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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

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.