Celebrate Black History Month at local events across the borough

There are a number of events happening across Richmond upon Thames throughout the month of October to celebrate Black History Month.

Black History Month, which takes place every October, is all about celebrating black excellence in all forms and provides an important opportunity to highlight the history, heritage and voices of black communities.

Themed ‘Reclaiming Narratives’, this year’s Black History Month will feature the untold stories, the unsung heroes, and the everyday individuals who have made an indelible impact on our communities.

Throughout the month, there are plenty of events and activities in the borough celebrating Black History Month. 

Library book displays

During October, Richmond Library and our eLibraries will be celebrating Black History Month through a great range of books and literature. The book displays will feature a mix of genres including fiction, non-fiction, young adult books and more for residents to explore.

View the collection of books connected to black history on Cloud Library and BorrowBox.

Black History Month events

Events taking place in the borough to celebrate Black History Month.

Celebrating 100 years of James Baldwin with Kadija George Sesay

On Thursday 3 October, local bookshop Books on the Rise is running an interactive session with Kadija George and some of the collections’ contributors to celebrate the centenary of the birth of the trailblazing African American author.

Island Movements

On Saturday 5 October, Black British Ballet’s epic new performance will be on stage at Richmond Library Annexe. Come along to experience a mix of reggae, calypso, and contemporary Black British music!

A Taste of Africa: A Multicultural Full of Life Event 

On Thursday, 24 October, older adults are invited to join Multicultural Richmond for an African dance performance, along with wellbeing sessions including massage, Zumba, reflexology, and more, supported by our Full of Life Fund. 

A Ripple in Time

This free exhibition explores the philosophy of Dub, a genre of music that originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s. Attendees are invited to discover the layers of sound, time, and identity, reflect on our shared past, and contemplate the threads that connect us. Come along and be part of this exhibition before 23 February 2025!

Find out more about Black History Month events happening in the borough.

If you are hosting a Black History Month event, please email details to communitynews@richmond.gov.uk so we can include it on the page.