Black History Month 2024
Black History Month 2024 - Reclaiming Narratives
By Prince Ikechi, President: Activities
In the United Kingdom, the month of October is a remarkable month set aside to celebrate the achievements of black individuals and communities that have contributed to the shaping of society in the UK. This year’s Black History Month (BHM) celebration marks the 37th anniversary of the celebration in honouring the rich heritage, contributions and achievements of black communities. The annual event provides an invaluable opportunity to delve into history, while acknowledging the struggles and triumphs of the past and engaging in meaningful discussion about the ongoing movements around equality and justice. It also encourages individuals to reflect on the progress made so far in acknowledging the work that still needs to be done to eradicate racism, discrimination and inequality. It is well established that education plays a vital role in the celebration of BHM, as it offers the opportunity for retrospection to learn about the historical context of racism, segregation and the civil rights movements for black people.
We've also got lots of great events going on throughout October to mark and celebrate Black History Month. Check out our Black History Month events.
Reclaiming Narratives
This year’s theme for UK Black History Month is Reclaiming Narratives, marking a significant shift towards recognising and correcting the narratives of Black history and culture. 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.
The journey of reclaiming narratives is not just a theme for Black History Month, it’s a movement towards acknowledging and appreciating the myriad of contributions of Black individuals throughout history. The insights, stories, and historical retrospectives that resonate with the ethos of “Reclaiming Narratives, aim to foster a space where the rich multifaceted tapestry of black history is celebrated and revered. Therefore, it is through education that we can dismantle misconceptions, challenge stereotypes, institutionalised systemic racism and violence against black people.
