Every October, the UK celebrates Black History Month. Throughout the month, a wide range of events at the University and across Southampton are held to celebrate African and Caribbean cultures and histories.
Why October?
Black History Month is an annual event that originated in the United States and started in the UK following the Brixton, Tottenham and Toxteth riots where Black Britons were experiencing high levels of marginalization and racism. As a response, Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, the Special Projects Officer at the Greater London Council coordinated the first official Black History Month event on 1 October 1987, with speaker Dr Maulana Karenga, the originator of Kwanzaa, the annual celebration of African American culture held from 26 December to 1 January in the United States.
Since then, the popularity and breadth of celebrations has grown exponentially into the current widely celebrated national programme known today.
This year, we’re delighted to present a special edition newsletter that explores the events and resources available, as well as the personal meaning of Black History Month in our University community.
The Black History Month newsletter includes:
- University events
- Community spotlight
- Events throughout Southampton
- Resources and support available