October was first designated as Black History Month in the United Kingdom during 1987 by the former London Strategic Policy Unit, as part of its celebration of African Jubilee Year 1987-88. The decision to make this an annual event was endorsed by the then Association of London Authorities and over the next decade Black History Month became a regular feature of celebrations within the cultural calendars of all London boroughs and several Metropolitan and City Councils around the country.
Today almost every region of the UK celebrates Black History Month and libraries, museums, galleries, archives and other public venues put on events to highlight the longevity of the Black and Asian presence in the UK and celebrate the nation's diverse cultural heritage. |
