Black History Month Campaign

Black History Month Campaign

In October, Legal Women Celebrated Black History Month concentrating on this year’s theme of Reclaiming Narratives and sharing stories of Black history and culture, as well as correcting historical inaccuracies.

We featured stories of many Black women at varying stages in their career who were personally “reclaiming narratives” in their life. More importantly, these amazing women shared their “statements of intent” on how “reclaiming narratives” inspired them to dream big about their future. To say that “their future is looking bright” would be an understatement. The sheer determination of these women is a powerful testament to their resilience.

A couple of common themes that transcended across all the stories shared. Firstly, the “angry black woman” narrative which is conflated in instances when black women are merely being assertive and confident. Moreover, it also serves as a gaslighting technique when, having been subjected to oppression and marginalisation, black women are expected to remain silent.

Secondly, the alarming disparity between the opportunities accorded to black women and their counterparts, despite their competence and achievements being on the same level if not higher.

I have highlighted three examples of these insightful stories from some of our amazing contributors. The rest of these stories can be accessed on our social media pages. ■

Queen Kupakuwana

What are some of the narratives and historical inaccuracies about black people that you believe should be reclaimed?

There is a need for Africans to change the wrong narrative and perspective in respect of inaccuracies and prejudice that characterise black people, the wrong beliefs that have been set over the decades painting a bleak picture of the future. The true African narrative will serve as a powerful antidote to the misrepresentation, stereotypes and bias against Black history, culture, belief and achievements. This will help to restore the sense of pride, identity, dignity and self-belief as a means to foster respect, authenticity, value, depth of the Black history and culture of the Africans and the Diaspora as a people.

More appreciably Africans can build and portray an authentic narrative that serves as a foundation for a prosperous future. It can inspire and drive change, challenge existing stereotypes, and allow Africans to assert their position on the global stage confidently. The African diaspora can help maintain strong connection to their roots, ascertain their origin ,find themselves and enhance self-esteem among Africans and challenge systemic racism, structural prejudice that thrives on stereotypes and misinformation and dilution of facts on Afrocentric values that were rooted in Ubuntu values.(‘’you are because am’’)

Non-Africans' narratives about Africa are frequently inadequate and erroneous, in addition to being biased they propagate prejudice, inferiority, calumny and self-hate. Many a time Africa's rich historical past is frequently ignored or reduced to slavery, colonialism, and poverty in the Western educational system and world politics. Africa is never seen or presented as a partner or a source of solutions, hope and development. Africa has made great contributions to philosophy, science, the arts, music and world contemporary culture, these elements have either been minimized or completely disregarded. It is a sad fact to observe that there has been a deliberate ploy to paddle a false narrative that frequently ignores or substitutes facts with falsehoods which do not acknowledge the fact that Africa is the cradle that gave rise to humanity, it was the site of affluent medieval kingdoms and renounced educational centres such as Timbuktu in Mali and outstanding architectural and civil construction origins at Great Zimbabwe, which were all intellectual havens were the origins of mathematics, contemporary engineering and agriculture in ancient Egypt that surpass modern scientific inventions.

The media has also contributed significantly to the propagation of an incomplete narrative by emphasizing stories of poverty, illness, and violence while mostly ignoring those of resiliency, creativity, and progress. The skewed perception of Africa caused by this selective narrative emphasizes how urgently we need a more truthful, nuanced, and balanced representation of the continent by putting the Africans at the centre of defining their history, arts, music and narrative.

The achievements of the late former president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela remain iconic, he was a distinguished international statesman who graced the world political arena with tact, astonished every one with his charisma and diplomacy he inspires me a greatly.

Are there any less well known and/or untold stories about successful black figures that you believe should be reclaimed and amplified?

In Zimbabwe we have Nyatsimba Mutota, the founder and first Mutapa King. Mutota was sent to explore the area around the Zambezi Rivers north bend, and he returned happy to report that there was an abundance of salt and wild game. This is according to Shona oral tradition. During the middle of the 15th century, Nyatsimba Mutota, a renowned member of the Great Zimbabwean royal family is recognised for having established the Mutapa Empire to the north of the country where he ruled. One of the biggest empires in sub–Saharan Africa, it stretched nearly to the Indian Ocean’s edge when it first arose under Nyatsimba Mutota.

Secondly, prior to Serena Williams, there was Alice Coachman. In 1948, she achieved the distinction of being the initial black female to secure an Olympic gold medal, although similar to numerous black individuals, she encountered struggles to accomplish this remarkable achievement. Hailing from Georgia in the United States, the epicentre of segregation in the south, she encountered racism and was consistently prevented from participating in formal sports training or competitions. Always coming up with new ideas, she got creative by running shoeless on dirt paths and using branches and twine to train for the high jump. In the end, she excelled in competitions.

However, her aspirations of competing in the Olympics were delayed by the eruption of World War II, causing a temporary halt before she could pursue them. Alice managed to break a record by jumping 5 feet, 6 1/8 inches. She still motivates people to follow their athletic aspirations, regardless of any challenges they may face. She once mentioned that when things get difficult and you feel like giving up, listen to the inner voice urging you to persevere.

What achievements from famous black historical figures and culture inspire you to dream big?

The achievements of W.E.B Du Bois inspires me to dream big. W.E.B. Du Bois was already well-known as one of the most prominent Black intellectuals of his time before he co-founded NAACP. He was the first Black graduate of Harvard University with a PhD. He was a big Advocate for black education and power. I’m following in the footsteps of Du Bois who was an intellect and researcher.

As a student at Atlanta University, a historically Black university, Du Bois made a name for himself as a preeminent authority on racial issues and the suffering of African Americans. He disagreed with notable modern scholar Booker T. Washington's assertion that Southern Blacks ought to forgo their fundamental rights in return for access to legal justice and education. Additionally, he disapproved of the idea put out by abolitionist Frederick Douglass, which held that African Americans ought to assimilate into White culture. In contrast, Du Bois argued that Black Americans should embrace their African history even while they worked and lived in the United States in his essay "Strivings of the Negro People," which was published in The Atlantic Monthly in 1897.

The achievements of the late former president of South Africa ,Nelson Mandela remain iconic, he was a distinguished international statesman who graced the world political arena with tact, astonished every one with his charisma and diplomacy he inspires me a greatly. He was widely accepted as the most significant black leader to emerge out of Africa. He became a potent symbol of black power and colonial resistance throughout the world as the anti-apartheid movement gathered momentum. He consistently refused to compromise his political position to obtain his freedom. Nelson Mandela was released in prison on February 11, 1990 after negotiations with the hard-line Afrikaner regime. He mesmerized the world with his idea of prioritizing nation building through forgiveness and reconciliation in South Africa. He received more than 260 awards over 40 years, most notably the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993. From 1994 to 1999, Mandela was President of South Africa. He was the first such African to be elected in fully representative democratic polls. His traits and outstanding virtues continue to inspire humanity in terms of being an example of selfless service to the world. ■

Oluwademilade Adewakun

What are some of the narratives and historical inaccuracies about black people that you believe should be reclaimed?

A narrative and historical inaccuracy about Black people that I believe should be reclaimed is the myth that colonialism brought "civilization" to us, particularly in Africa. This distorted view suggests that European rule benefited Africans by introducing technological advancements, but the reality is far different. Colonialism exploited African people and resources, with many infrastructure developments primarily serving the interests of colonial masters. A clear example is the exploitation of the Democratic Republic of Congo by King Leopold II of Belgium, who, under the guise of "benefiting" the people, exploited the land for resources like ivory and rubber.

This narrative links into another harmful myth: that Black people, particularly Africans, were "primitive" and made no significant contributions to technology or education. In truth, Africa has a rich history of innovation. The University of Timbuktu in Mali was one of the world’s first major centres of higher education. Ancient Nigeria's Nok culture developed ironworking technology centuries before similar advancements in Europe. African achievements in astronomy, mathematics, medicine, and architecture, as seen in the Pyramids of Egypt and Great Zimbabwe, further debunk the myth of African primitiveness.

Lastly, the historical portrayal of Black people, particularly in the Americas, as solely defined by slavery and oppression needs to be reclaimed. While the history of slavery is integral, it is equally important to recognize the rich, diverse histories of Black innovation, leadership, and culture that existed long before these atrocities. Furthermore, despite being forced into a certain way of life, Black people have always been innovators, leaders, and activists. It’s time to correct the narrative and acknowledge the full extent of Black contributions to history.

Are there any less well known and/or untold stories about successful black figures that you believe should be reclaimed and amplified?

The stories of successful Black figures like Mary Seacole, Ignatius Sancho, and Christian Frederick Cole deserve to be amplified. Mary Seacole, a British-Jamaican nurse, humanitarian and healer, played a significant role in the Crimean War, providing care to wounded soldiers despite facing racial prejudice and rejection. Her contributions to nursing, including her early use of hygiene practices, have been greatly overshadowed by Florence Nightingale, with some scholars even reducing her role to merely serving tea. However, Mary Seacole’s extensive knowledge and experience, particularly during the yellow fever and cholera epidemics, position her as one of the pioneers in modern nursing whose story remains largely untold.

As a Black woman in the legal field, I’m aware there are spaces still silently perceived as not meant for me, however, their legacies inspire me to dream big, defy limitations, break barriers, and become a force to be reckoned with

Similarly, Ignatius Sancho, born a slave, rose to become a writer, composer, property owner, and the first Black Briton to vote in an election. His involvements in the abolitionist movement and his literary contributions portray vastly, the determination and innovation of Black individuals beyond the context of slavery. However, his story is still underrepresented in mainstream history.

Also, Christian Frederick Cole, who was the first Black lawyer to practice in English courts and the first Black graduate of Oxford University, also deserves recognition. He faced significant challenges, including racial prejudice and financial difficulties. Yet, Cole’s contributions to anti-racist movements and his pioneering legal career remain largely understated and underemphasized.

These stories all portray the rich and diverse contributions of Black individuals to history, and further highlight the importance of challenging the narrow and prejudiced narratives often associated with Black history.

What achievements from famous black historical figures and culture inspire you to dream big?

The stories of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti and Harriet Tubman are profound sources of inspiration for me as a Black woman. Funmilayo, a revolutionary Nigerian leader, achieved remarkable feats, including being the first woman in Nigeria to drive a car, organizing successful protests against British oppressive tax policies, and founding a literacy class for women at a time their education was undervalued. Her life inspires me to dream big because, despite her privileges, she used her education to be a voice for Nigerian women and to challenge oppressive systems. Her defiance and independence resonate with my own journey, as I am also privileged to have a family that values education—a privilege which is still very out of reach for many women in rural Nigeria. Funmilayo’s courage to break into male-dominated spaces encourages me to do the same in the legal field.

Similarly, Harriet Tubman’s leadership of the Underground Railroad leading enslaved people to their freedom, her role in the Civil War as the first woman to lead an armed assault, and her involvement in the women’s suffrage movement portray her incredible resilience. Born into slavery, she did not let her circumstances define her; instead, she became a force for freedom and justice for others like herself. Harriet’s story teaches me the power of self-belief and determination. Both women, despite their challenges, fought not just for their own rights but for others, breaking into spaces branded as ‘not meant for them’.

As a Black woman in the legal field, I’m aware there are spaces still silently perceived as not meant for me, however, their legacies inspire me to dream big, defy limitations, break barriers, and become a force to be reckoned with in this field. ■

Patti Kachidza

What are some of the narratives and historical inaccuracies about black people that you believe should be reclaimed?

I was the only black student in my secondary school in Brisbane. My history teacher asked me to write an assignment on ‘Perceptions of Africa’. I created a template survey, with questions such as ,“What do you think Africa and Africans are like?” The answers showed that most of the respondents thought Africa was a continent of poverty, flies and bicycles (don’t ask!) They had no understanding of African history, the great kingdoms, architecture, trade or literature.

I realised that their beliefs were similar to the inaccurate and illogical narratives which underpinned the system of apartheid that I lived under in my early childhood. Apartheid did not segregate people on a ‘separate but equal’ basis. It ranked people based on their skin colour. This meant that the paler your skin, the higher your chances of success would be. The dark skinned people inevitably got the least opportunities and were treated the worst.

Prejudgement and misconceptions still exist today. The only difference is that during apartheid, those beliefs were enforced by the law, while today, the beliefs are quietly played out in society and workplaces without being openly expressed. Examples are:

1. Black people are not as intelligent as other races

2. Before colonialism, there was no civilisation or education in Africa. Why do these narratives even exist? The answer is simple. They were designed to justify the oppression of black people in countries where they were enslaved and colonised. How do we reclaim and correct these narratives? Correct them using data, not emotion. Work with allies, journalists, opinion leaders who ‘get it’ and are passionate about fighting prejudice and bringing fairness to our societies. Black History month is a wonderful opportunity to educate black, white and brown people alike about black scholars, scientists and great warriors for justice and progress and show that intelligence is not the preserve of any one race.

Are there any less well known and/or untold stories about successful black figures that you believe should be reclaimed and amplified?

My reading has led me away from the well known leaders such as Martin Luther King and others. I now know about Mary Seacole, a Jamaican nurse who distinguished herself by treating soldiers during the Crimean War. She was also a successful author, investor and business woman. She died in 1881, and more than 100 years later, was awarded the Order of Merit by the Jamaican government. Mary’s story should be publicised to showcase her skills as a medic, and as a highly successful businesswoman and author. In 1857, she wrote “Wonderful Adventures of Mrs Seacole in Many Lands” the first autobiography by a black woman in England.

In addition to the many women who led their people in battles elsewhere in Africa, one less well known internationally was Nehanda Nyakasikana, born in Zimbabwe in 1840. Contrary to the narrative of Africans having no religion or political doctrines before the arrival of the white missionaries, Nehanda spoke about God as the guide for resistance against oppression and colonisation. She was the daughter of a powerful king, Munhumutapa, and had political acumen. She initially welcomed the first white people as visitors and traders, telling her people “Do not be afraid of them”. When it became clear that the newcomers had come to colonise and enslave the people, Nehanda led the revolt against Cecil John Rhodes invasion of the country. She and her ally, Sekuru Kaguvi were eventually captured and executed by Rhodes’ British South Africa Company in 1889. Her heroism inspired the nationalist war of liberation from British colonialism which began in the 1970s.

What achievements from famous black historical figures and culture inspire you to dream big?

I have always thought my inspiration to dream big would come from academics and political leaders, because of their obvious visibility in media. I am part way to retirement, and look back on the messages that inspired me from my youth.

I have now been impressed by the visionary thought leadership that comes from writers, musicians and poets who have been published. Imagine, millions of people flocking to buy your work, your music, lyrics and creative talent. From Bob Marley’s words to “Emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds” to another famous song “We are the world, we are the ones who make a brighter day so let’s start giving” and so many others, I am inspired to challenge myself and my assumptions, and then to set aside time to give, to empathise, and play my part to “make the world a better place”. Although much of what I do may not be on a platform or in a public space, it makes me happy, hopeful and fulfilled #BHM.

Curated by

Charity Mafuba

Design by

Emma Webb

Prejudgement and misconceptions still exist today. The only difference is that during apartheid, those beliefs were enforced by the law, while today, the beliefs are quietly played out in society and workplaces without being openly expressed.