The national event, supported by Cambridge City Council, is an annual celebration of the part people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds play in British life.
Among the highlights of this year’s celebrations is an exhibition at the Museum of Cambridge, exploring the contribution of black and Commonwealth soldiers to British armed forces, dating back as far as the 16th Century.
Renowned genealogist, Selena Carty, will be giving two talks on the largely hidden stories of black and Commonwealth soldiers on 7 October at the museum and at Anglia Ruskin University. There will also be a ‘Memory Café’ event at the museum, when people will be able to share wartime memories and stories, which will then be added to an archive.
Musical events to look out for include an appearance at The Junction by MOBO Award-winning hip hop artist Akala and an evening of traditional African music and dance on 29 October at Arbury Community Centre.
Other highlights for Black History Month in Cambridge include:
- ‘Tales from the Rainforest’ – live storytelling for all ages at The Unitarian Hall, Emmanuel Road (22 October);
- Reading and discussion with science fiction and fantasy writer Nalo Hopkinson at Anglia Ruskin University (20 October);
- Poetry evening with performance poets Vanessa Kisuule and Dean Atta at The Unitarian Hall, Emmanuel Road (28 October);
- Cambridge University annual race equality lecture with a panel of speakers on the subject of ‘Race, Representation and Visibility’ – St John’s College (24 October).
Cllr Richard Johnson, Executive Councillor for Communities, said: “There’s a fantastic array of events taking place in Cambridge during October for Black History Month, which I’d encourage everyone to join in with.”
“These shows, talks and performances are another reminder of what a vibrant and diverse city Cambridge is, and how much people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds contribute to our city.”
For complete listings including booking details, visit www.cambridge.gov.uk/black-history-month