Black History Month

The University of Leicester is proud to celebrate Black History Month this October. The month marks and explores Black stories both past and present to highlight the achievements, experiences, and successes of Black cultural figures and communities. Through using creative mediums such as art, storytelling, and entertainment, we are given a glimpse into the lives and experiences of our Black communities.

At Leicester, our staff, students, and wider community have come together year after year to take part in our celebrations, which include a host of interactive events, activities, and sessions to recognise pinnacle moments, achievements, and cultural highlights within the Black community.

The University, along with the Attenborough Arts Centre, the Students’ Union, and the Staff Multi-Ethnicity Forum are proud to be celebrating Black History Month this year and hope that you can join us for this month and beyond.

A message from Nishan Canagarajah - President and Vice-Chancellor

Black History Month provides a great opportunity to celebrate and reflect on where we have made good progress and where we still need to do more. There are several initiatives that the University is proud to have developed to support our Black students and staff. This year’s theme for the month is ‘Reclaiming Narratives’ goes beyond simply revisiting history and marks a significant shift towards recognising and repairing the narratives of Black history and culture. This theme underscores a commitment to correcting historical inaccuracies and showcasing the untold success stories and the full complexity of Black heritage. 

I strongly encourage you to participate in events and activities throughout Black History Month, and join us in celebrating the people, history and culture that make this month so special.

Read full statements from Nishan Canagarajah and our Students' Liberation Officer