The Equiano Society was founded by Arthur Torrington and Samuel B. King in London in November 1996. Its main objective is to publicise and celebrate the life and work of Olaudah Equiano. The society also celebrates and publicises the achievements of Equiano’s contemporaries: Ignatius Sancho, Phillis Wheatley, Ottobah Cugoano, and others who made outstanding contributions to African literary and cultural heritage.  We are not a debating society, or ask our supporters to become formal members or pay a membership fee. We organise events and activities in the community to which all are welcome.  

Our first community event was at St Martin-in-the Field, Trafalgar Square, London, in March 1997 when we commemorated the 200th anniversary of Equiano’s passing. It was one of three London churches where he attended services, St James’s Piccadilly and St Ann’s, Soho in the late 18th century.  
 
In November 2007 The Equiano Society organised Equiano Conferences in London and Birmingham. Speakers include: Dr Helena Woodard (University of Texas, USA), Dr Nini Rodgers (University of Belfast), Dr Alexander X. Byrd (Rice University, USA), Dr Clarice Barnes (Montserrat), Dr Joan Anim-Addo (Goldsmiths College, London), Dr Clive Harris (Birmingham), Burt Caesar (London), and Arthur Torrington (The Equiano Society).  The events were presented in association with Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery, Museum in Docklands, and The Drum, and with the support of Awards for All, Windrush Foundation, and Heritage Lottery Fund. The Equiano Society is a partner with Birmingham City Council in The Equiano Project, that features a major Exhibition, an education pack, an Equiano book, and an Equiano website.