As Black History Month draws to an end, let this journey of honouring remind us that amplifying Black Voices doesn’t end here.
As Black History Month draws to an end, let this journey of honouring remind us that amplifying Black Voices doesn’t end here. Each conversation shared and each story told represents an integral step in reclaiming history, identity, and future. This month has taught us not to only support these voices during Black History month, but to provide support and raise awareness all year long.
Opening this month with the incredible Black History Month guest panel, an event held by our Black & Global Majority Community Officer, Piya, inspirational stories were narrated by Academics and Black students at Royal Holloway. A huge thank you to Barbara Herring, Senior Lecturer in Health Studies, Rita D'Alton-Harrison, Professor in Law and Criminology, and Naomi Tchesse, Students of Faith Community Officer - you were all truly inspiring.
A book club featuring Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo, a powerful novel which weaves together the lives of twelve characters, primarily Black British women, exploring their experiences across generations. Through richly varied voices and perspectives, Evaristo challenges conventional narratives and highlights the beauty and complexity of lives that often go unseen or unheard. Discussing Girl, Woman, Other allowed participants to connect with themes of identity, resilience, and self-definition, making it a fitting choice for Black History Month and the theme of reclaiming narratives. In exploring these stories, the book club offered a space for reflection, dialogue, and a celebration of voices that continue to shape and reclaim their own histories.
One of the standout events was a Black creativity showcase, featuring ACS (African Caribbean society) and our Black & Global Majority Community Officer, where talented students and academics showcased a wide range of creative expressions—from spoken word and music to dance and visual art. Each performance was an inspiring testament to Black creativity, providing a platform for our students to share their voices and stories with the broader community.
Throughout the month, the events provided a space for learning, celebration, and connection. Reclaiming Narratives is not just a theme but a commitment to centering Black perspectives on campus and beyond.