Why did Benjamin Zephaniah reject an obe?

Answer 1

Benjamin Zephaniah rejected an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 2003 because he felt that the honor was associated with a colonial past and the British Empire's oppressive history. He expressed his belief that such awards often overlook the struggles of marginalized communities and the injustices they face. Zephaniah, a prominent poet and activist, chose instead to focus on social justice and equality rather than accepting an honor that he felt did not align with his values.