Black History Month 2024 - What's On Guide

October marks Black History Month 2024, an annual month-long celebration of the culture, origins, histories and achievements of African and Caribbean communities and their diaspora. This year’s theme is #Reclaiming Narratives Black History Month 2024.

This theme is not just about revisiting history; it’s about taking ownership of the stories that define the culture, contributions, and identities of Black communities across the UK. It is also a call out, to step into the role of storytellers, historians, and custodians of Black heritage. For far too long, history has been narrated by others, leading to distorted portrayals that fail to capture the full breadth and depth of Black experiences.

Throughout October, there will be a series of bookable events (online and in-person), which have been curated following a collaboration between the SU and Staff BHM Working Group. Please find the full event listing and booking links here: What's On & Events @ Huddersfield Students' Union (huddersfieldsu.co.uk)

Empowering the Next Generation

One of the most exciting aspects of Reclaiming Narratives is its potential to inspire and educate the next generation. In schools, universities, and cultural institutions, this theme offers a fresh perspective on Black history that goes beyond the traditional focus on slavery and civil rights. It’s about celebrating Black excellence in all its forms—whether in the arts, sciences, politics, or everyday life.

Imagine the impact of young people learning about Black history through the stories of their own communities, through narratives that reflect their realities and aspirations. This theme offers a platform for educators and community leaders to engage young minds in a way that is both meaningful and empowering.

Book now to join with colleagues and students during our month-long celebration as we ‘Reclaim Narratives’:

Join Heritage Quay staff to explore their new exhibition ‘Activism in the Archives’.
Join Honorary Doctorate Zenebu Hailu Dubale’s Talk and Q&A, focussing on her research into the intersectionality of race and gender
ONLINE Webinar with Daniel Similaki, Huddersfield alumni and founder of the ACCSN - first professional network dedicated to raising Black representation in the commercial science industry ‘How Misrepresented Narratives Affect Black Communities and the Role of Allies in Supporting Their Reclamation’
ONLINE Reclaiming Narratives Panel Meeting: Celebrating the positive impacts and contributions of Black migrants in the UK' (with University staff and SU BAME Ambassadors)
BHM Book Club - discussing 'You can't say that! Stories have to be about white people.' by Darren Chetty and 'Psyche' from Love in Colour by Bolu Babalola. The two chapters for the Book Club are now available digitally on the Black History Month Reading List to read in advance of the Book Club session.