Black History Month
Black History Month, is a yearly, month long celebration of black heritage, history and culture.
It began in America in 1926 when historian and 'father of black history' Carter G Woodson (PIC) and the association for the study of Negro Life and
History, declared that the second week of February to be "Negro History Week" the date was chosen because it coincided with birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and the abolitionist Fredrick Douglass. It was initially met with opposition from many racist groups, but over the decades popularity and awareness grew, and in 1970 it was recognised by US President Gerald Ford as what we know today as Black History Month', he said:
"Seize the opportunity to honour the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavour through history"
Why do the UK celebrate in October?
Historians argue that black British history has a different meaning to the history of the US. October was chosen because it coincided with the 150th anniversary of the Caribbean Emancipation. First celebrated in 1987 it celebrated the unique and lived experiences of the nations African - Caribbean population.
Action Not Words
We strive to live in a equal world, with no hate and no racism, to recognise and celebrate each others cultures, achievements and advancements. Not only that, but to recognise the importance of the contributions made by the Afro Caribbean community that have been too often overlooked in past history text and teachings. Its time for change.
How do we achieve this? What can we do in our everyday lives to embed the important messages of black history month, and make sure that it lasts not just a month, but all year?
See it to be it, has been an important message, thinking about TV and media and how often ethnic groups are only represented playing certain roles in dramas, or not recognised throughout history or in TV adverts, things are begging to change, but there is more to be done. The main question needs to be, how do you know what's possible, if you haven't seen it, or recognise it as something you could achieve?
We recognise that particularly in the land based sector, there is much work to be done in making the sector more diverse. Please see our slide show for inspirational figures of African and Caribbean decent who are making waves in the land based industry. Enjoy this clip beolw to find out some things you may not know about black history.
Would you Share Your Journey with us: If you know of anyone who has inspired you that might be willing to share their story, please get in touch with us in Student Services. We would love to hear the stories of journeys lived through our student or staff body - real life stories can be so inspiring, so let us know if you are willing to share.
Black History Month 2022, Dig Deep, Look Closer, Think Bigger
Black History Month Profiles 793.4KB
Black History Month is the perfect opportunity to recognise and reflect on the ongoing contributions that people of African and Caribbean descent have made to history. This year, Capel Manor College is highlighting key figures making a difference in the land-based sector.
IBHM website:
We want to reclaim Black History Month UK and return it back to its original ethos of educating people on the achievements and contributions African and Caribbean heritage peoples have made to the UK’s history and culture.
We champion Black British voices and are one of the main custodians of documenting Black British history.
Discover cultural events celebrating Black communities, culture and history during Black History Month 2022 in London, throughout October.
What's on during Black History Month 2022?
The line-up of Black History Month 2022 activities include insightful talks, foodie events and celebrations of music and culture across the capital click the link for more details.