US Negro History Week (1926)
ORIGINS OF BHM Considered the brainchild of historian Carter G Woodson, BHM was originally celebrated in February, Negro History Week in the US coincided with the celebration of the birthdays of two notable contributors to the struggle for freedom: Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
US Black History Month (1976) UK Black History Month (1987)
On the instigation of a union of students, and the approval of President Gerald Ford, this celebration was extended to a month-long celebration of black history, culture and contribution.
“seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.� US President Gerald Ford
"If a race has no history, it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated. The American Indian left no continuous record. He did not appreciate the value of tradition; and where is he today? The Hebrew keenly appreciated the value of tradition, as is attested by the Bible itself. In spite of worldwide persecution, therefore, he is a great factor in our civilization.” Carter G Woodson (historian)
RATIONALE • Despite objections based on exclusion, neglect and prioritizing, BHM plays a role in: 1.
Honouring historic leaders of the black community
2.
Continuity – ensuring that the diaspora have a keen sense of the struggles that have been fought to gain the current privileges
3.
Highlighting the best of black history and culture
4.
Creating an awareness for All People
5.
Preserving, celebrating and acknowledging our history – and its role in our destiny
BHM AND THE UK The African presence in the UK predates 1596 as Queen Elizabeth stated her “good pleasure to have those kinde of people sent out of the lande” Despite this, and Britain’s role in the slave trade, Professor Gretchen Gerzina indicates that many in the African diaspora – servants, soldiers and freed men – enjoyed relative freedom and prosperity
BHM AND SCOTLAND On returning from their travels abroad, many slave owners brought with them slaves from the West Indies. Although post abolition, many continued to live in servitude until by litigation or revolution they gained their freedom. Joseph Knight’s landmark legal battle eventually resulted in a ruling that Scots law did not recognize or support slavery. Essentially outlawing slavery in Scotland. More on BBC Radio 4
NNEOMA OKPARA
VP WELLBEING & EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
• Black history month is a time to honour the achievements of black people or formerly oppressed people in whatever shade of skin that have broken free from the status quo and limitations set by the society.
• A few of my personal inspirations are Martin Luther king - political figure in non violent civil rights movement. Oprah Winfrey – Media mogul and philanthropist Nelson Mandela- fought to put an end to the apartheid in south Africa
Chinua Achebe – best selling novelist
Barack Obama – first U.S. president of African origin
Kofi Annan – former un secretary general
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf – First female head of state in Africa.
KERRY HARRISON
PRESIDENT OF EDUCATION AND WELFARE RGU:Union strives to support students in any means possible, including discrimination on campus. We work closely with the university to ensure we have a safe space for all students. Acknowledging Black History Month is an important part of the role the Union plays. It’s a sign of respect to those who have come before us and had a huge impact on today's society. It’s time we use to educate each other and reflect, to inspire and continue to build upon the past.