Black History Month: 1-31 October 2012

Every October, people across London and the UK come together to celebrate Black History Month.

The annual season highlights and celebrates the achievements of the black community in London and beyond.

It is celebrated annually in the United States and Canada in February and the United Kingdom in October.

Let Boutique London Lets guide you though this big event: 

History:

Black History Month had its beginnings in 1926 in the United States, when historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History announced the second week of February to be "Negro History Week". This week was chosen because it marked the birthday of both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick  Douglass. Woodson created the holiday with the hope that it eventually be eliminated when black history became fundamental to American history.

Black History Month was first celebrated in the United Kingdom in 1987. This establishment of Black History Month is generally attributed to the work of Ghanaian analyst Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, as well as the Greater London Council.

Where and What's on:

In the Southwark council, Black History Month has been recognised for over 20 years with a month long programme of exciting and inspirational events and workshops.

Every year throughout October people, schools, libraries, groups and organisations host events and get involved with the celebration of black history.

Celebration is the theme for Black History Month 2012. Incorporating the games, the Jubilee, and independence day celebrations, the programme aims to look at the influence of these celebrations in relation to black history/heritage and culture.

You can find more about Black History Month events here and have fun!