Celebrating Black History Month

Every year in October, the UK celebrates Black History Month. This is a time to recognise and celebrate the cultures and histories of our Black communities.

This year’s theme, ‘Reclaiming Narratives’, marks a powerful shift in how we view and celebrate Black history and culture. It's about challenging the narratives that have historically marginalised Black achievements and instead highlighting stories of resilience, success, and empowerment.

Highlights include:

• Poetry and spoken word at The Mic Exchange: Friday 4 October, 19:00-22:30. Free tickets available for an evening of poetry and spoken word with Birmingham’s creatives.
• Black Heritage campus tour: Thursday 17 October, 13:00-14:00. Discover significant landmarks and sites on campus, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Black community.
• Remembering the Windrush Generation: Wednesday 23- Thursday 24 October, 12:00-20:00. Explore the homes of the Windrush Generation.
• Benjamin Zephaniah celebration on campus: Wednesday 30 October, 13:00-15:00. Experience a range of talks, poetry, and spoken word in the memory of Benjamin.

Explore the full events schedule.

Paid internship opportunities for Summer 2025

If you’re a Black student, don’t miss out on the chance to shine through in a highly competitive market with the 10,000 Black Interns Programme.

Want to learn more? Book onto one of the information sessions on Wednesday 2 October:

• On campus, 11:00-12:00, University House (Room 110)
• Online, 13:30-14:30, Zoom

If you can’t make these sessions, email P2C@contact.bham.ac.uk.

Have a story to share?

We want you to celebrate with us. Whether it’s a blog or a short video, we want to showcase your cultural background. Pitch your idea to studentcommunications@contacts.bham.ac.uk for the chance to be featured on our channels and win a £15 Amazon voucher.

Competition time

For Black History Month, the Student Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team is giving away 10 copies of David Harewood’s book Maybe I Don’t Belong Here: A Memoir of Race, Identity, Breakdown and Recovery. Enter here for the chance to win.