Thursday 05-10-2023 - 15:05

October marks Black History Month here in the UK and all across the world. This is an opportunity to recognise, appreciate and celebrate Black communities - all they’ve been through and all they’ve achieved and contributed to our society.

The theme for this year's Black History Month is ‘Saluting Our Sisters’; paying homage to Black women, acknowledging the trials they’ve faced, and celebrating the meaningful change and impact they’ve created throughout history.

We've put together a list of ways you can get involved this month - from events and activities, to discussions and easy ways to learn more about Black culture.

 

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🍿Movie Night

 

On Monday 23 October, join The Union as we host a screening of ‘Judas and the black Messiah’. This is a great opportunity to expand your knowledge and enjoy a powerful, true-life film about a piece of Black history, all whilst enjoying some free popcorn and candyfloss.

Entry is free, pre-book a spot now to avoid missing out🎬

 

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📺 Watch a documentary

 

There’s so many documentaries that’re not only entertaining, but really informative and interesting to watch.

If you’re a lover of a true-crime series, take a look at some of the amazing docs out there that explore the injustices and challenges the Black community has faced throughout history. From slavery and segregation to an unjust prison system, these are a great way to develop a better understanding of why we celebrate this month.

Some incredible and thought-provoking docs include ‘13th’ and ‘Who Killed Malcolm X?’ - both available on Netflix.

 

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🏛️Visit a museum

 

Manchester is filled with historical museums and beautiful galleries for you to explore, and during this month you’ll be sure to find plenty of exhibitions celebrating Black excellence.

Manchester Museum is hosting a variety of events in honour of this month, such as:

+ Black Creative Soirée - 27 October - A black-tie event designed to celebrate a whole host of Black creatives, including fashion designers, poets, musicians and artists, as they showcase their work. Browse stalls from Black-owned businesses and enjoy unique performances throughout the evening.

You can buy tickets from £25.

+ Workshops - 28 October - Three workshops will be taking place at the museum, inspired by themes of ‘Saluting Our Sisters’ and ‘Before Windrush’. The events include: a writing workshop, a story-telling family activity, and a print-making workshop with African textile artist EvaD.

 

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🎧Discover a new podcast

 

Who doesn’t already love a podcast? They are an easy and convenient source of entertainment whilst you’re busy travelling, working out or even just relaxing. So why not expand your usual pods and take these moments as an opportunity to learn about Black history and culture, directly from Black creators.

Some great places to start are Code Switch and Black History Buff.

 

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🍴Support Black-owned businesses

 

Manchester is a hub for unique, independent businesses and is home to loads of different cultures and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.

In honour of this month, visit some new restaurants, bars and shops - you can support Black-owned businesses and may even find your new favourite spot in the city.

Some delicious and mouth-watering places to start include:

+ Trap Kitchen - with other locations in London and Birmingham, you may have already heard of Trap Kitchen’s tasty and inventive combos. You’ll find everything from Lobster tail, to flavourful chicken and sweet waffles.

+ Soul & Surf - this Nigerian restaurant combines their food with the cooking style of America’s deep south, bringing you anything from chicken wings and jollof, to mac ‘n’ cheese and a succulent lobster tail.

+ Vegan Shack - a vegan take on all your fave takeaways foods. Treat yourself to loaded fries, breakfast bagels, delicious burgers and so much more before washing it down with an oreo milkshake.