Black History Month has arrived!

Whilst processing my September birthday blues, the weather beginning it’s drastic decline and the clocks about to go back, meaning it is going to be pitch black by 4pm, this month would be my least favourite if it wasn’t for Black History Month and for that reason I continue to smile!

The fact that there is a whole month dedicated to celebrating Black History and the pioneers, civil rights activists, leaders, figureheads, philanthropists, entrepreneurs and revolutionists that have paved the way and have positively impacted the progression of the black race can only be a good thing.

This year we sadly lost some extraordinary people; Nelson Mandela- South African, anti-aparthied Revolutionist, Maya Angelou- Poet, Playwright, Actress and Professor, Wayne Pharr- Civil Rights activist and Leader of the Black Panthers and Alice Coachman-Davis- the first black female athlete to win an Olympic gold medal. Events in the calendar like BHM allow us  to all, collectively pay homage and celebrate their lives, and the legacies they leave behind, may they rest in perfect peace.

Black history month should not be regarded as exclusive but instead inclusive and a way for everyone of all races to learn more about the African-Caribbean history and culture.

This month is not just about historical events and pioneers, but is also an opportunity to sample the creative works of relevant and current talent. I encourage everyone to get involved in some of the amazing events that are taking place over the capital in the next month, from exhibitions, arts and crafts events, and theatre productions such as the critically acclaimed Scottsboro Boys musical which opens at The Garrick Theatre this month, to The Afro Vibes Festival- a celebration of theatre, dance, music and culture from the new South Africa, to the BFI: 'Beyond Nollywood' screening to name but a few.

Despite the widespread misconception that Black history is about slavery, whilst that is a part of it, that is not black history in it's entirety and there is so much more to explore. I recently came across a wise quote which said, ‘Slavery isn’t black history, it interrupted black history!’.

So go out and get involved and tweet me pics and reviews of your BHM experience @Nikki_Presenter