Black History Month Events 2022

With the UK’s 35th anniversary of Black History Month drawing to a close, it’s only right that we observe the kaleidoscope of creations honouring the African diaspora. Celebrate the history, achievements, and cultural milestones of the UK’s black community with this selection of incredible events!

Blues for an Alabama Sky | Fall into New York, 1930, the Harlem Renaissance. During this blossoming period of rich cultural artistry, follow Angel and her friends as they battle to fulfil their ambitions against the forces of adversity and romance. A play by Pearl Cleage, directed by Lynette Linton, starring Samira Wiley.

Black British Dynasties in Music: A Family Affair | You have got to catch this Barbican Music Library exhibition! Renowned talents Nathaniel Bailey and Dennis Morris provide commissioned photography for this visually impactful display. Accompanied by recorded interviews with the subjects in question conducted by Capital Xtra DJ, Robert Bruce. 

#Bringing Us Back – Creative Open Mic and Networking Event | A BHM celebration! With good music, stellar vibes, and plenty of connections, this is your perfect chance to see rising stars and special guests up onstage. Ends on the 27th October – don’t miss out!

The Poets Corner | Going since 2015 and still raising steam, poet lovers from all over the UK flock to this event! An intimate, thought-provoking space to experience the art of spoken word performance and poetry. You will be welcomed, audience or onstage!

Black Cultural Archives | Why not check out this series of scintillating exhibitions? Transforming Legacies, a showcase of artistic commentaries centring present and future life, or A Lightbulb Idea, a workshop and performance on Lewis Latimer. More through the link!

Black History Walks | Stretch your legs and flex those brains with this selection of walking tours, educational talks, and films! An enthusiastic team will help you uncover thousands of years of black history in London – with twelve walks to choose from, and the option of bus and river tours, you’re sure to be intrigued.

COBO: Comedy Shutdown Black History Month Special | Catch Richard Blackwood, Clayton Jones, Kyrah Gray, and Marlon Davis for a night of comedy in Leeds! A quality show with star performers, you can enjoy jokes, laughs, and good vibes.

Black History Month: Race and Participation in Sport and Exercise | Self-explanatory! Hop to The University of Huddersfield for a panel discussion on race and ethnicity in sport. Join athletic professionals Maggie Birkenshaw, Leah Asante, and Jermaine Akins as they explore black representation in sporting history!

By Isabella Hassan