The annual Black History Month (BHM) starts tomorrow and the theme for this year is: Time for change – Action not words. Our community is proud to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black heritage and culture, while understanding the need for continued action and representation of Black history throughout the year.
Why BHM matters
BHM provides us with an opportunity to recognise the contributions of our whole community and Black figures – both past and present – who have gone unnoticed for their contribution in society. It is a chance to share our lived experiences of the effects of racism and discrimination we face, and come together to make a change in making our university a proud, vibrant and successful place to work and study.
This BHM, third-year medical student, Divas Mappa-Happy, reflects on what it was first like joining our community:
“As a Black British female from the Midlands, I was sometimes conscious of how I looked and how I would be perceived. I joined the African and Caribbean Society, where I felt a sense of community, and participated in the Awarding Gap Project to help improve the experience of my fellow Black students.”
Divas continues to share a personal account of why BHM matters: “BHM is dedicated to celebrating Black excellence, figures and success, but it is also a time for reflection where we bring light to the struggles we have faced as a community, from George Floyd to Chris Kaba and many more who will not be forgotten. It is a month dedicated to our voices, the voices that were not heard for so long.”
Nadia Thondrayen – member of the UoS REACH Staff Network – is the Exhibitions Curator for the John Hansard Gallery which seeks to highlight Black artistic achievement throughout the year. Nadia adds:
“It is important to support Black history and BHM so that we can continue to understand the past, which in turn is vital for understanding the present. BHM is a platform to highlight Black achievement, moving beyond the restrictions and stereotypes of racism. As a community we need to advocate for a society based on equity and social justice, and BHM is a chance for us to try to reset the balance scales.”
Events in the community
Learn about Black history, heritage, culture and achievements through various events and resources this BHM so we can create an inclusive community together. Here are some events taking place on Highfield Campus, in Southampton City and online.
Events for all
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Student events
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Staff events
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Find out about other Black History Month events in Southampton on the official Black History Month website.
Tools, sites and other resources
- Race at Work – Bitesize learning on Blackboard for staff
With examples of people’s lived experiences of racial bias and practical tips to support learning. Access the Race at Work learning via Blackboard. - Report and Support for staff and students
Report and Support is the University’s reporting tool for any acts of discrimination, harassment or hate, including how to access support. - Equality, Diversity and Inclusion SharePoint
- October Books events
Stay up to date with what is going on in our communities throughout the year
- Culture and International – SUSU societies
- Black Women’s Project
- Awarding Gap Project
- UoS REACH Staff Network
