These contributions made by leaders and activists from the Black Community have had a profound impact on history but also paved the way for a future of continued growth with the two key values being Power and Pride.
Power represents the ability to be able to effect change and both individually and collectively – creating a more equitable future for all. These were the people who were politicians and civil rights leaders amongst others.
Pride focuses on culture, heritage, and the concept of knowing and embracing black history and using this to shape the future.
Many key anniversaries fall in Black History Month 2025 – the 60th anniversary of the Race Relations Act, the death of Malcolm X, and the Bristol Bus Boycott, led by Paul Stephenson.
Black History Month is a time for reflection and looking at how to empower positive change for the future.
It’s also a time to celebrate outstanding contributions made by the Black community and listening to and telling the stories about historical figures to inspire the next generation.
One of the most important aims of Black History Month is to give Black individuals a voice and celebrate the achievements of those Black individuals who have not yet received the recognition they deserve.
Black History Month honours individuals in a range of disciplines, including politicians, civil rights activists, entrepreneurs, artists and healthcare professionals.
Did you know?
1915
Black History Month originated in the United States with the first event taking place in 1915 (half a century after the abolition of slavery) .
1987
Black History Month started as a week-long celebration and became a month. From 1926 – 1976 it was only a weeklong celebration recognising the achievements of the Black community and Black individuals. The UK version of Black History Month emerged in 1987.
1853
Black History Month is celebrated in February in the US and October in the UK and Europe. This is because February is the birth month of Abraham Lincoln – the 16th US President who passed the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 effectively banning slavery.
Black History Month and mental health
If you experience racism as a Black African or Black Caribbean person in Bradford or indeed anywhere, it can leave you feeling unsafe, unwelcome, and like you don’t have a fair chance of succeeding. If you’re finding things tough, we want you to know you’re not alone.
This month you’ll be hearing a lot about Black people’s experiences – both past and present, both positive and negative. Sometimes this might feel inspiring and at other times tough.
Black History Month highlights the ongoing need to address racial inequities in mental health, such as historical trauma, stigma, and systemic biases, while also celebrating Black pioneers and advocating for culturally relevant care such as the Hope and Light programme. There is historical trauma that the effects of racism and slavery have created. This generational trauma within Black communities can impact mental health and well-being.
If you’re struggling this Black History Month and beyond, Hope and Light is here to support you.
Black individuals may experience a lack of culturally responsive services, leading to feelings of invisibility, misdiagnosis, and an overall poor experience with mental health systems.
Hope and Light
To help overcome these barriers, BDC Mind and a group of partner organisations have come together to provide culturally responsive mental health services for Black African, Black Caribbean, Central and Eastern European (including Roma) and South Asian communities. This programme is called Hope and Light.
The approach of Hope and Light is built on cultural awareness, ensuring our services align with the community’s values and lived experiences. Your perspective matters to us. By actively listening and collaborating with you, we develop mental health services that are meaningful and impactful – for the community in the community.
Hope and Light strives to build strong, community-focused mental health services that cater to diverse needs while respecting cultural identities through group and one to one support.
Did you know?
Europe
In the UK and Europe Black History Month is celebrated in October to recognise the differences from Black people’s experiences in the US.
Woodson
Carter G. Woodson – an American scholar – is credited with starting Black History Month in America back in 1926. He was only the second Black American to graduate from Harvard University with a PhD.
US President
Black History Month first became official in 1976 – the then US President, Gerald Ford, officially recognised Black History Month in 1976. He encouraged citizens to “seize the opportunity to honour the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavour throughout our history”.