Black History Month comes to Warwick

October is Black History Month, and a series of events organised by Warwick Anti-Racism Society are marking the occasion.

Black History Month began as “Negro History Week” in 1926, becoming a month-long celebration in 1976. Celebrated in February in the USA and October in the UK, Black History Month aims to recognise the contribution of individuals and events within black and minority communities.

Celebrations at Warwick this year include the Cutting Chains Liberation Celebration at Zephyr Lounge in Leamington, and a talk on cultural appropriation vs cultural appreciation.

Students who have attended the events so far have given them high praise. Khadijah Lewis, a History and Sociology finalist, said: “I would definitely recommend students to attend other black history month events!

“It’s really important to keep the dialogue about race and culture open (not just during Black History Month), especially at a university such as Warwick that can sometimes struggle with the inclusion of other cultures as a part of the mainstream university culture.”

Taking the first step to educate yourself may seem inconsequential, but is often the driving force behind change.

Iffah Adawiyah

Iffah Adawiyah, a first-year Politics and Sociology student from Singapore, commented that she saw “parallels between the issues that black people face and (her) own minority background.”

Jordan Ashton, a History finalist, said: “Black History Month helps me feel as though I am reconnected with my roots.

“Before university most of my study of history omitted the important events within the history of black people. Many members of my family took part in the Civil Rights Movement – I feel like this month is especially important to remember the struggles and journeys black people have faced.”

This year’s events also include collaborations with Warwick African and Caribbean Society, Hip Hop Society and Anti-Sexism Society. Though we are already in the middle of October, there are still many events to look out for, such as the Warwick Prevent Conference this Saturday, organised together with the Student Union.

There are a number of events running throughout the month and a full list of events happening this month can be found on the Warwick Anti-Racism Society’s Facebook page.

Iffah commented: “Taking the first step to educate yourself may seem inconsequential, but is often the driving force behind change.”