Be Inspired - Black History Month 2018

Monday 22-10-2018 - 13:00
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Black History Month means different things to different people, and pride for this month is expressed in a number of ways. For me, it’s a month to recognise and reflect on the people of colour that paved the way for all of us today. We recognise them for their hard work, tears, and remember those who gave their lives fighting for equality. It’s a time to reflect, rejoice and learn from the history of our ancestors.

It’s vital that we take the time to celebrate this notable occasion. We should reflect on the diverse history of those from African and Caribbean decent, and take note of their achievements and contributions to the social, political, economic and cultural development of the community. Digging up the overlooked stories can take time and effort, the payoff is a more comprehensive understanding of what the past really looked like. Honouring the struggles and triumphs of the African Caribbean community – especially those that may have been erased from history – is the best way to show respect and recognition to one's ancestors.

Black history is more than just what we tell children so they know about slavery and oppressive systems. It’s more than what we base the present day on, in order to form and construct our social norms. It’s a very strong source from which people draw their identities.

I want to see people embracing their ancestors history and how hard it was to get to where we are now. I want to see fewer black people disproportionately targeted by police brutality. Change, however small or big, as long as it is for the better, will be beneficial for future generations. Our ancestors gave us opportunities that they didn’t have – we owe it to them to keep progressing, in order to remember and continue the legacy that some of them died for.

There are many events and activities taking place during Black History Month that people can attend all over the country, including Manchester. People can find black history in their local community – it’s everywhere, but we don't always recognise it. You can visit the Central Library and take a free tour of their archives, which has so much information about black history. Or, some people prefer to support black non-profit organisations such as Black Lives Matter and Campaign Zero – that work to end police brutality, which disproportionately targets the black community. Or support the NAACP, which supports political, educational, social, and economic equality of the black community.

Be inspired this October. Whether it be by Martin Luther King – a pivotal figure in the non-violent civil rights movement during the 1950’s and 1960’s. Or by Nelson Mandela, who spent most of his life campaigning for an end to apartheid in South Africa. Or a more recent inspiration, the first black president himself, Barack Obama. Whomever you choose to be inspired by isn’t the point – the idea is that you are inspired by someone and that you understand what the month is about.

Udacha Bangura

Find out more about Black History Month at The Union here.

 

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