Celebrating Black History Month with pride, power, and community spirit

Black History Month was welcomed in by the Mayor of Islington, Cllr Jason Jackson, on Wednesday (1 October) at the Town Hall, with a flag-raising ceremony.

Islington’s celebration of the month includes a special talk by Aamna Mohdin, the Guardian’s first community affairs correspondent, at Central Library on her life story as a refugee and her own coverage of the refugee crisis.

The borough's Black Cultural Centre will also host an all-day youth enterprise workshop on Saturday, 1 November. The workshop coincides with the first anniversary of the centre, which acts as a safe space for residents from Black African and Caribbean heritage to come together.

Commemorating Black History Month reflects the council’s mission to create a more equal future, and supports Islington’s commitment to tackling inequality and creating a more welcoming environment for everyone.

Cllr Sheila Chapman, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Equalities, Communities, and Inclusion, said: “Black History Month in Islington is a powerful celebration of the heritage, creativity, and strength of our Black communities, and is a part of our mission to celebrate our rich diversity.

“I’m incredibly proud that last year we opened the borough’s Black Cultural Centre – a dedicated community space for Black communities, with a packed programme of events and activities led by Black-owned organisations.

“Through a vibrant line-up of events, we’re recognising the vital contributions of Black residents past and present. At a time of increasingly polarised debate, this month is one way to show we are proud that Islington is a place where everyone – no matter their background – is welcome.”

Other activities throughout the month include:

• Islington Libraries are hosting workshops throughout October, focussed on Black authors, as well as family-friendly activities exploring Black heritage through art during half-term (27-31 October).
• A project hosted by educational charity Light Project Pro International at the Exchange Community Centre including workshops, talks, and creative activities for all ages, culminating with a community showcase on Saturday, 18 October.
• A showcase of Black entrepreneurs and Black-owned businesses at the Town Hall on Thursday, 23 October.
• A bonus Black Entrepreneurial Panel, hosted jointly by the council and Impact Hub, on Monday, 10 November.

A full programme of events during the month is available on the Islington Life website.