BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENTS
By Reform Radio
on Mon Oct 02 2023
This year, October marks Black History Month 2023 and this year’s theme is ‘Saluting Our Sisters’. The theme is a gracious nod to the crucial role that Black women have played in shaping history, inspiring change, and building communities, alongside highlighting the #WEMATTER campaign which amplifies and notices the vitality of their voice. Not only this, but this year’s campaign also aims to challenge the systems that oppress Black women and actively inspire future generations.
Black History Month is a momentous occasion to recognise and celebrate the invaluable contributions of Black people to British society. From looking back to the historical impacts of Black individuals, to celebrating the work and motions of them today, to looking forward and empowering future recognition of such individuals, Black History Month encourages a necessary acknowledgement of the Black community.
In honour of the occasion, Reform will have collated a list of events around the North West to attend in celebration of Black History Month. Check them out below and be sure to show up and support the #WEMATTER movement.
Multiple dates
Manchester Museum, OxfordRoad, Manchester
This year, Manchester Museum will be holding three workshops using the themes of ‘Saluting Our Sisters’ and ‘Before Windrush’. These include a writing workshop for adults, a family story-telling session, and a print workshop. Use the museum’s extensive Afro-Caribbean collections to inspire you in these creative workshops.
Brighter Sound x Vic Meets Workshops
Multiple dates
33 Blossom Street Unit 2, Manchester
Brighter Sound teams up with Vic Meets for a series of workshops and panels this autumn. From songwriting and freestyling to DJing and broadcasting, with industry advice at every turn. All will be hosted by BBC Radio 1 presenter and R&B/Soul artist Victoria Jane, with guests fronting each workshop, including DJ Chaise, Akemi Fox, G33 and Layfullstop. There will be plenty of time to ask burning questions and get practical experience in the workshop areas. All workshops are free but please book in advance.
5th October, 6.30PM
Feel Good Club, Manchester
Enjoy an incredible line-up of our specially curated storytellers telling you their story, unfiltered and in their own words. In addition to the line up, true to our open mic roots there will be a couple of spaces open for budding storytellers, so feel free to come with your own five minute true story in mind. Our events are as much about the joy of hearing the voices of others, of finding there’s a story in each person, and coming to connect and learn.
The event is also raising money for CAHN and Kids of Colour.
7th October, 12PM – 4PM
The Portico Library, Manchester
The Black Writers Guild has hired the Portico Library in Manchester to provide a positive space for you to hear from published authors, and to connect with other emerging and established black writers in the north and midlands. Guest speakers include the incredible Diana Anyakwo, Yvonne Battle-Felton, Danielle Jawando, Okechukwu Nzelu and Kimberly Whittam.
8th October, 8PM
The Frog and Bucket, Manchester
This is a comedy night that is not only packed to the brim with jokes but also celebrates the vast array of comedic talent throughout Black History Month. We pride ourselves on championing comedians who appeal to comedy lovers of all backgrounds – so grab your tickets and head down for a night of good vibes!
14th October, 1PM – 4PM
The Space, Stockport
As part of the Ubuntu Festival of Events for Black History Month, The Zebra Partnership has collaborated with Stockport Race Equality Partnership to deliver a weekend of events in Stockport. On Saturday 14th October, Carol Ann Whitehead will be bringing back Miss Diagnosis and hosting a special BHM ‘Miss Diagnosis Lunch and Learn’ – a panel discussion about Black Women’s health and incorrect diagnosis from maternal care to breast cancer. After the discussion there will be a chance to network with Afrobeats and enjoy some African Caribbean food. All are welcome.
20th October, 7PM
The Brewers, Manchester
A-POC-ALYPSE CABARET is a horror inspired event, showcasing queer artists of colour on a stage created for us, by us. This is a safe space to enjoy queer POC artists whose style of performance and creative vision is celebrated. Get ready to experience a powerhouse of POC talent, from some of Manchester’s finest and across the UK. This is going to be a cultural reset, bringing queer POC monsters to the heart of Manchester’s Gay Village! This month’s line-up features Eva Serration, Romeo De La Cruz, Jada Love, Lilly Snatchdragon & The Bollywitch.
MAMAWE Afro-Pean Dance Festival
21st October, 1.45PM – 5PM
Croft House Centre, Sheffield
MAMAWE brings you an experience you do not want to miss, a workshop focused on celebrating BHM through movement. Join dance teachers and choreographers, Angelina Abel and Adriano Oliveira who will lead this brief introductory session, drawing inspiration from the Angolan heritage, providing you with an opportunity to relax, express yourself, and emphasise the significance of purposeful movement.