It's Black History Month
Every October, the UK celebrates Black History Month. This is a chance to celebrate the histories and achievements of black communities. This year’s theme, ‘Honouring Our Communities’, reminds us that history isn’t only made by the famous names we read about. It is made every day, in our families, our workplaces and our communities, by people whose contributions may not always make the headlines, but whose impact is felt for generations.
As a proud alumna and Chancellor of the University of Birmingham, this month has particular meaning for me. My own Birmingham story spans three generations of my family, and I am enormously proud to be part of a university community where people from every background should feel that they belong, that they can thrive — and that they can lead.
Black History Month belongs to all of us. So, I hope you’ll use this month to listen to new voices, discover stories you didn’t know, celebrate those who came before us — and think about the history that you might make.
Because history isn’t just something we inherit. It’s something we create.
Sandie Okoro OBE
Chancellor, University of Birmingham
Events to look out for!
Telling the Truth and Shaming the Devil: The Church's Complicity with the Transatlantic Slave Trade
Wednesday 7 October, 18:30-20:00
Room G07, University House
Take part in a thought provoking discussion with Professor Anthony Reddie.
First Black Brummies documentary screening
Tuesday 13 October, 12:30-13:30
Room WG12, Aston Webb Building
Enjoy a screening of the inspiring documentary about the First Black Brummies and their incredible stories.
Starting Afresh: UK experience discussion with Dr. Chinyere Sam-Okerenta
Thursday 15 October, 12:00-14:00
Room LG14, Murray Learning Centre
Hear from Dr Chinyere Sam-Okerenta about her inspiring personal and professional journey.
'40 Years of Handsworth Songs': film screening and Q&A panel
Thursday 22 October, 18:30-20:30
Mockingbird Cinema, The Custard Factory
Enjoy a screening and panel discussion to celebrate the 40th anniversary of this multi-award winning documentary feature film.
Black Heritage Walking Tour
Wednesday 28 October, 13:00-15:00
On campus
Join the Black Heritage Walks Network for a guided walking tour exploring Black histories connected to our campus.
Grab your free book!
We're giving away a selection of books exploring black history, culture, identity and community including Small Island, Things Fall Apart, Rainbow Milk and more. To enter, all you need to do is answer one simple question…
Enter the book giveaway!
Hear from Alumni
Explore our inspiring blog archive from previous years, featuring stories and insights that celebrate the lives and contributions of key Black figures.
Blog: A Black mathematician's journey
Blog: Our Chancellor, a Black History Month icon
We want to hear from you
Have a story to tell? We want to know all about your journey to Birmingham! Tell us your story, in your own words. Contact studentcommunications@contacts.bham.ac.uk to get started.
Browse Your Stories to see the amazing journey students at UoB have made to get here!