How Haymarket is recognising Black History Month

 

What is Black History Month?

Black History Month is not just a month to celebrate the continued achievements and contributions of Black people to the UK and around the world. It’s also a time for continued action to tackle racism, reclaim Black history, and ensure Black history is represented and celebrated all year round. 

Throughout October, a wide range of events are held across the country celebrating African and Caribbean cultures and histories, including everything from food festivals to music workshops, educational seminars and lectures.

The theme for Black History Month 2022  is ‘Time for Change: Action Not Words’.

“Black people are often given the double burden of experiencing racism and discrimination, and then being expected to fix it. Hopefully, by making the theme of this year’s Black History Month ‘Time for Change: Action Not Words’ we can come together to make a change for the better.’’ - Catherine Ross, Editor, Black History Month 

 

Why are we talking about Black History Month at Haymarket?

Whether you think that there should be a Black History Month or not (Morgan Freeman isn’t a fan, stating that he doesn’t want a month, but rather for Black history to be American history), the month does give us the chance to start conversations and to educate ourselves.

One of the best ways to celebrate Black voices and honour the stories of the Black community is through literature. The power of books allow us to better understand the struggles and the triumphs of Black people all over the world.

Origin, one of Haymarket’s DEI Networks, has planned a few things for employees throughout the month. One of these is its Black History Month book club and they’re reading This book is Anti-Racist by Tiffany Jewell. The book is aimed at young activists and organised into twenty sections, each confronting a different theme related to race and prejudice. The book serves as an invaluable tool to help self-educate and foster activism, covering history, theory and practical measures.  

 

Origin has also put together Haymarket’s next book swap in its library, containing a fantastic list of books including fiction and reference, biographies and autobiographies for employees to read, enjoy and discuss together. Included in the list are: 

• Half of a Yellow Sun, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
• Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire, Akala
• The Power of Privilege - How White People Can Challenge Racism, June Sarpong
• Tribes, David Lammy
• Girl, Woman, Other, Bernardine Evaristo
• Black and British: A Forgotten History, David Olusoga
• I know why the Caged Bird Sings, Maya Angelou
• The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, Rebecca Skloot
• Open Water, Caleb Azumah Nelson
• Kindred, Octavia Butler
• Why I’m no Longer Talking to White People about Race, Reni Eddo-Lodge

For more information on Haymarket's diversity & inclusion programmes and initiatives please click here.