The SU Presidents and Jane Garrihy
October marks Black History Month. The event was officially recognised by the US Government in 1976 and it was first celebrated in the UK in 1987. It is a time to recognise the contributions of those with African or Caribbean heritage which is an important part of our history and of our society that hasn’t historically been taught in our schools, or equally represented in our media.
Black History Month and Celebrating our sisters what does that mean to you?
In recent years there has been a spotlight on the importance of the Black Lives Matter Movement due to the revelations of the experiences of the Windrush Generation, and the following scandal that had resulted in failings that meant people were wrongfully deported. Also Following the death of George Floyd in 2020 which tragically highlighted the inequality in social justice, widespread anger and grief caused a momentum that was building around the world, and a Black Lives Matter march here in Bristol on 7.6.20 became headline news when 10,000 people took to the streets and a statue of Colston was toppled by protesters.
I have seen change in Bristol, Since the march in 2020, companies, buildings and roads quickly changed their names, following the world wide reaction to the statue being pulled down, not wanting to be associated with Colston even though this had been a source of hurt and controversy for many years before without any action.
These events were at least an opening of important conversations but were they a catalyst for change for equal and authentic representation in a meaningful and long lasting way not just for one month a year?
I asked our presidents what Black History Month meant to them personally, here are their thoughts:
Bethel Ekaette
Vice President Societies and Communication
Introduction:
As October approaches, the world gears up to celebrate Black History Month, a time dedicated to recognizing and commemorating the significant contributions and struggles of black people throughout history. In this post, I want to provide an overview of Black History Month, delve into its importance, share what it means to me as a black person, discuss this year's theme, and express why celebrating our sisters is particularly meaningful.
Overview of Black History Month:
Black History Month is an annual observance in some countries around the world. It was established in the United States by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926, initially as a weeklong celebration, and later expanded to an entire month.
Importance of Black History Month:
Recognition and Acknowledgment: Black History Month serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions of Black people to every facet of society—art, science, politics, sports, literature, and more.
Education and Awareness: It provides an opportunity to educate ourselves and future generations about the struggles and achievements of Black people. This knowledge helps combat stereotypes, prejudice, and racism.
Inspiration and Empowerment: By highlighting the accomplishments of black individuals, it inspires young black people to dream big and believe in their potential to make a positive impact on the world.
What Black History Month Means to Me:
As a black person, Black History Month holds a deeply personal significance. It is a time to reflect on the resilience and strength of my ancestors, who endured unimaginable hardships, and yet contributed immeasurably to society. It's a reminder that I stand on the shoulders of those who fought for my rights, and that I have a responsibility to continue their legacy of progress and equality. It's also a time to celebrate the richness of my cultural heritage, to honor the achievements of my community, and to be unapologetically proud of my identity.
This Year's Theme: Celebrating Our Sisters
The theme for this year's Black History Month, "Celebrating Our Sisters," is a powerful recognition of the pivotal role black women have played in shaping history. Black women like Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, Harriet Tubman, and many others have been trailblazers in the fight for civil rights, literature, arts, and countless other fields. Celebrating our sisters means acknowledging their resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to justice. It's a call to uplift and support black women who continue to lead and inspire us today.
Conclusion:
Black History Month is not just a time for the Black community to celebrate its heritage but an opportunity for everyone to learn, grow, and appreciate the diversity and richness of our shared history. It's a reminder that our progress as a society is intertwined with the acknowledgment and celebration of all our contributions, regardless of race or background. This year, as we celebrate our sisters, let us remember the extraordinary impact of black women and strive to ensure their voices and stories are heard, recognized, and celebrated throughout the year, not just in October.
Krishna Singh
Vice President Sports and Health
Black History Month is a vital annual celebration that holds profound importance for me. It's a time to acknowledge the immense contributions of Black individuals throughout history, highlighting their achievements and resilience in the face of adversity. It's a reminder that history is incomplete without these stories.
In celebrating Black History Month, we are not only honouring the past but also recognizing the ongoing struggles and triumphs of the Black community. It's a platform to amplify voices, share untold stories, and foster a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage that has shaped our world.
This year's theme, "Celebrating Our Sisters," is especially meaningful. It's a chance to shine a spotlight on the remarkable women who have been catalysts for change, often in the face of multiple forms of discrimination. Their stories are a testament to the strength, resilience, and brilliance of Black women.
Representation is crucial in this celebration. It's not just about showcasing success stories but also portraying the complexities of Black experiences. Accurate representation combats harmful stereotypes and promotes empathy, dismantling societal biases that have persisted for too long.
In newsletter, we aim to contribute to Black History Month by sharing inspiring stories, promoting dialogue, and challenging misconceptions. Let's use this month as a reminder to continue our commitment to equality, justice, and inclusivity throughout the year.
Here are the events that will be happening throughout the month:
https://www.thestudentsunion.co.uk/getinvolved/campaigns/blackhistorymonth/