About Black History Season

What is Black History Season?

Black History Season is a season of events and activities that encompasses the anniversary of Black History Month, which has been celebrated across London since October 1987.

What is Black History Month?

Black History Month has its origins in the United States, where February has been recognised as Black History Month since 1926. It was thought that such a month was necessary in an effort to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of African Americans in keeping alive their heritage, traditions and histories.

In Britain, Black History Month was first celebrated in October 1987 as part of African Jubilee Year. The decision to make this an annual event each October was endorsed by the Association of London Authorities. It has since grown to celebrate the contributions and culture of London's African and Carribean communities to London's economical and cultural histories.

Putting London's history in the spotlight

London Celebrates Black Heritage, supported by the Mayor of London, recognises London's cultural diversity and heritage through the annual Black History Month each October. The programme of events shows the contributions and traditions of black and other minority ethnic groups in the context of the wider, shared history of the capital. Their history is an inseparable part of London's journey to becoming the world city it is today.

Poem

Read Jean 'Binta' Breeze's poem Anthem for Black Britain, written for Black History Month 2002.