October is Black History Month (BHM), a great opportunity to honour the accomplishments and contributions of black Britons throughout our history, as well as in the present day.
The awareness month aims to promote knowledge of black history, culture and heritage. It also seeks to provide information on positive black contributions to British society.
That way we can heighten the confidence and awareness of black people to their own cultural heritage.
The origins of Black History Month
In 1926, Carter G Woodson established African Caribbean celebrations in America.
After visiting America in the 1970s, Ghanaian-born Akyaaba Addai Sebo, a special projects officer at the Greater London Council, founded the UK’s version of BHM in 1987.
The United States celebrates BHM in February. This is due to former US President Abraham
Lincoln and abolitionist Frederick Douglass. Their birthdays fall within this month.
There are 2 reasons thought to be behind why BHM is celebrated in October in the UK:
- October is when African chiefs and leaders gather to settle their differences. So, Akyaaba chose this month to reconnect with African roots
- many thought that, since it was the beginning of the new academic year, October would give black children a sense of pride and identity
This year’s theme
The theme for BHM this year is ‘Reclaiming Narratives’ and marks a significant shift towards recognising and correcting the narratives of Black history and culture.
By emphasising ‘Reclaiming Narratives’, we shine a brighter light on our stories, allegories, and history.
This theme underscores a commitment to correcting historical inaccuracies and showcasing the untold success stories and the full complexity of Black heritage.
It’s about taking control of our stories and honouring our heroes while challenging the narratives that have often overlooked the contributions and achievements of Black individuals, both in the UK and globally.
If you’d like to learn more, here are 3 simple things you could do to celebrate black history:
- Visit the BHM website to learn more, read the latest news and see when key events are being held in the South East.
- Watch the A Celebration of Black History Makers video to find out more about those who inspire us.
- Have open conversations with friends, family members or work colleagues about black history. Use videos or articles as discussion points to help.
