Today marks the beginning of Black History Month in the UK, Ireland and the Netherlands. There’s a host of virtual activities taking place this month to celebrate the contributions of Black, African and Caribbean people in Britain organised by corporations, councils and community organisations.
Black people have always been present in the UK throughout history but there has been a lack of representation in history books. So this month serves to raise awareness and remember the forgotten people who have helped to shape the UK. The month-long event is designed to celebrate the rich culture, traditions, history and achievements that Black, African and Caribbean people have brought to Britain.
It was first celebrated in the UK back in the eighties and more recently in Ireland (Cork) in 2010. In the UK, it was first organised in London in 1987 by Ghanaian analyst Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, who had served as a coordinator of special projects for the Greater London Council. Today, it is celebrated in many regions across the UK.
AWARENESS-RAISING ACTIVITIES
Many events will take place across the country during this month to help us all learn about the important and the influential Black men and women who have made important contributions to British society. Many more organisations and employers are also getting involved to celebrate Britain’s outstanding Black talent in various industries across the UK.
The Black British Business Awards (BBBAwards), for example, has organised a month of online celebrations, special guests, live performances highlighting Britain’s outstanding talent in the word of business. According to the organisers, “These changemakers and trailblazers are making an extraordinary contribution to the UK economy and inspiring future generations.”
Founded in 2014, BBBAwards celebrates the exceptional performance and outstanding achievements of black professionals and business owners in the UK and empowers organisations with the necessary tools to attract, retain and progress their internal Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic talent. The hosts for this year’s virtual celebrations include award-winning actor, film producer and writer Chizzy Akudolu and acclaimed radio host Pilar Nalwimba.
Amidst the unprecedented challenges this year, BBBAwards has also joined forces with the #IAM campaign, created by Gavin Lewis, Justin Onuekwusi and Darren Johnson. The #IAM celebrates, acknowledges and amplifies the diversity of Black talent in the UK. Check the website for more details here.
BLACK INCLUSION MATTERS
Another noteworthy virtual event is Black Inclusion – The Past, Present & Future. Organised by Black Leaders and Auto Trader UK, the event aims to deliver a thought-provoking virtual event for Black History Month centered around Black Inclusion. Featuring keynote speakers, a panel session and the official launch of the Black Inclusion Index, this event will not only celebrate Black History but delve into various aspects of Black History through time, looking at where we have been, where we are now, and where are we going?
“The shocking death of George Floyd caught on video in the US sparked protests all over the UK and a national debate over Britain’s history,” commented Black Leaders Co-founder Paul Sesay. “Our impressive line up of experienced panellists will explore some of the issues in the UK which prompted so many to react, and what we as a society are facing today.” Click here for more information.
THE US EXPERIENCE
Although Black History Month is observed in October in the UK, Ireland and the Netherlands, it’s actually celebrated in February in the US and Canada – where it’s also referred to as ‘African-American History Month’. Earlier this year, during Black History Month in February, Fair Play Talks featured various guest columnists who talk about the US Black experience and events to celebrate the event.
AstraZeneca’s diversity champion Dawn E Christian outlined why she believes Black History Month is Everybody’s History Month. She also revealed how her grandfather, Dr Merl R Eppse, played an instrumental role in the creation of Black History Week in the US. Michelle Wimes, former Chief Diversity and Professional Development Officer at international law firm Ogletree Deakins, reflected on the commonly asked question: ‘Why does everything always have to be about race?’ Wimes also highlighted the importance of celebrating the accomplishments of Black people both in and outside of the workplace. Click here to read.
Leadership and diversity expert Nicole D Price highlighted how celebrating the month can help to normalise conversations about race and diversity in the workplace. She also provided valuable nuggets of advice for D&I/HR professionals on how to best celebrate the month in a meaningful way. And finally, East Coast Executives’ President Kenneth L Johnson, explores how you can leverage Black History Month to deliver real diversity and inclusion results.
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