We are delighted to share a diverse line-up of events and talks for Black History Month 2023. This year’s theme (in the UK) is ‘saluting our sisters’ and the #wematter movement. The theme of ‘Saluting our Sisters’ highlights the crucial role that black women have played in shaping history, inspiring change, and building communities.
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 People of Colour Network for staff or the SU's Bath African and Caribbean Society for students.
Speakers
Healthy Ageing, Intergenerational Activities and the Impact of Research
Join us on 18 October where we'll explore the magic of healthy ageing, intergenerational activities and the impact of research, with Dr Melrose Stewart (OBE). Find out more and register for your free ticket on Eventbrite
Building Bridges: Bones, Academia, Legacy and Curiosity
Join us on 25 October for a presentation and Q&A with Professor Richard Oreffo discussing his academic career and overcoming obstacles along the way. Find out more and register for your free ticket on Eventbrite.
Workshops - open to all
IT'S ABOUT RACE: Challenging Racial Bias and Racism in Practice
We are working with the Diversity Trust to put on a workshop this Black History Month which aims to give people a more in-depth understanding of various forms of racism, as well as racial bias and the issues affecting the black community in the context of the current climate and black history.
The course has a focus on the topics of anti-racism and white privilege and looks to assist organisations in making practical and structural changes that contributes to a positive impact in the fight against racism and racial inequality.
You can choose from one of the below sessions, and register by clicking the link:
Workshops - Student Support
Student Support are running a number of 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 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). The programme will be led by TEDx motivational speaker and wellbeing coach, Toluwa Oyeleye
What do previous attendees say?
"I have been able to network with other Black students and have made friends in the process. As the Black community at Bath is quite small, having a safe space and environment to hear about people’s lives and struggles and being able to identify with them increases my sense of belonging"
Monday, 23rd October: This empowering workshop is tailored to boost self-esteem and confidence, embracing and celebrating the essence of Black identity.
This immersive workshop has been intentionally designed to provide a space where we can discuss openly, without judgement and without hesitation. We are coming together to learn, share and most importantly reflect on the key themes of self love, self-worth and self-confidence. This isn't just a workshop – it's a transformative experience that will leave you inspired, invigorated, and ready to embrace your boundless potential. Please follow this link to book your place.
Monday, 20th Nov, 6.30-8pm: What are you feeding? Creating healthy habits- cultivating a positive mindset and Creating transformative habits
Join us for an engaging in person workshop designed to be a sanctuary of open discussion, free from judgment and hesitation. Together, we'll explore the art of cultivating thriving habits, nurturing a radiant positive mindset, and crafting transformative routines. This seminar isn't just about information – it's a dynamic journey that empowers you to cultivate a life brimming with vitality and purpose. Don't miss out on this opportunity to nourish your mind, body, and soul. Please follow this link to book your place.
Monday, 4th Dec, 6.30-8pm: Building the Success toolkit: Your Wellbeing Blueprint in times of Stress
Join us for an engaging in person seminar that's laser-focused on crafting your success toolkit for navigating even the most stressful seasons. Prepare to embark on a journey of building unwavering resilience, breaking free from the clutches of anxiety and comparison, and unleashing your boundless innovation to conquer this academic year.
This dynamic session is carefully curated to be a haven of open dialogue, devoid of judgment and hesitation. Together, we'll embark on a shared exploration of strategies, insights, and reflections that will empower you to thrive. The spotlight is on you as we collectively learn, grow, and map out a path to triumph in the upcoming year. Please follow this link to book your place
Workshop - allyship
Would you like to be a better ally against racism? Want to learn more about Black British History? Practical Actions for Anti-Racism is a FREE 2 hour workshop which will challenge your thinking on race and allyship with five practical steps you can take this Black History Month and beyond. Take the opportunity to meet new people and increase your knowledge through the #NeverOK campaign. Register now.
Success stories
To celebrate with this year’s theme of Saluting our Sisters, we’re looking for volunteers who would like to share their story with us. Please do get in touch to put yourself forward or to nominate a student or staff member via email to diversity@bath.ac.uk and we will be in touch to arrange a short interview.
#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: 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.
External events
Find out what is going on this Black History Month in Bath and Bristol.
Reclaiming the Afro
Citizen’s Advice Bath and North East Somerset have published an article on Reclaiming the Afro, which you can read here.
Thanks to feedback received from students, The SU now hosts hairdressers who specialise in Afro-Caribbean hair. Find out more about The Salon and how to book here.