Camden Black History Season 2021 – Honouring our nation of Black unsung heroes
Camden Council is celebrating Black History Season with a fantastic programme of events between October and mid-December.
This year’s events programme - under the theme of “Honouring our nation of Black unsung heroes”- is an opportunity for the Black African and Caribbean diaspora to show pride in who they are, their rich culture and history and the contributions they’ve made to Camden’s vibrant diversity.
“Last year’s Black History Season was held amid a turbulent and traumatic period. It followed the murder of George Floyd in the United States and the global outpouring in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. While the demand for change made by many citizens across the world in response to this tragic event put conversations about racial injustice and inequality at the top of the news and political agenda, the disproportionate effects of the COVID-19 pandemic were playing out in front of our eyes.
“It does feel we in Camden have made considerable progress in the last 12 months, thanks in part to the work of our Disproportionality Working Group – set up to tackle the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on Black, Asian and other ethnic communities in Camden – and thanks to the Camden Black Workers Group and local community organisations.
“2021 has seen some important and positive milestones for our borough. Due to the slave-trading connections of their namesakes, the former Cecil Rhodes House and Beckford Primary school were renamed Park View House and West Hampstead Primary School. This is part of a wider programme of work that I am honoured to be chairing to ensure the buildings and places in Camden represent and are sensitive to the diversity of our communities.
“Black History Season is a great moment to celebrate this progress, and more widely the rich contribution and achievements of people from Black African and Caribbean backgrounds, while at the same time reminding ourselves that there is still a long way to go to achieve equality in Camden, in the UK and across the world.”
Judy Frederick from the Camden Black Workers Group explains the importance of this year’s theme:
“Whether they played a part in the fight for equal rights or made a difference in the local communities, during the next two months we will be honouring our nation of Black unsung heroes from the past and present, who have contributed to change and have inspired the Black community throughout generations.”
Camden’s Black History Season 2021
We are celebrating with exciting programme featuring a range of events and activities including arts, music and culture, talks and webinars, cook-a-longs, story-telling for children and adults alike, book clubs and history walking tours. There’s truly something for everyone to enjoy – here are some of the highlights.
Camden Black Creatives: Future Fest
2 and 3 October, 12-6pm at South Crescent
This two-day event, held in the heart of Bloomsbury WC1, is a celebration of Black culture, promoting inclusivity, diversity and visibility. The outdoor event will include a fashion show, live performers, music, dance and an indoor exhibition.
Proud to Be ‘PROUD TO BE’ Camden Black History Season
8 October, 6.30-8pm at Camden House, Lab Tech (Chalk Farm Road, NW1 8AB)
Launching Camden Black History season 2021 we are pleased to invite you to an event entitled ‘PROUD TO BE’ where we celebrate the success of Camden’s creatives and performers.
Hosted by Eddie Nestor MBE expect an eclectic mix of performances, talks and panel discussion on the topic and a preview to the varied programme on offer for Camden’s Black History season.
Black Entrepreneurs event
13 October, 6-8pm online
If you’re interested in starting your own business, don’t miss this online panel discussion hosted by Black Pound Day founder Swiss from So Solid Crew.
Aimed at equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills and tools to start their own businesses, special guests will deliver constructive and practical advice.
Check out the event to see the special guests and to register.
Colin Grant – “Negro with a Hat: The Rise and Fall of Marcus Garvey”
21 October – 5pm, Swiss Cottage Library
This event explores the life and philosophy of Marcus Garvey, the influential Jamaican political activist, publisher, journalist, entrepreneur and orator. Colin Grant, celebrated author of this seminal book, leads the discussion.
Camden Back Workers Group event
22 October – 6.30pm, London Irish Centre
Camden Black Workers Group are honouring Black unsung Heroes from the past and present. This exciting event will highlight those who have contributed to changes and have inspired the Black community throughout generations. A range of special guest speakers will share their inspiring stories about the work that they undertake in the community. The event will also include a number of exciting performances throughout the evening.
To find out more about the events, go to lovecamden.org/blackhistoryseason