October is Black History Month
Black History Month is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contributions of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic people, past and present. The theme this year is Reclaiming Narratives.
Our local history tells a big story about migrations in and migrations out that shape the Conwy we see today. This month is a reminder for our need to reflect and consider our individual and collective efforts to create an anti-racist society and in building a strong and inclusive Conwy community that benefits all.
Ahead of Black History Month we spoke with a range of local educational leaders about the importance of Black History Month and the Reclaiming Narratives theme. Start this month and make a year round commitment to explore and enjoy the untold stories that are part of ourstory.
Dr Marian Gwyn, Heritage Consultant and North Wales Regional Coordinator, Race Council Cymru:
“Embracing Black History Month is more than a time to reflect on our shared histories - it's a time to celebrate the richness and diversity of narratives from Wales' past and present. This year's theme, 'Reclaiming Narratives' shines a spotlight on the stories of well-known figures that have been previously overlooked. By exploring these stories, we uncover hidden gems which broaden our understanding of the vibrant tapestry that makes up our communities. Commemorating Black History Month gives us a chance to learn, connect and share in exciting and meaningful ways”
Why not visit the RE-IMAGINING Congo House/African Institute exhibition, currently available in Colwyn Bay Library, which explores and re-imagines stories of Colwyn Bay’s Congo House/African Institute.
Ms Amy Grimward, Ysgol Aberconwy and winner of the Betty Campbell (MBE) award in 2024:
“It is wonderful to celebrate Black History Month with an exhibition like Pobl Fel Ni that highlights how enriching it is to share and showcase the cultural history of Wales. I was incredibly thankful to win the Betty Campbell (MBE) award earlier this year for promoting the contributions and perspectives of Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities; but moreso, to shine a light onto the Teaching Awards Cymru for creating space for this category.
It is one that not only celebrates the achievements of Betty Campbell - the first Black Headteacher in Wales - but also emphasises the importance of providing an antiracist education whereby all voices and histories are heard and valued. I believe the Welsh Government's plan for an antiracist Wales by 2030 is entirely within our reach; a big step towards achieving this is in providing an education that is wholly representative of the diverse histories of Wales and the wider world, and ensures safety and respect for every person. As educators, we have a duty to demand an equitable future for the next generation, and that requires a commitment from each of us to become active allies”
You can currently see Stitched Stories from the Pobl Fel Ni exhibition in Coed Pella reception.
North Wales Regional Equality Network (NWREN), who are sharing the Pobl Fel Ni exhibition with us, added:
“Many people would suggest racism isn’t a problem in our communitybut this isn’t the lived experience of racially minoritised people.NWREN are committed to working in collaboration with CCBC and other agencies to build and maintain a vibrant and inclusive Conwy, a community that acknowledges and celebrates its ethnic diversity and where people feel valued, respected and safe. As our Prif Weinidog has recently said, “there’s no room for complacency in Wales””
Professor Charlotte Williams OBE, FLSW, recently led a working group on improving the teaching of themes and experiences relating to Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities across all parts of the school curriculum (now part of the Curriculum for Wales):
“The Welsh Government has boldly committed to creating an Anti-Racist Wales by 2030. This relies on the actions of all of us in contributing to this goal. From little things big things can grow. Our small everyday actions and new ideas about how to do things matter. Let’s all be part of making a difference”
For more information about Welsh Government’s commitment to creating an Anti-Racist Wales by 2030, please see: An anti-racist Wales: background | GOV.WALES
We’ve recently been working with Rukhsana Nugent (International Diversity, & Management Training Consultant), to start delivering introductory equality, diversity and inclusion training:
“Being on the journey with Conwy Council in making tangible differences and to share and understand the impact of black heritage and culture is a privilege. Let’s work together in making equality a reality”
For more information about Black History Month, check out:
Equality and diversity - Conwy County Borough Council
Posted on 04/10/2024