We are delighted to share a diverse line-up of events and talks for Black History Month 2024. This year’s theme (in the UK) is ‘Reclaiming narratives'. This theme underscores a commitment to correcting historical inaccuracies and showcasing the untold success stories and the full complexity of Black heritage.
If you have an event you would like included in this year's programme please email diversity@bath.ac.uk with the details. The list of activities below will be regularly updated with the latest activities and events throughout October.
Also this month consider joining the Mosaic network for staff or the SU's Bath African and Caribbean Society for students.
Week 1
Launch event
2 October, 13:00-14:00
CB 4.10
This in-person seminar will introduce Black History Month at the University and feature guest speaker Dr Audrey Allwood - Leading British Anthropologist, expert on Caribbean Migration, Windrush, and Mental Health.
The event will also feature:
- Dr Teslim Bukoye, Race Equality Lead
- Professor Jane White, Vice-President: Community & Inclusion
- Pam Chesters CBE, Chair of Council
Week 3
City walking tour: Walk Bath’s ‘Uncomfortable’ Past
20 October, 15:00-17:00
Outside 44AD artspace (in the square next to Bath Abbey), Kingston Parade, Bath
This walk covers Bath’s complex colonial connections. It offers insight into how transatlantic slavery contributed to the splendours of 18th century Bath by bringing to the light how the trafficking and subsequent exploitation of enslaved Africans funded many of Bath’s grandiose neo-Palladian building projects. The walk engages with the city’s heritage from the viewpoint of both those who benefited from slavery and those who revolted or campaigned against it.
The walk draws on a walk designed by a group of students at the University of Bath in 2020. A chapter discussing the design of the walk is now available in open access in the recently published book Breaking the Dead Silence: Engaging with the Legacies of Empire and Slave-Ownership in Bath and Bristol’s Memoryscapes. Look for chapter 12 'Mapping Bath’s Uncomfortable Past’.
Week 4
Breaking the Dead Silence: Meet the Authors
22 October, 13:15-14:15
Library Foyer (breakout area)
This talk brings together authors Renée Jacobs and Roger Griffith. Renée is a TEDx speaker, instigator and a change-maker. She is also a keen advocate of people from minoritised backgrounds. Roger is passionate about sharing cultural stories, promoting racial equality and social inclusion. He is a keen advocate for life-long learning which elevated his rise from unemployment to senior manager at Bristol City Council.
Both authors will discuss their contributions to the book 'Breaking the Dead Silence: Engaging with the Legacies of Empire and Slave-Ownership in Bath and Bristol’s Memoryscapes' (chapters 6 and 7) in conversation with Dr Christina Horvath, co-author and editor of the book. The book, in open access, discusses the experience of Bath and Bristol’s complex colonial connections and reflects on how this difficult heritage should be addressed in contemporary society.
'Being an Anti-Racist Ally' training for students
23 October, 12:30-14:00
CB 3.9 - also hybrid online
Come to this lunchtime session and learn practical actions you can take as an anti-racist. Find out more about the problem of racism, and how we can all be part of the solution.
Student Support workshops for Black students
It’s an opportunity to be inspired, empowered, and challenged to take control of your wellbeing and self-development. Gain practical wellbeing techniques, as well as make connections with like-minded people.
The programme of workshops will be led by TEDx motivational speaker and wellbeing coach, Toluwa Oyeleye. The workshops have been designed with the support of wellbeing experts and coaches from the Black community and tailored for University of Bath students who identify as being Black (African, Caribbean, dual or other black heritage).
Book and find out more at the Black Student Network webpage.
Racism, Death, Restoration: The First Black Footballer, Arthur Wharton
25 October, 12:15-13:15
CB 4.1
Arthur Wharton’s story displays his significant impact on British sports and highlights broader societal inequalities in various professional fields, both historically and today. Born in Ghana in 1865, Wharton was the first Black professional footballer and a 100-yard world record holder. He also excelled in cricket, rugby, and cycling. Despite his accomplishments and education in England, he faced severe racism, leading to a tragic end and his legacy being forgotten. The talk emphasises the importance of addressing societal inequalities and their effects on individuals.
Talk by George Gumisiriza. George is a PhD candidate in Social and Policy Sciences, funded by ESRC and the University of Bath. His thesis explores death and body repatriation among African diaspora in the UK.
The five day challenge
The 5 day challenge has 5 different activities for students and staff to do. Each activity takes just 5 minutes, and will help you reflect and, more importantly, take action to drive equality. Read the challenges here and get started.
Building trust in reporting racial harassment
An insightful, warm, and uplifting interview discussing ways in which the University is working to build trust with students and staff to create a supportive and inclusive environment at Bath.
Week 5
Panel event on challenges and successes
30 October, 14:00 - 15:30
CB 4.10
Panellists:
Dr Natalie Cozier (bio to follow)
Tevin Tobun is a distinguished business leader, tech entrepreneur, and philanthropist with a prolific 23-year career. Specialising in technology and logistics, he has founded numerous successful businesses within the UK and globally.
Yemi Edun is the CEO of Daniel Ford, one of London’s leading property acquisition consultancies. Daniel Ford has acquired over £1B worth of property for its clients to date.
Allyship training for staff
30 October, 13:00-13:30
Online
In our lightning 30 minute training session, pick up simple tips to start becoming an anti-racist ally.
Closing session
31 October, 13:00-14:00
CB 3.16
This in-person event will be hosted by Dr Teslim Bukoye, Race Equality Lead. This session will be used to launch our involvement in the Race Equality Charter, and we will take the time to acknowledge all events which has taken place over the month, and reflect on their impact on our community. Professor Phil Taylor, Vice-Chancellor and President, will be in attendance.
#NeverOK
This Black History Month we are bolstering our support for the #NeverOK campaign, a citywide campaign which makes clear that bullying, harassment, and sexual misconduct are #NeverOK. Through training students in bystander intervention, and developing allyship and community within the University, the campaign is creating a more inclusive and race-conscious environment. You can find out how to get involved in the campaign here.
Support and Report
The University can help, you can tell us if you have experienced any form of discrimination, including microaggressions.
Use Support and Report, we listen and take you seriously. We can support, offer guidance, and make change #NeverOK.
Library reading list for Black History Month
The has Library put together a selection of resources to celebrate Black History Month. This list will be expanded and updated as we acquire more stock. If you have any suggestions of books to add to the list, please email the Library on library@bath.ac.uk.
The SU
To find out what activities are being put on by the Students' Union visit their dedicated Black History Month webpage.