Tuesday 1 October marks the start of Black History Month. This year’s theme is ‘Reclaiming Narratives’, which works to shine a light on black stories and the way they’re told.
For so long, we’ve learnt of topics of Black History that we might be more familiar with. Topics such as colonialism, slavery, the civil rights movement, and apartheid, for example. But there are plenty more stories that may not be so prominent – but are successes in their own right.
More recent examples include the works of Marcus Rashford campaigning for free school meals, the political activism efforts made by British grime artist, Stormzy, and in the last two years we have seen Black Britons occupy each of the three great offices of state.
This month invites us to explore more. From learning about the cultures and traditions of black communities, to hearing stories about local personalities, Black History Month provides an opportunity to learn and grow. An opportunity to rewrite the history we may already be familiar with, with one that is diverse, inclusive, and covers the wide breadth of achievements and contributions made.
It also gives us an opportunity to have open conversations about race. Conversations which remain as important today as they ever have been – a sad fact made clear after the immigration protests that took place across the country in August this year.
What’s on…
Throughout Black History Month, our employee-led network REACH is hosting several exciting events designed to celebrate and stimulate conversation. Come along and learn about the importance of black history, as well as embrace different elements of black culture, that you may or may not be familiar with.
9 October: Taste of Southern Africa Marimba Band – 11:00 to 13:00 in the Atrium
Enjoy an upbeat and exciting performance that encapsulates music from Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Botswana. A special event designed to bring us closer to the colours and culture of this part of the world, where many of our own team members come from. Add to your diary here >23 October: The Caribbean Store – 10:30 to 16:00 in the Atrium
Come along to discover some of the tastes and styles of one of our most popular holiday destinations and get closer to a culture that’s had a huge impact on Britain and its post-Windrush society. The Caribbean Store offers a variety of treats, from fiery hot sauce to handcrafted baskets, supporting Caribbean suppliers and their local economies. Add to your diary here >30 October: God’s House Tower Talk – 12:30 to 13:30 in New York meeting room
Join for an illuminating talk hosted by Southampton’s God’s House Tower. This insightful session will explore black history in Southampton, spanning from the 15th to the 19th century. Add to your diary here >30 October: Callaloo Corner – 11:00 to 15:00 in the Atrium
Callaloo Corner are back with a bang, with two Great Taste awards and a brand-new sauce in tow! Come along and discover an array of Trinidad-style sauces and chutneys and get to know the flavours of this part of the world, celebrating a culture through its food. Add to your diary here >
