The importance of re-learning and remembering Black History will always prevail as long as racism and inequality exist within our society. Therefore, we have been celebrating Black History Month here at CLC to learn about and celebrate the countless contributions that black people have made to all aspects of our society that may have been forgotten.
We are proud to participate in this national event as discrimination against people of colour, disproportionately black women, can only be combatted through widespread education. Whilst learning about this prejudice is important, it is only half the story; what is often forgotten is the incredibly positive impact black people have had on all societies they have lived in despite the racism they have faced.
The theme of this years Black History Month is ‘Saluting our Sisters’, which aims to highlight the crucial role that black women have played in shaping history, inspiring change, and building communities. We have been focussing on pioneering black women who have made remarkable contributions to literature, music, fashion, sport, politics, and academia, reflecting how they have impacted the world around them. For example, we send out a weekly email with three inspiring black women for the whole College to learn about, including Angela Davis, an author, feminist and civil rights activist and Anita Neil the first black female athlete to represent Great Britain.
We have also been running various events to facilitate discussions on this theme, from documentary screenings and reading groups to celebrating together through food. Recently the documentary ‘13th’ was screened in Elizabeth House which encouraged some deeper introspection into the war against crime in America. We have also worked closely with other departments to highlight the extensive impact black women have had on our culture and society. For example, the work of black female artists was looked at in the Lower College Art Club, and the English Department are delivering poetry readings from the works of poets such as Audre Lorde and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
It has been hugely rewarding to hear discussions being prompted by the events we have run. Open discussion plays, and will continue to play, a crucial role in re-addressing prejudice and celebrating the role of black women in all our history.
Ms Kilburn, Head of History and Politics
Black History Month Prayers and dinner:
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