A host of activities celebrating the history, heritage and culture of the black, Asian and minority ethnic community gets under way next week.
With nearly 50 events across the borough during October, many of them free to attend, there’s something for everyone to enjoy including musical performances, film viewings, book discussions, history sessions, networking events and more.
Councillor Patsy Cummings, Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic champion, said: “While black history should be fully incorporated in British history in schools and society throughout the year, October specifically offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the achievements of and contributions by the black, Asian and minority ethnic communities throughout the years.
“There’s a huge range of activities on offer with something that everyone can enjoy going on across our borough over the coming weeks.”
The month is being led by Croydon’s youth, aged eight – 23, and celebrates the Windrush generation with a modern twist with a theme of ‘Heroes to Heritage, past 2 present – same history’.
The month-long celebration gets under way on Tuesday 2 October with an event at Crystal Palace Football Club’s Speroni’s restaurant in Selhurst from 6pm.
Coordinated by the Croydon BME Forum Althea Efunshile CBE, a former chief operating officer and deputy chief executive of the Arts Council England and non-executive director of Channel 4, will give the keynote speech.
The event is free but tickets should be booked on Eventbrite.
Black History Month concludes with a celebration showcasing black businesses and entrepreneurs in the borough accompanied by music and entertainment at the Braithwaite Hall on 31 October.
You can find a full guide to the borough’s 48 activities online.
Films including One Note At A Time, BlacKkKlansman and A Passage To India will be shown as part of the celebration.
