At asphaleia, we’ve been honouring Black History Month through our PSC (Personal, Social, Community) sessions, exploring the importance of Black history and celebrating the achievements of Black individuals who have shaped both UK and world history. Our young people actively participated in these discussions, offering thoughtful reflections on how we can incorporate the recognition of Black contributions into our everyday lives.
We began by introducing the history of Black History Month—why it exists and what it aims to achieve. We emphasised that this month is not just about reflecting on the past but also about fostering inclusion and celebrating the ongoing contributions of the Black community to all facets of society.
To deepen our understanding, we watched a few documentaries on the BBC, including Post-war London - Windrush Generation. This documentary provided insight into the experiences of Caribbean immigrants who played a crucial role in rebuilding post-war Britain. The film sparked meaningful conversations about migration, cultural identity, and the challenges faced by the Windrush generation, tying into broader themes of resilience and community.
Our discussions then shifted to key Black figures who have made significant contributions to history. Among the inspiring individuals we highlighted were:
Nelson Mandela, a symbol of the fight against apartheid and a beacon of hope for social justice.
Barack Obama, whose presidency marked a historic moment in the fight for racial equality in the US and globally.
The Williams Sisters, who revolutionised tennis and paved the way for Black women in sports.
Marcus Rashford, a UK footballer whose social activism, particularly around child poverty, continues to resonate deeply.
We also discussed cultural icons like Beyoncé, known for her activism and artistry, and Muhammad Ali, celebrated for his accomplishments in boxing and his unwavering stance on civil rights.
After these discussions, each young person selected one of these figures to research, diving deeper into their life stories, achievements, and the reasons they serve as inspirations. This allowed our young people to form personal connections with the narratives of resilience, leadership, and excellence that we explored. For instance, some were inspired by Marcus Rashford’s work with food poverty, while others admired Muhammad Ali’s boldness in standing up for his beliefs.
These Black History Month sessions also provided a platform for the young people to reflect on how they can actively recognise and celebrate Black achievements beyond the month. From everyday actions to ongoing support for equality initiatives, they are taking away practical ways to continue these conversations year-round.
With documentaries like Post-war London - Windrush Generation enhancing our learning and discussions about trailblazing individuals, our young people have walked away with a richer understanding of Black history, a deeper appreciation for its relevance today, and a sense of empowerment to help shape a more inclusive future.
We’re excited to see how these reflections influence their ongoing engagement and learning!