University to celebrate Black History Month

Black History Month is a national celebration that aims to promote and celebrate black contributions to British society

During October, the University is showing its support for Black History Month with a series of events that will celebrate diversity and the achievements of people of colour in Manchester, the UK and around the world.

Black History Month is a national celebration that aims to promote and celebrate black contributions to British society, and to foster an understanding of black history in general.

Professor Helen Laville, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education, said: “As a historian, I know how important it is explore and celebrate the histories of individuals and communities that are too often overlooked or ignored.

“Black History Month creates an opportunity to learn more about these histories, encouraging us all to take a broader, more inclusive approach to our histories and our heritage, and bringing about lasting changes in perspectives and understanding.

“I look forward to taking part in the range of interesting events that have been organised, and I hope our staff, students, alumni and the general public enjoy the celebrations.”

The programme of events below will celebrate black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) culture, history and the University's BAME student, staff and alumni communities: 

Student-only events

• Using Oral History, SuAndi – 24 October (1pm-2pm), GM LT 5
• Manchester and the Pan-African Congress, Professor Helen Laville – 23 October (1pm-2:30pm), GM LT 3

Open events

• BAME student-staff networking – 3 October (5pm-7pm), GM Atrium
• Pop-up Library – Black History Month theme – 9 October (1:30pm-3:30pm), GM Atrium
• I Am Not Your Negro – HPP Film Club – I October (1:30pm-3:30pm), GM LT 4
• Get Out film screening and introduction – 9 October (6pm-9pm), 70 Oxford Street
• BlacKkKlansman film screening and discussion – 10 October (4pm-7pm), GM LT 7
• Bablyon Makes the Rules – 15 October (5:30pm-7:30pm), GM LT 5
• A Brief History of Black People in Britain – 17 October (4pm-6pm), GM Atrium
• The Civil Rights Struggle in America – 16-17 October, The Centre for International Slavery Studies in Liverpool

All staff members, students and alumni are welcome to attend, and many events are also open to the wider community who are encouraged to join in with the celebrations.