Today marks the beginning of Black History Month, a nationally-recognised commemoration of the history, achievements and contributions of Black people in the UK and around the world. The month-long celebration is held in October every year and is a chance to reflect on where things stand and to tackle the racism that still exists today.
Bristol is well known as a city rich in Black culture and heritage, with a history of social activism. Just in the last year alone the city honoured the Bristol Bus Boycott pioneers, a movement which sparked a series of equalities acts in the UK in the 1960s and 70s.
We saw one of those pioneers, Dr Paul Stevenson OBE commemorated to mark Pride of Britain’s 25 year anniversary. The civil rights campaigner, also remembered for his sit-in at the Bay Horse Pub in the annual lecture series, named after him that took place in Bristol earlier this year.
While the achievements of past and present Black communities in Bristol are quite rightly celebrated- the riots over the summer show there is still work to be done to achieve racial equality. Those from Bristol’s Black community joined crowds of all backgrounds in a huge demonstration in defence of an immigration law firm in Old Market and Stapleton Road- which many said gave them a restored sense of hope.
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For Black History Month 2024, the theme ‘reclaiming narratives’ aims to invite people from the Black community to tell the story of their history from their own perspective. Two events, set to fulfil this theme are the ‘Windrush Front room’ starting today and this Saturday the first in a series of weekly Black history events taking place at the Kuumba centre throughout October.
Look out for our coverage throughout the month which will include special events, interviews with inspiring Black Bristolians, nostalgia pieces on some of the less well known stories that form part of Bristol’s history alongside the celebration of some of Bristol’s best Black-owned businesses. If you have a story, event or know of a local business that you think should be featured in Bristol Live’s 2024 Black History Month coverage you can email the newsdesk or individual reporters directly here.