OCTOBER is Black History month in the UK. It has been for the past 30 years. It is held to highlight and celebrate the achievements and contributions of the black community. It aims to address the inequality by celebrating the achievements and contributions of a people that were seen differently because of the colour of their skin.
Celebrate with understanding
The inception of black history is not a foreign one. The event grew out of “Negro History Week,” the brainchild of noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. Half a century after the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in the United States, Woodson and the prominent minister Jesse E. Moorland founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH), an organization dedicated to researching and promoting achievements by black Americans.
By the late 1960s, thanks in part to the Civil Rights Movement and a growing awareness of the black identity; Negro History Week had evolved into Black History Month on many college campuses. Since 1976, the president of the United States designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada, also devote a month to celebrating black history. Here in the UK, we celebrate it in October.
Mr. Woodson thought the teaching of black history was crucial in the study of race within society, and said: “If a race has no history, it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.“
Black History month is an integral part of understanding a diverse society that makes up the UK. Through such events and moments, we continue to promote positive examples of poignant historical events, a history that is inclusive and societal changes. This awareness for African and Caribbean communities in the UK not only acknowledges history but also provides an inclusive background to understanding a neighbour, friend or family member.
What is happening?
Celebrations differ from country to country, city to city but ultimately uplifting black communities is at the heart of every Black History Month events and celebrations. From learning about Martin Luther King, to following David Olusoga’s quest to unfold the Britain’s past in the slave trade, and joining local events celebrating artists, Black History Month offers 30 days of questioning, enjoyment and learning of a diverse people and its heritage.
By reliving and remembering history, we create awareness of the struggles and challenges that black people overcame. October has been designated for reflection, open dialogue, interdisciplinary education, and shared advocacy initiatives. Every race is connected to the rich history of this nation, and by celebrating Black History Month everyone can be included in a tradition of acknowledgement, inclusion and community engagement.
As the world continues to diversify with groups of many different origins, cultures and creeds, it is as important as ever to celebrate the histories that make up the collective account of the nation. It is important that we reflect and celebrate the monumental contributions and use them as a platform for future growth.
