For a variety of reasons each year Black History Month arrives with controversy. I agree with those who bemoan the packaging of Black history into one month. To us it can feel like it is too neatly commodified and just like a Christmas tree put back into a box for the rest of the year. At these times I reflect on several conversations that have helped me to put Dr Carter G Woodson’s words into action.
In Bristol we have a vibrant Black community who this year honoured the Bristol Bus Boycott, the 75th anniversary of Windrush and St Pauls Carnival. Our communities across the African diaspora have centuries of contribution, connections and activism from their diverse histories across continents.
Every year I meet people without that rooted knowledge to their Black heritage. For them Black History Month (BMH) provides a gateway of entry. A white parent who raised their dual-heritage child once pointed out to me that there was nothing in the curriculum to help their child deal with their self-esteem following a bout of racism. One young Black man, who had grown up in the countryside once confided to me that BHM had helped him better understand his identity. Through BHM both found new networks, support and cultural reference points. Windrush 75 Chair Patrick Vernon OBE said ‘BMH has influenced and inspired the equalities world to organise similar months, exposing hidden and excluded histories.’ These include LGBTQ, Disabled and Women’s History Months.
Of course, we can’t confine anybody’s history to a day, week or month one month. I respect anyone taking the knee and sitting out BHM 2023, whilst they ensure Black history is represented throughout the year. For me, there is a practical and pragmatic need to do both. To ensure that the culture that gives us all so much inspiration and pride reaches as many influencers and audiences as possible. Post pandemic and with those seeking to divide, we need every opportunity to bring us together. United we can tackle new emerging themes of intersectionality and demographic changes within and beyond our communities.
The Rewarding Gap is just one area UWE Bristol and academia need to address in tackling structural racism in Britain. BHM on its own isn’t going to overturn decades of injustice but we can make a compelling case for achievement and celebration. At a recent community conference our communities bemoaned that too many of our Black and Brown young men are in enrolled in the judicial system than studying in higher education. Until that set of circumstances changes every action and every opportunity must be tried and taken. Black History Month can build awareness and as an engagement campaign to fight against the daily injustices of racism during October and …all year round!
Dr Roger Griffith MBE, UWE Bristol Lecturer, Author and CEO Creative Connex CIC