Black History Month (BHM) is a vibrant celebration of the lives, stories and social, cultural and political contributions of Black people - in the UK and around the world. It is now in its 35th year in the UK.
This is a time to learn more about our collective contributions; reflect on them, learn from them, share them with others and feel empowered by them to continue changing the narrative and making history.
This year’s theme Time for Change: Action Not Words, aims to highlight that while there is a history that can be acknowledged and learned from, we cannot move forward without action and working together to achieve shared goals of equality and equity. So use this time to look closer and think bigger, plan and commit to actions which make us more diverse, more inclusive, more actively anti-racist and create long-lasting change.
This means that allies must step up and do the work to support and make space for Black people.
Here at All3Media we will celebrate the depth and diversity of the Black community and show our support for racial equity, through a series of activities. An external event celebrating the power and excellence of Black talent in TV, a social media campaign and insightful conversations exploring how each of us can take action.
I also interviewed 12 members of staff across the wider group to learn a bit more about who they are, what Black History Month means to them and what they love about their jobs. You can read about them in this publication. I would also love you to share their stories.
When we celebrate one another, we realize how our differences can actually bring us together, we can take joy in each other’s success and learn about the challenges experienced along the journey.
BHM is just the start of the celebrations centred around diverse people groups and cultures at All3Media. Watch this space. Happy Black History Month.
Annika Allen
Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, All3Media