Celebrate Black History Month with Lambeth: Events and Activities in Love Lambeth
As we approach October, Lambeth is gearing up to celebrate Black History Month with a variety of events and activities across the borough. Partnering with local organizations and creative partners, Lambeth Libraries will be hosting free events that showcase the rich African and Caribbean history and heritage that is integral to the community.
Cllr Donatus Anyanwu, the Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, is excited about the upcoming celebrations. He encourages everyone to join in the festivities and take the opportunity to learn about and appreciate the contributions of the Windrush generation and the wider African and Caribbean communities to Lambeth’s culture.
One of the highlights of the month will be a celebration of James Baldwin’s centenary, where participants can discuss the life and legacy of the Windrush pioneer known as “Mr Brixton.” Janet Alder will also be present to discuss her fight for justice after her brother’s tragic death in police custody.
In the literary world, Maame Blue’s powerful novel “The Rest of You” will be explored, along with discussions on themes of identity and heritage in works by authors Jendella Benson and Shani Akllah. Yasmin Gledhill will shed light on the Nazi persecution of the Black German community, while Kimberly McIntosh will tackle issues of systematic injustice and toxic relationships in her work.
Culture will take center stage with events such as Pegasus Opera’s Legacy and Hope concert, Island Movements’ Windrush modern ballet, and a mashup video documentary on British History, Black Music, Racism, and The Music Industry. Lambeth Archives will also be celebrating three centuries of Shakespeare in Lambeth, with a focus on Othello starring Black actors.
The ‘Island Movements’ showcase will include an Open Mic Poetry and Spoken Word Night in honor of National Poetry Day, featuring readings from renowned poet Benjamin Zephaniah and a minute-by-minute depiction of a house party by Caleb Femi. Film screenings will include discussions led by Toni Morrison on race, history, and America, as well as a documentary screening with director Cathy Hassan.
In addition to these events, the Lambeth LGBTQ+ book group will be delving into themes of love and brotherhood in Black gay Britain through Jason Okundaye’s Revolutionary Acts. Mixed heritage will also be explored through the Mixed Up podcast hosts in The Half of It.
With an array of events and activities planned throughout the month, Black History Month in Lambeth promises to be a time of learning, celebration, and reflection on the rich cultural heritage of the African and Caribbean communities in the borough. Join in the festivities and be a part of this important celebration of history and culture.