Join webinar for Black History Month

October is Black History Month (BHM), which gives everyone the opportunity to share, celebrate and understand the impact of black heritage and culture.

This year, the focus is on correcting historical inaccuracies and showcasing the untold success stories, contributions and achievements from past and current black individuals with the theme ‘Reclaiming Narratives’.

Wokingham Borough Council will be exploring the theme at a webinar, which it is hosting on Monday 28 October and featuring members of the borough’s Equality Forum and guest speakers. This will be a chance for everybody in the community to learn more about the theme and join in the discussion.

Anybody wanting to join the discussion can watch the webinar by following this link.

Cllr Stephen Conway, leader of Wokingham Borough Council, said: “Black History Month is an important date in the council’s calendar and we are always keen to support it and encourage others to do the same. 

“This year’s theme is incredibly important because black communities have for too long had their stories and histories told by others.”

The council has supported the setting up of an independent Equalities Forum, which is community-led and provides representatives from local groups with a platform to discuss the needs and aspirations of their communities and shape services. 

Email the Equality Forum inbox, on equalityforum@wokingham.gov.uk to find out more.

The chair of the forum Alice Kunjappy-Clifton has shared her thoughts on this year’s Black History Month theme.

The origins of Black History Month 

In 1926, Carter G. Woodson established African Caribbean celebrations in America. 

After visiting America in the 1970s, Ghanaian-born Akyaaba Addai Sebo, a special projects officer at the Greater London Council, founded the UK’s version of BHM in 1987.

There are two reasons thought to be behind why BHM is celebrated in October in the UK:

• October is when African chiefs and leaders gather to settle their differences. So, Akyaaba chose this month to reconnect with African roots
• It was thought that, since it was the beginning of the new academic year, October would give black children a sense of pride and identity 

The theme for BHM this year is ‘Reclaiming Narratives’ and marks a significant shift towards recognising and correcting the narratives of black history and culture.

By emphasising ‘Reclaiming Narratives’, we shine a brighter light on our stories, allegories and history. This theme underscores a commitment to correcting historical inaccuracies and showcasing the untold success stories and the full complexity of black heritage. 

It’s about taking control of stories and honouring heroes, while challenging the narratives that have overlooked the contributions and achievements of black individuals, both in the UK and globally. 

Here are three simple ways to celebrate black history:

1. Visit the BHM website to learn more, read the latest news and see when key events are being held in the area
2. Watch the A Celebration of Black History Makers video to find out more about those who have inspired
3. Have open conversations with friends, family members or work colleagues about black history and use videos or articles as discussion points to help