About
Black History Month is both a time to celebrate and a time to learn about Black history and culture. A wide range of events are held celebrating African and Caribbean cultures and histories, including everything from food festivals to music workshops, educational seminars and lectures. Black History Month is an opportunity to start conversations about race, and celebrate Black African and Caribbean diverse communities and individuals, each of whom play a fundamental role within British society and history.
Why is October Black History Month?
Black History Month began in the US in the 1920s and has been celebrated in the UK since 1987. During the Thatcher era, following the Brixton, Tottenham and Toxteth riots, Black Britons were experiencing high levels of marginalisation and racism. In response to this, Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, a Ghanaian analyst and activist who was working as the Special Projects Officer at the Greater London Council, co-ordinated the first official Black History Month event on 1st October 1987 with speaker Dr Maulana Karenga, the originator of Kwanzaa.
This year’s theme for Black History Month 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. #ReclaimingNarratives
The journey of reclaiming narratives is not just a theme for Black History Month; it’s a movement towards acknowledging and appreciating the myriad contributions of Black individuals throughout history. As we embark on this path, we invite you to join us in embracing, educating, and empowering one another through the stories that shape our collective identity.
Manchester
Below you can find out more about Manchester's prominent Black figures, events taking place across the city for BHM, local groups for Black and BAME people in Manchester and further reading recommendations. Click on the images below to find out more.
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