Black History Month, observed annually in October in the U.K., is a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black individuals to society while reflecting on the ongoing struggles for racial equity and justice. Black History Month 2024 will continue this vital tradition by fostering awareness, education, and action toward a more equitable world.

The Origins of Black History Month

Black History Month began with Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who created Black History Week in 1926 to highlight the overlooked contributions of Black people in history. By the late 1960s, it expanded into Black History Month during the Civil Rights Movement. In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized the month, urging the nation to honour the often-neglected achievements of Black Americans.

The central goal of Black History Month is to highlight the historical, social, and cultural achievements of Black people across the globe, while acknowledging the injustices they have endured. These objectives are rooted in:

• Education: Increasing awareness of Black history, culture, and experiences within the broader public.
• Celebration: Honouring the legacy and contributions of Black individuals in fields such as science, politics, art, sports, and education.
• Advocacy: Addressing ongoing racial inequities and advocating for systemic change.
• Unity: Encouraging solidarity among all people, regardless of race or ethnicity, to combat racism and promote equality.

Black History Month 2024 Theme

Each year, Black History Month has a designated theme, providing a focused narrative for the month’s activities and events. The theme for Black History Month 2024 is ‘Reclaiming Narratives:

‘In today’s world, stories are powerful tools that shape how we understand our past, present, and future. For too long, the history of Black communities has been told through lenses that often misrepresent, oversimplify, or entirely overlook the rich and diverse experiences of those who lived it. But 2024 is set to be a transformative year. Black History Month UK has unveiled its compelling theme: Reclaiming Narratives’ Reclaiming Narratives: The Inspiring Theme for Black History Month 2024 - Black History Month 2024

Events at Sussex

From Margins to Milestones: A Black Scholar's Journey Through Academia and Healthcare

Join us online on Wednesday, 23 October at 12:30pm UK time, as Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) celebrates Black History Month with a special event featuring Patrick Nyikavaranda. Patrick will share his experiences navigating academia and healthcare in conversation with Dr Neil Singh.

As an NIHR-funded researcher and Managing Director of Diversity Resource International, Patrick has worked extensively to address health and social inequalities, focusing on community-led research and mental health support for vulnerable populations.

Register now to secure your place for this insightful discussion. The event is free and open to all: Please register now on Zoom to guarantee your space.

The Big Read: Clive Myrie in Conversation with Vice-Chancellor Sasha Roseneil

Join us on Monday, 14 October from 1pm-2pm at the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts (ACCA) for a special live event with Sussex alumnus and award-winning journalist, Clive Myrie. In conversation with Vice-Chancellor Sasha Roseneil, Clive will explore themes from his memoir Everything is Everything: A Memoir of Love, Hate & Hope.

Hear Clive discuss his journey from a Bolton teenager delivering newspapers to becoming a renowned journalist, and how his time at Sussex shaped his career.

Book your free place now for this exclusive in-person event: The Big Read: Clive Myrie in conversation with Vice-Chancellor Sasha Roseneil : Staff Hub : University of Sussex.

Local Community Events

Komedia Comedy Club
Celebrate Black History Month with live comedy featuring three top acts and an MC.
Dates: Friday 4 & Saturday 5 October 2024
Time: 8pm
Location: Komedia, Brighton

Black Brighton Market
Celebrate Black History Month and the market's 2-year anniversary, showcasing Black-owned businesses.
Date: Saturday, October 5, 2024
Location: Brighton

Mo Gilligan - In The Moment World Tour
Triple BAFTA-winning stand-up sensation Mo Gilligan performs his world tour.
Date: Monday, 9 October 2024
Location: Brighton

Family Day - Take Part
Hidden Sussex workshops for children and young people, and a talk on James Hubbard.
Date: Saturday, October 19, 2024
Location: Brighton Dome and Jubilee Library

Black Networking with BARCO
Exclusive networking event for Black professionals, featuring R&B Karaoke and a meal from The Caribbean Kitchen.
Date: Thursday, 24 October 2024
Time: 6pm – 9pm
Location: Projects the Lanes, Brighton BN1 1HW

Afrori Books Event Series
In Conversation events with notable authors like Professor Nicola Rollock, Ray Shell, and Maame Blue.
Dates: Throughout October
Location: Afrori Books and Online

Dominoes Club
Join for another session of dominoes and community celebration with music.
Date: October 26, 2024
Time: 3pm – 8pm
Location: 4 Prince's Street, Brighton

Race Equity at Sussex

The University of Sussex takes an active stance in promoting race equity within its community. One key initiative is the Ethnic Minority Staff Network (EMSN), a support and advocacy group for all staff who define themselves as belonging to a minority ethnic group. If you are interested in joining the network, you can email EMSN-staff@sussex.ac.uk to sign up.

The university’s commitment to race equality is also evident through its participation in initiatives such as the Race Equality Charter, which is designed to improve the representation, progression, and success of racially minoritised staff and students within higher education. You can find out more about the Race Equality Charter and related initiatives on the university’s website:

• Race Equality Charter Overview
• Race Equality Initiatives

Additionally, to explore the work being done by underrepresented groups, visit our Black at Sussex webpage to see how we work to amplifies the voices of Black students and staff at the University of Sussex. If you would like to discuss Black at Sussex please contact our project manager Bud at Bud.Johnston@sussex.ac.uk. 

You can also read our Anti-Racist Pledge here.

As we approach Black History Month 2024, it is crucial to reflect on the achievements of Black people worldwide and continue the fight for racial equity. The observance not only honours the rich history and contributions of the Black community but also serves as a reminder of the work that remains. Through education, advocacy, and solidarity, Black History Month can inspire action and foster a more inclusive and just society for all.

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