who acts to make that change possible, I extend my deepest gratitude. Your support fuels our mission and ensures the values Stephen stood for continue to inspire change.”
Donald Mbeutcha, Interim CEO of the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation
“As Arsenal and Crystal Palace take to the pitch tomorrow evening, we will pause to remember Stephen Lawrence, a young man whose life was tragically taken far too soon but whose legacy continues to inspire change across generations.
“Stephen Lawrence Day is more than a moment of remembrance: it is a movement for change, grounded in the belief that a better, fairer future is possible. Through our ongoing partnership with Arsenal and the No More Red campaign, the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation is creating real, lasting opportunities for young people opening doors to education, creativity careers and community.
“At the heart of everything we do is a simple but powerful truth: Knowledge Changes Everything. Because when young people are given the tools to learn, to grow and to lead, their potential becomes limitless.
“Whether through mentoring, creative programmes or access to spaces where ambition is nurtured and safeguarded, this partnership shows what can be achieved when football, community and purpose come together. And none of this would be possible without the unwavering support of every Arsenal supporter. You are the heartbeat of this work.
“Together, we stand against violence, racism and injustice and we build a future where every young person, no matter their background, can thrive. Stephen’s legacy teaches us that, united, we achieve more – and with knowledge, we change everything.”
Narissa Williams, project manager at the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation
“Working at the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation since its inception has been an immensely rewarding journey. Through initiatives such as the HOPE Initiative, which connects young people with mentors at Great Ormond Street Hospital, and our apprenticeship scheme with Arena Racing Company, we see every day how targeted support can transform lives. These programmes ensure that potential from under-represented backgrounds is not just recognised but fully nurtured.
“The story of a young man who moved away from a gang background to transform his life through our scheme is just one example of the profound impact we can have. His journey from adversity to a beacon of hope for his community encapsulates why we do what we do.
“As we look to the future, my aim for the Foundation is to scale our efforts, doubling the opportunities available, particularly focusing on career pathways and scholarships in the arts and architecture. This vision aligns with Arsenal’s No More Red campaign, which, like us, seeks to provide young people with the means to build a brighter future away from violence and adversity.
“Together with Arsenal and each supporter who stands with us, we continue to draw inspiration from Stephen Lawrence’s legacy. It’s a privilege to contribute to this transformative work, especially as a parent striving to ensure that all our children can inherit a fairer, more inclusive world. Together, we stand against violence, racism and injustice, creating pathways that turn potential into achievement.”
If you’d like to support the invaluable work of the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation and help them continue to empower young people through knowledge and opportunity, please donate here.
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