Black History Month: The role of black British communities in shaping British culture

Written by Cara Williams, Senior Compliance Monitoring Manager.

As the UK embraces Black History Month 2024, the official theme of "Reclaiming Narratives" encourages a critical re-examination of the contributions of Black British communities to the fabric of British culture.

Why is this important?

This year’s focus invites us to look beyond the conventional recounting of black history which has often been characterised by stories of struggle and oppression.?

It encourages us to celebrate black excellence in its myriad forms, highlighting achievements across art, science, politics, and everyday life. By reclaiming narratives, we can restore agency and voice to those whose contributions have been historically marginalised or misrepresented.

This theme also urges us to confront and correct the distortions that have shaped our understanding of history and geography. Just as the world map has historically portrayed Africa in a minimised light – most notably through the Mercator projection, which inaccurately compressed the continent to fit an ill-informed worldview – so too have the stories of Black British communities been side-lined.?

This misrepresentation underscores the importance of perspective in history.

New world map is a more accurate Earth and shows Africa's full size

The “Equal Earth” projection shows the true area of continents such as Africa without greatly distorting their shapes and is already being adopted by NASA

A historical overview

The historical relationship between Britain and Africa has been long and complex, dating back centuries.

The legacies of the transatlantic slave trade and colonialism often dominate discussions, overshadowing the profound and positive impacts of African and Caribbean cultures on British society. Their contributions have frequently been overlooked or trivialised in mainstream narratives.

One compelling narrative of British black history that could be reclaimed is the story of the Windrush Generation – the black Caribbean men and women who were invited to Britain between 1948 and the early 1970s to help rebuild the country after World War II.?

This group has often been portrayed solely through a lens of hardship and marginalisation, overshadowing their profound contributions to British society. By expanding this narrative, we can honour their dignity, culture, and resilience, recognising them not just as immigrants but as integral builders of modern Britain.?

My Jamaican grandparents were part of the Windrush generation, so I recognise first hand the importance of acknowledging their contribution, in addition to their courage in answering the British government’s call to Commonwealth citizens.?

The recent deportation scandal involving the Windrush generation revealed that many members of this group faced wrongful detention, deportation, and loss of rights due to a hostile immigration policy. The government’s failure to properly document their status led to widespread outrage, prompting calls for accountability, reparations, and a public apology for the injustices faced by the Windrush community.

Who were the Windrush generation and what is Windrush Day?

Black British contributions

Black British communities have enriched the nation through music, literature, politics, and sports.?

In literature, figures like author Malorie Blackman, whose works challenge societal norms, have shaped the literary landscape. Music is also a testament to this cultural exchange, from the revolutionary sounds of reggae, jazz and dub to the emergence of UK rap, which have transformed the British music scene.

The impact of some lesser known, yet notable black British figures include:

• John Kent: Britain's first black policeman, Kent broke barriers in law enforcement while advocating for racial equality and social justice. His pioneering role highlighted the systemic challenges faced by black communities in the UK and served as a catalyst for change within the police force and beyond. John Kent - Lakeland Arts

• Wilston Samuel Jackson: Britain’s first black train driver, Jackson was a civil rights activist and community organiser who advocated for social justice during the 20th century. His groundbreaking career in the rail industry and his work in education helped empower marginalised voices and foster a sense of solidarity among black Britons. King's Cross: Plaque unveiled for Britain's first black train driver

• Margaret Busby: A pioneering publisher and literary figure, Busby co-founded the influential publishing house Allison & Busby. She has played a crucial role in promoting black writers and literature, significantly shaping the landscape of black British literature and culture. Margaret Busby | The Booker Prizes

Education and Awareness

As we engage with the theme of reclaiming narratives during Black History Month, it’s crucial to incorporate this perspective into educational frameworks.?

Fostering open discussions about the misrepresentation and underrepresentation of Black narratives in history, promotes critical thinking and empathy among all individuals. This awareness can serve as a catalyst for societal change, encouraging a more equitable representation in media, literature, and public life.

By challenging the distorted perspectives that have historically marginalised these voices, we can acknowledge their significant role in the development of British culture. As we honour their achievements, let us commit to continuing this reclamation, ensuring that future generations inherit a more complete and accurate understanding of history – one that recognises and celebrates the extraordinary contributions of black individuals and communities across Britain.?

In reclaiming these narratives, we not only uplift the past but also inspire a brighter, more inclusive future together.