We are pleased to introduce this year’s programme crammed full of inspirational, fun and thought provoking events to celebrate Black History throughout October (writes Abraham Eshetu, left). We hope you will enjoy this showcase of creative and artistic talent and join us in celebrating this exciting annual event.
Norfolk Black History Month (BHM) brings a diverse set of people together to celebrate the contribution of Black people past and present. It provides a platform for promoting community cohesion through building trust and confidence among our diverse communities. It also gives everyone the opportunity and confidence to look into and appreciate their own and others history and heritage. We recognise that we are all champions and that together we represent all sections of the community. In recognition of this, and in celebration of the aims of the Olympics and the achievements of Black people, we have chosen ‘Black Champions’ as the theme for this year’s celebration.
This October Norfolk Black History Month will bring you over 100 events across Norfolk. It promises to be one of the most engaging, liveliest and welcoming events in Norfolk’s cultural calendar – serving both as an educational project and an entertaining experience for those who know little of, or are just curious about, African and Caribbean Heritage and the British connection. Norfolk Black History Month helps promote diversity, challenge prejudice and encourage engagement with Norfolk’s diverse communities. In addition to organising the events, and building new partnerships and connections, one of the achievements of the BHM Steering Group is the launch of Norfolk Black Heritage and Culture (NBHC). NBHC is a not for profit organisation responsible for the Black History Month Celebration. Its responsibility will also include building community connections and a sustainable programme of activities to promote black heritage and culture through the arts and educational programmes throughout the year.
Norfolk Black History Month is supported by communities and voluntary groups, statutory agencies such as local authorities, museums, libraries and criminal justice agencies. We would like to extend a special thank you to the support given by County Council, Norfolk Constabulary, Norwich City Council, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, Norfolk Library and Information Service, The Bridge Plus, Creative Arts East, Zimbabwean Community Association Norwich (ZIMCAN), NEAD (Norfolk Education Action for Development), the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, University of East Anglia, the Castle Mall and NHS Norfolk. I would also like to extend my thanks to all members of the Norfolk BHM Steering Group.
This year the Norfolk Community Cohesion Network, in partnership with Norfolk County Council, Norfolk Constabulary Black Police Association and Norfolk Celebrating Talent, has supported a number of community events linked to Norfolk Black History Month 2012 that celebrate ‘Black Champions’. Community groups were awarded £200 towards an event to celebrate Black excellence in Norfolk.
I hope this programme inspires you to go out and enjoy what Norfolk Black History Month 2012 has to offer, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been involved in what promises to be another fantastic October.
From Abraham Eshetu, Chair, Norfolk Black History Month Steering Group
For a timetable of the events planned and more, click here.
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