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October is Black History Month in the UK. An important month for marking the contributions and history of Black people and communities in the UK. Black History Month aims to highlight the often-untold stories of Black people in UK history and celebrate these individuals and their achievements. Black History Month is a time to both celebrate and reflect.
Black History Month first started in the UK in 1987, the 150th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the Caribbean. Akyaaba Addai-Sebo organised the first Black History Month to celebrate Black people and their histories, and to challenge racism. October is also at the start of the academic year, and a good time to reflect that Black history should not be confined to one month, but should remain in classrooms and lecture halls over the whole year.
'I believe it’s crucial for Lancaster University to recognise Black History Month, not just because of the city’s harrowing links to the slave trade, but because this is a step towards recognising a newer, more accepting and more diverse Lancaster - one that takes accountability and progresses to reflect our current community and values.' Victoria Nyoni, Chairperson of the LUSU BAME Network
The 2025 theme is ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’. A theme that encompasses resistance, economic empowerment, and celebrating fighting against inequalities and injustices. The theme also encompasses resilience and pride, and the legacy of strength within Black communities.
