Birmingham Black History Month programme 2017 by Wes Fife

FRI 29 SEP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; TUE 31 OCT

2017 EVENT PROGRAMME birminghamblackhistorymonth.co.uk

Collecting Birmingham: extraordinary lives of everyday people

This exhibition showcases photographs by Vanley Burke, treasured possessions from community activist Mrs McGhie-Belgrave, and placards from the recent Black Lives Matter protests.

Soho House, Soho Avenue (off Soho Road), Handsworth, Birmingham B18 5LB Exhibition runs until Thu 26 Oct 2017 Open on Wednesdays, Thursdays and the first Sunday of the month | 11am - 4pm | Free entry

birminghammuseums.org.uk Funded by:

Image: courtesy of Vanley Burke ÂŠ the artist.

FOREWORD

By Councillor Ian Ward Deputy Leader, Birmingham City Council

This year marks 30 years since Black History Month was first celebrated in the UK and Birmingham City Council since the mid 1990s, is proud to support this important feature of the city’s event calendar. Birmingham holds its diversity dear (we are the most diverse core city in the UK) and the City Council is mindful of the need to reflect on its development, to learn new and inspiring stories, and include as many people as possible in considering the impact of black history on our identity in the 21st Century. Throughout October residents and visitors will be able to take part in various cultural activities. This year’s theme is an extension from last year ‘The Voice of Black Music Icons’ and I congratulate Mykal Wassifa Brown CIC and Birmingham Blackstory Partnership which includes PFG Consultancy and Inspiring a New Generation who have compiled an exciting programme of events. The month of activity will be one of true celebration, vibrancy and uplifting content and a great opportunity to particularly engage and educate more young people in Black History Month. A number of other organisations across the city - including The University of Birmingham - are also supporting Black History Month with a calendar of events, and we applaud and welcome their contributions. I am confident that this programme will appeal to a wide range of tastes and interests and hope that 2017 will be another successful year for this important initiative.

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W E L COM E

Mykal Wassifa Brown CIC & Blackstory Partnership Mykal Wassifa Brown CIC and Blackstory Partnership - Inspiring a New Generation and PFG Consultancy - aims to respect the Black History narrative by way of celebrating and acknowledging the achievements, contributions and struggles of Black people. Building on the successes of Black History Month 2016, Mykal Wassifa Brown CIC working together with Blackstory Partnership has enabled us to develop and deliver Birmingham Black History Month 2017 with new ways of programming local black artists, performers, contributors and celebrating the history and culture of our black communities of Birmingham. As partners we intend to continue to uplift, empower and encourage our communities through this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Black History Month launch event and our diverse and distinctive events programme. We hope to continue to celebrate Birminghamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Black History narrative for a further 30 years.

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WaterAid / Abir Abdullah

FRI 29 SEP 6PM – 10PM

THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF

PARTNERS

PFG

CONSULTANCY

The official launch of Birmingham Black History Month 2017 will take place on Friday 29 September at South & City College Birmingham, Digbeth Campus, B5 5SU. Mykal Wassifa Brown CIC and Blackstory Partnership - Inspiring a New Generation and PFG Consultancy - are the partners responsible for the production of Birmingham’s Black History Month 2017 Brochure and orchestrating BHM launch Event. Our aim is to respect the Black History narrative by way of celebrating and acknowledging the achievements, contributions and struggles of Black people. We hope we have achieved one aim through the publication this year’s BHM brochure. As we celebrate 30 years of Black History Month acknowledgement in the United Kingdom, our launch program will reflect this iconic milestone by recreating a magical moment in music history and future history. This Train - Sister Rosetta Tharpe and the Story of the Song written by Jude Freeman. Before there was Elvis there was Chuck… before there was Chuck there was Sister Rosetta Tharpe. This Train rolls back the years to Sister Rosetta’s 1964 Granada Television, appearance on the platform of a disused railway station in Manchester. Here the guitar playing godmother of rock and roll takes us further back in time to tell the story of the music she pioneered featuring musical tributes from local artists, accompanied by a live band. Interpretation of the Youth An array of young talented artists from Wassifa Youth Project will showcase their knowledge and recognition of Black History through performances of inspirational songs, spoken word and dance. This double-bill launch program will empower, enthuse and motivate all of our guests. If you are interested in attending BHM launch and would like to reserve a FREE ticket please visit:  brumbhm2017launchrsvp.eventbrite.com South & City College Birmingham Digbeth Campus, High Street Deritend, Birmingham B5 5SU

WEEK

ONE

TWO

WEEK

P 18-20

P 22-27

P 6-12

P 13-15

THREE FOUR EXHIBITIONS P 28-29

EVENTS P 30

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WEEK

ONE SAT 30 SEP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SUN 8 OCT

TIMELINE 6

BLACK PRESENCE IN BIRMINGHAM 1700S PRE 1948 WINDRUSH

SAT 30 SEP

SUN 1 OCT

11AM – 3PM

8AM – 8PM

MAGNIFICENT WOMEN AND THEIR FLYING MACHINES

‘MAKE THE DREAM REAL’ VOWS COMMUNITY GOT TALENT SHOWCASE, FAMILY HEALTH & WELLBEING DAY

Girls will; Research and investigate Black Women in Aviation and Aerospace engineering over the past 100 years and add what you find to Wikipedia! Here you will have the opportunity to Build replica Aircraft Wings; hear an inspirational talks from Women in Aerospace/Aeronautical engineering. FREE (donations welcome) ER Mason Youth Centre 40 Irvine Street, Birmingham B1 1DH  For more information Black.steam@outlook.com  magnificentwomenbhm.eventbrite.co.uk

VOWS Community Enterprise CIC in Association with Soho 1st Community Development Trust has organized an event celebrating Black History, Heritage, Culture, Legacy and our community diversity. Activities taking place will be indoor and outdoor exhibitions, live performances, prize raffle and a lot more... Opening Ceremony 12.30PM FREE (donations welcome) The New Bingley Hall 1 Hockley Circus, Birmingham B18 5PP  vows4uenterprise.co.uk

SAT 30 SEP

7.30PM

STREETS PAVED WITH GOLD BY VICTOR RICHARDS Augustus Cleveland Johnson arrived in London at Tilbury Docks in 1948. This is a story of his humble beginnings in the mother land. Share his journey, struggles, triumphs, hopes and aspirations. Supported by Reggae & Jazz Singer Yaz Alexander. Tickets £10 RJJZ Jazz Café Bar Arch24, 208 Livery Street, Birmingham B3 1EU BOX OFFICE 07786853232  vjaytheatre.net

1749 A BLACK SLAVE WAS WORKING AS A FURNACEMAN IN SLITTING MILL OF CHARLES AND SAMPSON LLOYD, TWO QUAKER BROTHERS.

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SUN 1 OCT

WED 4 OCT

12PM – 3PM Please contact venue for exact timings

12PM – 1PM

AFRICAN OASIS

THE DIVERSITY BARGAIN: AND OTHER

Do you remember the Handsworth Cultural Centre corner of Wellington Rd and Hamstead Rd? Join Brian Homer, Prof. Roger Shannon and Director Yugesh Walia for a rare screening of African Oasis, 1982, a film about the centre, followed by a discussion and pop up display. FREE Soho House Museum Soho Avenue, Birmingham B18 5LB For more information ring 0121 348 8150  birminghammuseums.org.uk/soho/whats-on  vividprojects.org.uk

DILEMMAS OF RACE, ADMISSIONS AND MERITOCRACY AT ELITE UNIVERSITIES

NATASHA WARIKOO

SUN 1 OCT

6PM – 8.30PM

FREEDOM – THE BLACK HISTORY EXPERIENCE

Freedom is a Black History production which will be kicking off Black History Month October 2017. We aim to provide an entertainment filled evening suitable for all the family, with a variety of creative arts to commemorate black events and achievements over the centuries. TICKETS / ADULT - £13 / CHILDREN UNDER 13 - £7.50 CHILDREN UNDER 4 - FREE Crescent Theatre Brindleyplace, Sheepcote Street, Birmingham B16 8AE BOX OFFICE 0121 643 5858  For more information email Amproductions865@gmail.com

1773 ANN PINARD A ‘BLACK’ WAS BURIED IN ST PHILIPS CATHERDRAL , NOTHING ELSE WAS KNOWN OF ANN.

How do students at elite universities make sense of the admissions process, given the loud public critiques they hear? The Diversity Bargain draws on interviews with students at top American and British universities - Harvard, Brown, and Oxford - to reveal just how winners of supposedly meritocratic systems make sense of those systems. Keynote speaker, Natasha Warikoo, from Harvard University illuminates how students think about race, showing that students’ conceptions of race are deeply tied to their beliefs about fairness in admissions.  FREE event but please register at: cree@contacts.bham.ac.uk Centre for Research in Race and Education School of Education, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT BOX OFFICE 0121 414 5839

1774 GEORGE PITT CHARRY WAS BURIED AT ST MARTINS ON 10TH FEBRUARY WAS DESCRIBED AS ‘A BLACK BACHELOR’

WED 4 OCT

6PM

7.30PM – 10.30PM

DESIBITION

WEDNESDAY MIC FEVER AT MANGO LOUNGE PRESENTS BLACK HISTORY

SAFFIYAH KHAN

Join SAFFIYAH KHAN for the opening of her first major photography exhibition, DESIBITION. This free interactive launch event features Birmingham’s freshest artist/activist in conversation, live performances from local emerging artists and a free buffet. FREE Concord Youth Centre Claremont Rd, Birmingham B11 1LF BOX OFFICE 0121 224 7444

Miss Culture Jam invites you to come and join us in Celebration of our Special Black History Month show of mixed genre in performance poetry/spoken word, oral tradition with African drumming, singing, dancing, drama, live music, DJ and lots more. This welcoming and well-loved venue is a place where artists can showcase their talents to ‘edutain’. Stalls are available with cultural products for sale which adds to the ambience of the evening. ADMISSION £3 Mango Lounge 118 Aldridge Road, Perry Barr B42 2TP For more Information ring 077141 25022  missculturejamlyricsforlife.co.uk

 punch-records.co.uk

THU 5 OCT

5.30PM – 8PM

MOONLIGHT (2016) FILM Writer/director Barry Jenkins’ astonishing film “Moonlight” (2016), is both proudly black and refreshingly queer. Told in three periods, the film chronicles childhood, adolescence and burgeoning adulthood of a young, African-American, gay man growing up in America. Q&A after screening on issues raised in the film. Light refreshments. FREE Contact Box Office to confirm location University of Birmingham, Edgbaston Birmingham B15 2TT BOX OFFICE 0121 414 7947  lgbtq@contacts.bham.ac.uk

1778 JACOBA SWELLENGREBEL LIVED IN HANDSWORTH, HER FATHER WAS DUTCH AND HER MOTHER INDIAN.

1789 OLAUDAH EQUIANO VISITED BIRMINGHAM AS PART OF HIS CAMPAIGN AGAINST SLAVERY AND THE SLAVE TRADE.

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THU 5 OCT

FRI 6 OCT

6PM

7PM – 2AM

DESIBITION

MUSIC INDUSTRY MIXER

Join SAFFIYAH KHAN for the opening of her first major photography exhibition. This free interactive launch event features Birmingham’s freshest artist/ activist in conversation, live performance from local emerging artist and a free buffet. FREE The Lighthouse Young People’s Centre 200 Alma Way, Birmingham, B19 2LN Box office 0121 224 7444  For more information email jadieal.millwood@ birmingham.gov.uk  punch-records.co.uk

A Black History Month Special Launch aimed at artists in the Urban Music sector. Chance for singers, rappers, producers, audio engineers, dancers, videographers and managers to meet and network. Opportunities to promote your services, expert industry panel, inspirational talks, competitions and an after party. TICKETS: EARLY BIRD - £5 / GENERAL - £8 / DOOR PRICE - £12 Fleet St Kitchen Fleet St, Birmingham B3 1JH Box Office No 07517704990  For more information email jclivelounge@gmail.com  mimbrum.eventbrite.com

SAT 7 OCT

1PM – 5.30PM

I AM PHENOMENAL Birmingham’s No 1 motivation, empowerment & community networking event, designed to inspire. Motivational speakers, life coaches, debates, real people sharing real stories and stall holders selling food, jewellery, cultural clothing + more. Discounts for groups, students and children. TICKETS: NUS - £5 / 11-15 YEAR OLDS - £5 / ADULTS - £7 BUY 3 ADULT TICKETS GET 1 FREE Novotel Hotel 70 Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2HT  To book tickets email eventbrite.com/e/i-am-phenomenaltickets-36772467440  chantelsachanna.com

1800S BLACK PEOPLE HAD ESTABLISHED BUSINESS IN BIRMINGHAM DURING 19TH CENTURY. WILLIAM DAVIDSON SET UP BUSINESS IN BIRMINGHAM AS A CABINET MAKER IN EARLY 1800S.

SAT 7 OCT

2PM - 5PM

7PM

ABI’S COMMUNITY MARKET

MILK RIVER FAMILY TREE FOUNDATION CULTURAL EVENING DINNER AND DANCE

A local event in a community venue showcasing local people who will be displaying products and promoting services available to the public. Includes health & wellbeing products to sample, Cultural Arts & Crafts demonstrated and for sale: Community Services available. FREE Laurel Road Community Sport Centre Laurel Road, Handsworth, Birmingham B21 9PB  For more information email abicommunitymarkets@gmail.com

SAT 7 OCT

DOORS & OPEN MIC SIGN UP 6.30PM - 7.30PM

WILE OUT

“Gwarn get seen make a scene wile out” Ms Dynamite. A new open mic night based in Birmingham featuring some of the UK’s most talented women across a variety of creative industries. A discussion fueled night of performances, short films and live art. ADMISSION £5 3Threes Coffee Lounge 17 - 19 Martineau Way, Birmingham B2 4UW  For more information info@namiwajazz.com  namiwachangeformation.co.uk

1808 THE REGISTER OF ST PHILIP’S CHURCH CONTAINS THE RECORD OF JOANNA CRUZ A BLACK WOMAN WHO WAS BURIED ON 19 OCTOBER 1808.

Cultural Evening Dinner and Dance in celebration of Black History. Three course traditional Caribbean meal with entertainment from Peter Spence, Yashema McLeod, Mel Day, Mabowunje Harrison and the Adventist Choir Erdington (ACE). Performance from dance troupe ‘Street Hype’. TICKETS ADULTS - £45 SENIOR CITIZENS - £40 CHILDREN (12 YEARS & UNDER) - £25 The H Suite (formally the Centennial Centre/ The Venue), 100, Icknield Port Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B16 0AA To book tickets ring Vionel - 07867973281 Tony - 07979944089 Andy - 07722089666 Maxine - 07920825904 Joy - 07940348205  For more information email mrftf@btinternet.com

PETER SPENCE

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SAT 7 OCT

12PM

12NOON & 2PM

ROOTED TOGETHER AS ONE CULTURAL AND MUSICAL GALA

KWESI EDUCATION PROJECT AFRICAN HISTORY STUDIES COURSE

A musical, performing and food gala with live band, children acts, talent show of black Caribbean, African and Asian acts “Rooted together as One”. TICKETS £10 Our Roots Centre 20 Holyhead Road, Handsworth, Birmingham B21 0LT  For more information email Barbra.kalinda@ourrootscic.co.uk  ourrootscic.co.uk

SAT 7 OCT

7.30PM

KWESI Education Project started over twenty years ago as an organisation providing support to black children. African History Studies will be starting October 2017. Initial course is for 12 weeks including topics like Introduction to African History; A general History of the Nile Valley; African Civilisations on the Asian Continent. Malika House 81 George Street, Birmingham B19 1NS  For more information about fees and topics email heh@hotmail.co.uk or sasolomonx@aol.com

UPFRONT COMEDY Upfront Comedy “the most enterprising black comedy promoters in the country” (The Guardian) was set up in 1992 by comedian John Simmit, best known for playing Dipsy in BBC TV’s international phenomenon Teletubbies. Acts include Annette Fagon, Kane Brown and Vince Atta. TICKETS £12/£10 mac Birmingham Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH BOX OFFICE NO. 0121 446 3232  macbirmingham.co.uk

1821 A CHURCH RECORD OF ST MARTINS STATES THE ADULT BAPTISM OF MUSICIAN LEVI BALDWIN ON 10 APRIL 1821. THE RECORD MENTIONS 12 THAT HE WAS A ‘MAN OF COLOUR’.

JOHN SIMMIT

WEEK

TWO MON 9 OCT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SUN 15 OCT

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MON 9 OCT – SAT 14 OCT

MON 9 OCT – TUE 10 OCT

HAIRSPRAY

FREEMAN

Baltimore,1962. Tracy Turnblad is a big girl with big hair and an even bigger dream, to dance her way onto TV, and into the heart of Link Larkin. Tracy’s audition makes her a star and soon she is using her new-found fame to fight for racial integration. TICKETS FROM £19.50 5% TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES (EXCL. CASH SALES IN PERSON)

Birmingham Hippodrome Hurst Street, Southside, Birmingham B5 4TB BOX OFFICE 0844 338 5000 CALLS COST 4.45P PER MIN PLUS YOUR PHONE COMPANY’S ACCESS CHARGE

 birminghamhippodrome.com

Spanning from segregated 1846 America right up to the death of Sarah Reid in the UK in 2016, Freeman features a mix of high-energy physical theatre, acappella singing, humour and powerful drama to create an extraordinarily moving and affecting experience. TICKETS FROM £10 (FEES MAY APPLY) Birmingham Repertory Theatre Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2EP BOX OFFICE 0121 236 4455  birmingham-rep.co.uk/whats-on/ freeman.html

THU 12 OCT 1PM – 2PM

30 YEARS OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN THE UK – HAS IT MADE A DIFFERENCE? Join us for a discussion on the impact of Black History Month in the UK. What have we learnt from the last 30 years and what do we need to do in order to shape and sustain Black History Month in the future? FREE

bamenetwork

BAME NETWORK

Empowering Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic staff in the workplace

Ring 0121 415 8183 to confirm room location University of Birmingham Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT BOX OFFICE 0121 415 8138 bamestaff@contacts.bham.ac.uk

THU 12 OCT

SAT 14 & SAT 28 OCT

7.45PM

3PM – 4.30PM

ARUN GHOSH

BLACK BRITISH HISTORY FAMILY WORKSHOP

An introduction to Black British History followed by a practical workshop fleshing out the life of a historical figure. For children aged between 8 -17 must be accompanied by an adult. FREE BUT BOOKING ESSENTIAL Library of Birmingham Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2ND BOX OFFICE 0121 242 4242  libraryofbirmingham.com Award-winning and international clarinetist Arun Ghosh returns to mac with new music, sounds and album, The Man From Far Away. Revealing his ‘indie-kid’ Manchester musical upbringing, the new material marks Ghosh’s move away from his trademark IndoJazz sound towards more song-like structures and psychedelic textures. TICKETS £12/£10 mac Birmingham Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH BOX OFFICE 0121 446 3232  macbirmingham.co.uk

SAT 14 OCT

8PM

BILMANKHWE: THE TEMPEST Revenge is the name of the game in this gripping Shakespearean comedy of magic, betrayal, fear and redemption. This pared-down, intense, urban production of Shakespeare’s last play features the stunning contemporary African dance choreography of Shyne Phiri. TICKETS £15 / £13.50, 12+ mac Birmingham Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH BOX OFFICE 0121 446 3232  macbirmingham.co.uk

1851 THE 1851 CENSUS ON 30TH AND 31ST MARCH, FOUR ‘KAFFIRS’, TWO MEN, A WOMAN LODGING AT 201 LIVERY STREET, KAFFIRS WAS A HIGHLY DEROGATORY TERM FOR BLACK PEOPLE, THERE WERE BLACK SOUTH AFRICANS.

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Mykal Wassifa Brown the owner of Wassifa Sound System has used his wealth of experience through music to create this company, which is led by music and education. The company services the community nationwide and is affiliated to Wassifa Inspire, Mykal Wassifa Brown Heritage Foundation, Wassifa Caribbean Show/Reaching Out. Wassifa Young Roots Project and Wassifa Showcase.

Wassifa Inspire was at Soho House, more famously known as the home to Matthew Boulton. BMAG (Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery) which provided the space for Wassifa Inspire and Ladywood Arts Forum to create a community exhibition for two months.

Wassifa Inspire’s flagship is situated on the British Waterways. The project has officially adopted three miles of canal through the Canal and Rivers trust.

1847 ADVERTISEMENT HELD IN THE CITY ARCHIVES FOR THE PERFORMANCES OF THE FEMALE AMERICAN SERENADERS AT THE TOWN HALL ON 9 JUNE 1847, DEPICTS SEVEN ‘COLOURED’ LADIES WHO WERE MUSICIANS.

The Mykal Wassifa Brown Heritage Foundation devised a touring exhibition and online site consisting of oral histories, music, film, publications and photography, celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Wassifa Sound System. The heritage project was aligned with their 40-year history, during which time they have been instrumental in the development and rise of reggae music in the city of Birmingham, regionally, nationally and internationally. Picture taken from our display in Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery Black History Month 2016

CURRENTLY WORKING ON OUR HOME FROM HOME PROJECT When you see the Wassifa Showcase sign, you will know it is the Entertainment element of the company. Wassifa Showcase host premium Events. These events are meticulously coordinated by our Production Manager Jahmi Williams who is also successful in the production of many Urban International Concert and Events nationwide. Our productions include shows like The Beres Hammond & Chronixx Tour, summer 2017 Reggae Summer fest that included Shabba Ranks & Maxi Priest, not forgetting the exceptional recent Jamaica Independence in Victoria Square, Birmingham 2017.

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE WASSIFA.ORG 1851 IN THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIRMINGHAM FEMALE SOCIETY FOR THE RELIEF OF BRITISH NEGRO SLAVES MENTIONS THE VISIT OF TWO BLACK INDIVIDUALS, DR PENNINGTON AND REV H H GARNET.

This a multi-generational performance programme, bringing cultural stories to life. Through drama, dance and music the theme of ‘home’ is explored through the eyes of different cultural groups

EVENT NOT TO MISS… December 31st 2017 The New Year’s Eve Red Carpet Ball, The H Suite, Edgbaston, Birmingham…… full details coming soon….

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WEEK

THREE MON 16 OCT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SUN 22 OCT

TUE 17 OCT

WED 18 – SAT 21 OCT

8PM – 11PM

WED - SAT 7.30PM / SAT 2.30PM

AN EVENING WITH JUNE SARPONG

ACOSTA DANZA

From TV presenter and co-founder of the Women: Inspiration and Enterprise Network, June Sarpong MBE, comes an intelligent and empowering polemic which argues the case for how limited we are by social division while inspiring us to make a change. FREE (must book in advance) Waterstones Birmingham 24-26 High Street, Birmingham B4 7SL BOX OFFICE 0121 633 4353  waterstones.com/events/an-eveningwith-june-sarpong/birmingham

International dance icon Carlos Acosta launches his brand new company, Acosta Danza. Based in Havana, the company is made up of the best dancers Cuba. They will perform pieces by Cuban and international choreographers who will take inspiration from their iconic nation. TICKETS FROM £12 5% TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES (EXCL. CASH SALES IN PERSON)

Birmingham Hippodrome Hurst Street, Southside, Birmingham B5 4TB BOX OFFICE 0844 338 5000 CALLS COST 4.5P PER MIN. PLUS YOUR PHONE COMPANY’S ACCESS CHARGE

 birminghamhippodrome.com

1869 JOSEPH SALTER, A CHRISTIANS MISSIONARY, ON TOUR AROUND BRITAIN ‘ IN SEARCH OF THE WANDERING ASIATIC’ FOUND THREE LODGING HOUSES IN BIRMINGHAM FOR INDIANS, SOME OF THE ASIAN PEOPLE WERE PROFESSIONALS, STUDENTS OR FORMER SAILORS.

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th mon 19

THU 19 OCT

FRI 20 OCT

7PM

6.30PM

JAMILA JOHNSON-SMALL: I RIDE IN COLOUR AND SOFT FOCUS, NO LONGER ANYWHERE WORLD PREMIERE

I AIN’T MAD AT YA LAUNCH WITH OWN BROOMFIELD AKA HULK

A choreography that prioritises density over going anywhere, noise over silence, now over yesterday and pleasure over doing it right. A meditation on osmosis and internalisation, the responsibilities of blackness and queerness, the pressure to ‘take space’. TICKETS £10/£9, 14+ mac Birmingham Cannon Hill Park Birmingham B12 9QH BOX OFFICE 0121 446 3232  macbirmingham.co.uk ‘I Ain’t Mad at Ya’ offers a rare insight into Birmingham’s black community, it shines a light on the vast amount of black music culture produced in the vibrant suburb of Handsworth and the role its musicians and entrepreneurs have played in shaping and influencing popular music in the UK. TICKETS £3 Waterstones Birmingham 24-26 High Street, Birmingham B4 7SL BOX OFFICE 0121 633 4353  waterstones.com/events/i-aint-mad-atya-launch/birmingham

1870 A HINDU REFORMER NAMED BABOO KESHUB CHUNDER SEN PREACHED AT THE CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH, BROAD ST, AS PART OF HIS TOUR OF BIRMINGHAM.

During World War One, manpower was drawn from the UK, Caribbean, South Africa and many other places within the British Empire. They were essential to the war effort, today they are all but forgotten. They served and they suffered. Many died. They are The Unremembered. Join The Unremembered project with your community group or school to hold activities to remember this important contribution to the First World War. Small-scale funding is available.

J o i n t h e p ro j e c t b y e m a i l i n g : t h e u n re m e m b e re d @ b i g i d e a s c o m p a n y. o r g

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th mon 21

SUN 22 OCT – THU 26 OCT

BLACK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

VENUES

The 11th Black International Film Festival (BIFF) celebrates diversity and inclusion with an exciting programme of shorts, features, documentaries and foreign language films telling stories of our past, present and future. Festival a well known international event attracting top celebrities and individuals from across the UK and the world. BIFF makes use of arts and cinematic venues around the city.

Mockingbird Cinema The Custard Factory, Gibb St, Birmingham B9 4AA mac Birmingham Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH TICKETS 5 DAY PASS - £25 SINGLE TICKET - £9

22 OCT 7PM

BIFFestival.co.uk

DETROIT Directed by award-winner Kathryn Bigelow, Detroit was released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Algiers Motel Incident from July 1967, where three teenagers, all of them black, were tortured and killed by police during the racially charged 12th Street Riot.

23 OCT 6.30PM

THE GLOBAL VILLAGE BIFF opens its season of films with Full Service, the short film that challenges stereotypes and the visually stunning documentary, Homelands from Jaha Browne and Punch Records. Follow four of the UKs top artists – Diztortion, Shakka, Saskilla and Terri Walker, who will be joining the director for Q&A, as they travel back to their respective in Jamaica, Senegal, Dominica and Suriname. Followed by Directors Q&A and a live acoustic set.

24 OCT 7PM

IN HER SHOES BIFF collection of festival films at mac Birmingham kicks off with a witty coming of age story in We Love Moses, fashionforward festival hit Proclamation Punctuation, critically acclaimed foreign film Nkosi Coiffure, festival smash 1745 one woman tale of mixed racial heritage and reconciliation One Drop of Love by playwright Fanshen Cox DiGiovanni. Followed by Directors Q&A and a live acoustic set.

25 OCT 1.30PM MATINEE PRESENTATION:

NO VISA REQUIRED BIFF brings a collection of Stateside shorts by up and coming US filmmakers including sci-fi smash See You Yesterday, college drama Blake’s World, moral dilemma To Those With Good Intent and a tale of segregation in Rolling In The Deep. noma (forgiving apartheid), which documents London-based award-winning actress Noma Dumwenzi.

1871 HENRY BROWN ‘MAN OF COLOUR’ WAS LODGING WITH MCHUGH FAMILY AT 159 MOSELEY ST. HE WORKED AS A COACHMAN, DRIVING THE ROUTE FROM MOSELEY TO THE CITY CENTRE.

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MON 23 OCT

1.15PM – 2.15PM

BLACK HISTORY MONTH: THE DANFORD COLLECTION OF WEST AFRICAN ART AND ARTEFACTS 25 OCT 7PM

WHAT IS A MAN? BIFF challenges the audience to reconsider stereotypical portrayals of men in this selection of short films showcasing some of Birmingham’s finest filmmakers. Featuring tales of timetravel in Graycon, affairs of the heart in Art of Love and Broken, life or death struggle in Hands Up Don’t Shoot, black fathers in A Man Called Dad, and the whimsical yet gritty Reverie. Followed by Directors Q&A.

26 OCT 6.30PM

WE ARE ONE BIFF closes with a powerful collection of short films capturing the modern day impact of global terrorism in Voice from 10,000 miles, the poignant retelling in C’est Moi of the forgotten story of Marie-Josèphe Angélique, her fight against slavery in 18th Century New France. Our closing feature, Six Rounds is set against the backdrop of the 2011 London Riots.

The Danford Collection of West African Art and Artefacts celebrates the extensive cultural traditions and artistic expression of West Africa. You will have the chance to handle a range of objects from the collection. FREE Danford Museum Arts Building, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT  For more information email n.awal@bham.ac.uk  researchandculturalcollections. eventbrite.com

1889 REVEREND PETER STANFORD, AN ORDAINED PASTOR OF ZION BAPTIST CHURCH IN CONNECTICUT, TRAVELLED TO THE MIDLANDS IN 1888, MARRIED MABLE STCKLEY, THEN SETTLED IN BIRMINGHAM, BECAME PASTOR OF HOPE STREET BAPTIST CHURCH IN MAY 1889..

TUE 24 OCT

8PM

1.10PM - 1.50PM

LEMN SISSAY: SOMETHING DARK

TOUR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM’S CADBURY RESEARCH LIBRARY

A rare chance to see a dramatic reading of the acclaimed one-man play by celebrated performance poet, Lemn Sissay. It tells the story of his upbringing in children’s homes and foster care, and the search for his family and true identity. TICKETS £15 / £13.50 mac Birmingham Cannon Hill Park Birmingham B12 9QH BOX OFFICE 0121 446 3232  macbirmingham.co.uk

Find out about a Special Collections archive and rare book department? Find out more on our free guided tour. See ‘behind the scenes’ in our conservation studio, our research facilities. View some of the archives and rare books we hold relating to Black History. TOURS ARE FREE BUT LIMITED TO 12 PEOPLE. Must book a place Cadbury Research Library Special Collections, Muirhead Tower (LG Floor), University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT BOX OFFICE 0121 414 5839  To book a place email special-collections@bham.ac.uk  birmingham.ac.uk/crl

1913 IN A VOLUME OF PHOTOGRAPHS OF INDIVIDUALS AND SCHOOLS, THERE IS A PHOTOGRAPH OF NELSON STREET GIRL’S SCHOOL IN WINSON GREEN, THE PHOTOGRAPH INCLUDES A ‘BLACK’ GIRL.

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TUE 24 OCT

FRI 27 OCT

11AM, 11.30AM, 2PM, 2.30PM *

2PM & 8PM

BLACK BRITISH POETRY WORKSHOP

KAHAANI (STORY) AT BEDLAM ARTS AND MENTAL HEALTH FESTIVAL 2017

An introductory workshop for children and young people aged 7-17. Participants will learn about a historical Black British character and create a group poem. FREE NO BOOKING REQUIRED Library of Birmingham Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2ND BOX OFFICE 0121 242 4242  For more information email childrens.library@birmingham.gov.uk  libraryofbirmingham.com

*Each session runs for 30 minutes

Kahaani touches on human emotions from childhood through to adult life. Bringing personal stories and anecdotes from mental health service users, connecting with audience members through traditional imagery and language, recipes and cultural celebrations. £5 (£3 CONCESSIONS) Foyle Studio / mac Birmingham Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH BOX OFFICE 0121 446 3232  sampad.org.uk

WED 25 OCT 7PM – 10PM

DO WHAT YOU CAN LAUNCH A relaxed evening of rhythmic spoken word to celebrate the release of ‘Do What You Can’ a debut collection of poetry from Tarik, an emerging Brummie writer and performer. Featuring guest artists and copies of the collection for sale. DONATION - PAY WHAT YOU DECIDE £5 plus a copy of ‘Do What You Can’ booklet mac Birmingham Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH To book visit:  do-what-you-can.eventbrite.com  For more information email Esotarik@outlook.com

1916 THE THEATRE ROYAL, NEW STREET WAS HOME TO A DIVERSE SELECTION OF PERFORMERS SUCH AS WASIES ARMIEL DAVIES, AN AMERICAN ACTOR ‘OF COLOUR’ WHO PERFORMED DURING MAY 1916.

SUN 29 OCT

3PM – 10PM

TICKETS £5 / BOX OFFICE 0121 446 3232 mac Birmingham Cannon Hill Park Birmingham B12 9QH  macbirmingham.co.uk As part of an educational, motivational, informative and intense Black History Month program, Mykal Wassifa Brown CIC & Blackstory Partnerhsip presents an Extravaganza of informative, uplifting and entertaining performances, celebrating Black Heritage and Culture.

BLACK HISTORY IN OUR SCHOOLS CAMPAIGN SEMINAR : LED BY STEPHANIE PITTER Time: 3PM – 4PM / Location: Pinsent Room 1 THIS EVENT IS FREE

WOMEN IN POETRY : FEAT. OLA BROWN, TANYA, EMPRESS P, KEISHA DIAMOND AND MORE Time: 4PM – 5.30PM / Location: Bar Area THIS EVENT IS FREE

FABRIC Time: 6PM – 8.30PM / Location: Main Theatre TICKETS £5 People’s Community Radio presenter, Sister Conscience, dedicates her show to Black British talent and the everyday people and stories that are part of the fabric of this unique culture. Sister Conscious introduces the short, one man play ‘Fabric,’ starring renowned Birmingham playwright, actor and musician, Milton Godfrey. Set in Handsworth’s world famous allotments, ‘Fabric’ tells the story of feuding gardeners, Byron and Duke and their exploits in the run up to the allotment’s annual pumpkin growing contest.

1924 AN EDITION OF THE EVENING MAIL SHOWS AN ADVERT FOR THE INDIAN EYE SPECIALISTS JAHANGIR AND SONS.

‘Fabric’ is a thought provoking and uplifting piece that reminds each of us of our special place within our community. Sister Conscious picks up the pace with her music extravaganza, treating her listeners to the more intimate aspects of the Black British experience or, as she would say, ‘the fabric that binds us together. In her warm and easy manner, our fictional host takes her listeners (the audience) on a trip down memory lane, talking us through live tribute performances from fondly recalled Black British musicians including, Soul II Soul, Althea & Donna, Eric Morrison and Shirley Bassey and more… Written by Jude Freeman, without doubt this uplifting musical theatre encapsulates the Voices of Black British music icons. Supported by

1935 IN THE EVENING DESPATCH, ARTICLE ABOUT DR ALEMKARAM, AN INDIAN WOMAN, VISITING BIRMINGHAM TO STUDY PUBLIC, SOCIAL AND MEDICAL SERVICES, WAS ATTACHED TO THE BIRMINGHAM SETTLEMENT.

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EXHIBITIONS FROM CHIBOK TO CALAIS THU 7 SEPT – SAT 11 NOV 12PM - 5PM TUE - SAT

MADE AT MAC: PAINTING & DRAWING TO MUSIC UNTIL SUN 19 NOV

Facilitated by our Artist Tutor, Saranjit Birdi and using music as an inspiration and guide, students on the Painting & Drawing To Music course produce works inspired by the sounds they are hearing. FREE mac Birmingham Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH For more information call 0121 446 3232  macbirmingham.co.uk

SAMUEL COLERIDGE TAYLOR EXHIBITION MON 2 - TUE 31 OCT 10AM - 4PM

Elements of soil and water are used to navigate the spatial and temporal process of migration by employing a tactile approach to displacement and survival. Bringing together disparate geopolitical concerns, the installation and performance interweaves the various concerns. Sat 21 Oct Live Event Moseley Road Swimming Baths 4PM FREE / EXHIBITION FREE Ort Gallery 500-504 Moseley Road, Birmingham B12 9AH  ortgallery.co.uk

1945 DR DHANI PREM WAS THE FIRST BLACK OR ASIAN IMMIGRANT TO BECOME A BIRMINGHAM CITY COUNCILLOR.

Find out about the life and music of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, a British composer of dual heritage born in London in 1875. His father, a doctor was from Sierra Leone and his mother, was white English. Coleridge -Taylor’s most famous composition “Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast”. In this exhibition, displays of books, articles and music scores. FREE Main University of Birmingham Library University of Birmingham, Edgbaston Campus, Birmingham B15 2TT For more information call 0121 415 8775

1948 EMPIRE WINDRUSH ARRIVES AT TILBURY DOCKS LONDON.

DO YOU, FOR YOU BY TANEISHA DEANS MON 9 OCT TO SAT 4 NOV

THE EXTRAORDINARY LIVES OF EVERYDAY PEOPLE UNTIL 26 OCT WED & THU 11AM – 4PM FIRST SUN OF THE MONTH 11AM – 4PM

BIRMINGHAM AND THE BRITISH EMPIRE: A STORY LAB EXHIBITION SAT 21 OCT – MAR 2018 MON - THU 10AM - 5PM FRI 10.30AM - 5PM SAT AND SUN 10AM - 5PM This Story Lab exhibition is a decolonised look at Birmingham’s relationship to the British Empire, addressing contemporary legacies and untold stories. Created in collaboration with community cocurators, this exhibition will impact the museum’s future, permanent displays about the British Empire. Gallery 15 Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery Chamberlain Square, Birmingham B3 3DH  birminghammuseums. org.uk/ bmag/whats-on

DO YOU, FOR YOU is about art embracing what makes you happy. In the world of TannyTizzle, faces become doodles, doodles become paintings; feelings become poems and poems become stories. Bring your mobile device and interact with the works.

This exhibition explores the extraordinary lives of everyday Birmingham people. Connect and respond to the memories from Jamaica and Bangladesh. See extraordinary lives through Vanley Burke’s lens. Find out how activists have fought for our rights.

FREE

Opening times visit:  thegapartsproject.co.uk

Soho House Soho Avenue, Birmingham B18 5LB

THE GAP The Old Print Works, 498-500 Moseley Road, Birmingham B12 9AH For more information ring 0121 224 7444  punch-records.co.uk

thegapartsproject.co.uk

1949 PAUL ROBESON APPEARED TWICE AT BIRMINGHAM TOWN HALL AS BOTH A SINGER AND CIVIL RIGHTS CAMPAIGNER.

For more information ring 0121 348 8150  birminghammuseums. org.uk/soho/whats-on/ the-extraordinary-lives of-everyday-people Image: courtesy of Vanley Burke © the artist

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EVENTS THE MYBOOKBASKET

STORY TIME

SAT 21 – 28 OCT

SAT 7, 14, 21, 28 OCT

Join MyBookbasket as we celebrate BHM for a week of activities, information and special offers on books, cards, gifts and more Events to include: Storytime special, Oware club, Natural health workshops, book club special, headwrapping sessions, fashion specials, For more information and a timetable of events see our website page or pop into the shop in the Market Village, next to the shoe repair guy. Unit 9 Market Village Onestop Shopping Centre, Perry Barr, Birmingham B42 1AA More information email Contact@mybookbasket.com Telephone 07592 345276 s top

 mybookbasket.com

Britain’

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Saturday story time for seven years and under, featuring Afro-Caribbean stories. No booking required. FREE Library of Birmingham Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2ND For more Information ring 0121 242 4242  libraryofbirmingham.com ISSUE NO. 1780 | MAY 11 - 17, 2017

Britain’s top black weekly

MEETING THE CHAMP: Fans enjoy

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7PM – 8.30PM Drum Together Brum presents fortnightly African Drum Workshops. Every Wednesday, teaching traditional and contemporary styles; Beginners are welcome, all instruments are provided. TICKET £6 11 & 25 Oct at The Royal British Legion Station Road, Kings Heath B14 7SR 4 & 18 Oct at The Zen Shop 3 St, Marys Row, Moseley B13 8HW  Book in advance via website drumtogether.online For more information email bongodamo@gmail.com

JUNE 9 1733 |

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2016

You could be their only hope.

1942

an evening with Anthony Joshua

weekly

Swab to be a Lifesaver

- 15, 2016

Every 20 minutes someone in the UK is diagnosed with a blood cancer, such as leukaemia.

Residen progress lack of

Sign up online for a home swab kit and become a potential blood stem cell donor. Go on standby to save the life of someone just like you.

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WINDRUSH’S DO BLACK UNTOLD STORY MILLENNIALS AVOID CHURCH? A little known part of Caribbean New survey LIFE IN A history VEGETARIAN WORLD aims to ﬁnd out

BOYS TO MEN

Our community should do more to help young boys grow into adulthood

USIV EXCL

Rod Leon

My Man Collection York. Icon for Private New 1969 Gallery, Seale) L. Hendricks – Bobby Barkley Shainman with permission People Used of Jack any Black Courtesy ™ DC Comics. & L. Hendricks.S-Shield © Superman

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Page 22

LIFE & STYLE

The Wheel Deal Jaguar proves champion Page 27

Exercise? Fro-get it!

Keep body and hair beautiful Page 20

Photo credit: Daron Osborne

GROWTH PERSONIFIED

ch week for Read The Voice ea Foundation

Foundation, Luce Foundation, by Ford Henry Tate Patrons, Art and Supported from Members for American support and Tate Saved Never with additional Foundation of Barkley (Superman © Estate Superman Tate Americas

N MO DER TATLE– 22 O C T 2017

of negative media headlines has made our community well aware of the challenges our young men face T TAKES a village to raise a child.’ in successfully reaching adulthood. So goes the age-old African provThis has prompted a debate about erb. how best to support boys in what And in 21st Century Britain it can be a difficult journey from adocan teach us a lot about how to lescence to adulthood. help young black boys develop into Among the organisations leading great young men. the debate on the issue are Origin, In the pre-Windrush era boys in the Reach Society and north LonCaribbean and African communidon’s Manhood Academy. ties grew into adulthood in close proximity to the male adults in their COACHING lives, who would provide guidance Run by a group of black male proon things such as responsibility to volunteers the Manhood one’s family, staying in good health, fessional has developed a unique working towards goals and manag- Academy African focused rites of passage ing money. programme that provides specialist coaching such as resolving conflict, RELATIONSHIPS developing social and emotional However for a multitude of reaintelligence, perseverance in the sons these relationships are not as face of disappointment and prostate strong as they once were. health awareness. And a seemingly endless barrage

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Supported by Ford Foundation, Terra Foundation for American Art and Henry Luce Foundation, with additional support from Tate Patrons, Tate Americas Foundation and Tate Members

12 JUL – 22 OC T 2017

INSIDE

SO U T HWARK

ART IN THE AGE OF BL ACK POWER

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Do you have a question about diabetes? Talk to us. If you have any questions, concerns or feelings about living with diabetes call or email the Diabetes UK Helpline. 0345 123 2399* helpline@diabetes.org.uk 9am–6pm, Monday–Friday *Calls may be recorded for quality and training purposes. A charity registered in England and Wales (215199) and in Scotland (SC039136). © Diabetes UK 2017 1218.

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