READING Borough Council has laid out a programme of events marking Black History Month, which takes place every October.
Reading will see a range of events across town throughout the month celebrating the achievements and contribution of Black communities and highlighting the importance of preservation and education around the history of Black people.
It also showcases and embraces the rich culture of Black communities and their ongoing influence on both the town and the country as a whole.
Though the initiative dates back to the 1920s, when it was announced by Carter G. Woodson, Black History Month in its current guise was first proposed in 1969.
It became a regular observance in the USA in 1976, since which it has been adopted in numerous countries, including here in the UK.
The UK first observed Black History Month in 1987, the 150th anniversary year of Caribbean emancipation and the centenary of the birth of pioneering Jamaican political activist Marcus Garvey.
Reading Borough Council has laid out a number of events celebrating Black History Month throughout October.
Every Tuesday in October will see beginner workshops with the Reading All Steel Pan Orchestra at the CultureMix Arts Centre, Queens Walk, from 5.30pm.
CultureMix Arts is also holding Soca Dance Classes on Saturday October 5, 12, and 19, and a RASPO showcase on Saturday, October 19.
Our Little Hour, a play exploring the life of the pioneering Walter Tull is also showing at South Street Arts Centre on Tuesday, October 29
Cllr Adele Barnett-Ward, Reading Borough Council’s Lead Councillor for Leisure and Culture said: “We take immense pride in the diversity that defines our town. Reading’s Black communities are an integral part of Reading, playing a key role in shaping our identity, enriching both our cultural and economic life, and continuing to excel in business, academia, and the arts.
“Reading’s Black History Month is always a highlight of our town’s cultural calendar. I encourage everyone to dive into this year’s exciting programme and experience the rich music, theatre, and educational events happening across the Borough.
“The month also acts as a reminder that even in 2024 Black people still experience inequality and that we all have a responsibility to live our values of fairness and inclusion every day of the year.”
Full details of the events taking place in Reading around October celebrating Black History Month are available via: reading.gov.uk/black-history-month24
