October is Black History Month in the UK.

Black History Month first took place in the UK in 1987, on the 150th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the Caribbean.

With a historical link to Black History Week (and later month) in America which started in the 1920s, Black History Month in the UK was arranged by Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, who came to the UK from Ghana as a refugee in 1984.

October was chosen partly because it was near the start of the school year, a time when children and young people would be most engaged.

This year’s theme is Reclaiming Narratives – a focus on listening to the stories and voices of Black individuals and communities.

Newham are running a range events exploring Black History Month. Find out more here: www.newhamblackhistory.org