October sees the celebration of Black History Month (1 - 31 October). First celebrated in the UK in 1987, Black History Month is an important opportunity to reflect on the diverse histories of those of African and Caribbean descent, taking note of achievements, contributions, and celebrating key figures who have made substantial contributions to the country.
This year’s Black History Month launched with a “Proud to Be” campaign, this new campaign is encouraging people of all ages to share what they are ‘proud to be’ on social media.
In and around Southampton, there are some great events taking place all in celebration of Black History Month.
Join the Black History Month discussion on the Black History Month South Facebook Group.
Celebrate black culture and heritage with a curated list of stories from the African and Caribbean communities exploring and challenging race and racism.
3rd October - 6th November
Join the Hidden Histories Trail, a walking tour around Southampton’s Old Town, where you can learn about the early Black history of the city. The tour starts and finishes at God’s House Tower and is available weekly throughout Black History Month. Find out more.
Tuesday 12th October
In this talk, Professor Kira Thurman explores the long history of Black musicians from the United States and beyond who performed in Germany and Austria during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Tickets are free but booking is required. Find out more.
21st September - 6th November
Saints and Saviours is a new installation by Mary Evans (b. 1963, Lagos, Nigeria) that pays homage to the rich migratory history of the city of Southampton and its people, a history that continues to expand today. The exhibition can be seen at John Hansard Gallery and Marlands Shopping Centre.
19th-23rd October - Mayflower Theatre
The smash-hit 90s movie, My Best Friend’s Wedding, is now a brand-new musical comedy starring Alexandra Burke. The comedy features some of the most iconic songs ever written by the legendary Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Book tickets online to enjoy this wickedly funny musical. Find out more.
19th October - The Joiners
After catching the eye of Beats’ Julie Adenuga for his debut single, Same Faces, he has only gained more attention and support. Over the past 2 years, Jordan has sold out four headline shows in London and been on two headline tours across UK and Europe. Book tickets online. Find out more.
21st October - Mayflower Studios
Rush tells the story of Reggae music and the Windrush Generation, hear how their music took the world by a storm. Get ready to dance to the music of Desmond Dekker, Jimmy Cliff, Bob Marley, and many more. Find out more.
23rd October - The Brook
Get in the Jamaican vibes with this brilliant seven-piece tribute to reggae’s finest playing all the timeless classics. Find out more.
25th October - Mayflower Studios
The theme of this year’s national Black History Month (October) is "Proud to be" and that’s the theme of Our Version Media’s first-ever community stories screening. "Proud to be" will be an evening showcasing and celebrating stories from Southampton's African, Caribbean and Black British communities. It’s the culmination of a month-long Mobile Storytelling programme where participants learned to craft, film, and edit stories using a mobile phone for the very first time. Find out more.
30th October - The Joiners
Hailing from White City, West London, 22-year old rapper Lord Apex has become an underground favourite thanks to his compellingly laid-back style. Championed by the likes of CRACK magazine, KISS FM, and BBC 1Xtra, Apex is starting to make a serious name for himself in the rap world. Find out more.
31st October - Mayflower Theatre
Fresh from her show-stopping Britain’s Got Talent appearance, Belinda Davids returns to the UK with her acclaimed stage show. Whitney Houston’s musical legacy is brought to life in this critically acclaimed tribute show. Find out more.
There are so many events and activities you can be a part of this Black History Month and we look forward to seeing you there.