UK Youth embraces Black History Month and the chance to ‘recognise and correct narratives of Black history and culture’

Today marks the start of Black History Month in the UK, widely regarded as one of the most prominent cultural celebrations of the year. 

It began as a way of remembering important people and events in the history of communities descended from people from Africa, initially lasting a week, before becoming a month-long observation since 1970. 

This year’s theme is Reclaiming Narratives.  

A Black History Month spokesperson said: “This year’s Black History Month theme, Reclaiming Narratives, marks a significant shift towards recognising and correcting the narratives of Black history and culture.  

“By emphasising this theme, we shine a brighter light on stories, allegories, and histories that underscore our commitment to correcting historical inaccuracies and showcasing the untold success stories and the full complexity of Black heritage. 

“It is a call to action for Black communities across the UK to step into the role of storytellers, historians, and custodians of our heritage.“ 

UK Youth staff members have been sharing why Black History Month remains so important as both a celebration and a chance of education and recognition. 

Oby Bamidele, UK Youth interim chief operating officer, said: “Black History Month is a critical time for reflection, celebration, and recognition of the incredible journeys Black people have undertaken worldwide.  

“This year’s theme, Reclaiming Narratives, speaks to the importance of telling our own stories, in our own words, from our own perspectives. 

“Too often, our histories have been distorted or misrepresented. This month gives us the opportunity to take back ownership of our narratives. It’s a reminder that Black history is not just a part of world history – it is world history. And I hope this reflection extends well beyond October.” 

For project officer Christine Holdbrook, Black History Month has a personal connection.  

Christine said: “Black History Month is important because it recognises the profound contributions and achievements of Black people throughout history, while also raising awareness of the systemic struggles and injustices they have faced.  

“It creates a space for learning, celebration, and reflection, helping to foster a more inclusive and equitable society by encouraging people to confront the past and work toward a more just future. 

“To me, Black History Month represents a time for reflection, celebration, and education. It is an opportunity to learn about the stories, leaders, and movements that have shaped the fight for justice and equality. Personally, it serves as a reminder of the importance of amplifying marginalised voices and ensuring that the contributions of Black communities are celebrated not just for one month, but year-round.  

“I am particularly proud that we get to celebrate Black History Month in the UK, as my uncle, Addai-Sebo, is the founder of Black History Month here. This personal connection makes the month even more meaningful, as it highlights the importance of honouring Black heritage, inspiring future generations, and continuing the pursuit of racial justice and equity.” 

Saira Falkus-Holder, corporate partnerships manager, said: “For me, Black History Month is a time to celebrate, recognise, and represent!  

“Black history is world history, and world history is everyone’s history. Yet until Black history has its place in the school curriculum and true authentic black voices are regularly shown and heard on our screens, we need Black History Month to shine a light on untold or underrepresented stories, from the past and present. 

 “Can all Black history be taught in a month? Of course not! But by using October to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black people, as well as to educate all on Black history, we get to know the past, to understand our present and create a better, more inclusive future.” 

Honouring our Heroes: ‘Dedication and resilience in the face of adversity’

Honouring our Heroes: ‘I can only imagine the loneliness and culture shock she must have felt’

Embracing Our Stories: ‘Being Black means celebrating my rich heritage’

Embracing Our Stories: ‘I learned to reclaim my power’

Empower and Educate: ‘Knowledge is a powerful tool’

UK Youth is a leading charity with a vision that all young people are equipped to thrive and empowered to contribute at every stage of their lives. With an open network of more than 9,000 youth organisations and nation partners; UK Youth reaches more than four million young people across the UK and is focused on unlocking youth work as the catalyst of change that is needed now more than ever. To find out more, visit ukyouth.org 

UK Youth is involved in a range of programmes designed to help young people thrive, such as outdoor learning, physical literacy, social action and employability, including Hatch, a youth employability programme run in partnership with KFC. For more on UK Youth’s programmes, see ukyouth.org/what-we-do/programmes