October is Black History Month
Throughout the month of October every year, many schools across the UK get involved with Black History Month.
It is an opportunity to educate. As Mia Morris, founder of the Black History Month (BHM) website that publicises the event notes, ‘despite the significant role that Africa and its diaspora have played in the world civilisation since the beginning of time, the contribution of Africans and people of African origin has been omitted or distorted in most history books. That is the reasoning behind Black History Month.
Mia uses an African proverb to illustrate this message,
“until lions write their own history, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.”’
There are many ways schools can take part in BHM, bringing in a rich mix of cross-curricular learning opportunities such as African dance, music, art, food, history and poetry.
Schools can invite a host of people into their schools to enhance BHM and inspire their pupils including musicians, theatre companies, storytellers and workshop providers. The important thing is to get involved!
‘I really love Black History Month,’ enthused 15-year-old I. Kwasi whose London school put on a special concert to mark the event. ‘To me it’s like [Notting Hill] carnival when you are on the centre stage and can be proud to be black.’
If you have a specific idea for BHM you would like an external educational service to work with your school on please contact us and we will find someone who can meet your requirements.
For further information on BHM events that are happening nationwide visit http://www.black-history-month.co.uk.
