Celebrating culture, heritage and impact

This October, Leicester is alive with events and activities to mark Black History Month, celebrating the rich contributions of Black individuals and communities to British society. It's a fantastic time to learn, engage, and participate in events that spotlight Black culture, history, and heritage.

The University of Leicester, in collaboration with the Students’ Union and the Attenborough Arts Centre, has a packed schedule of events aimed at sparking conversations and showcasing Black talent. Highlights include poetry, music, film screenings, and exhibitions.

Not-to-miss events:

• WORD! and Renaissance One present Caribbean Woman - A Tribute Through Poetry, Words and SongThis powerful event celebrates Caribbean women in the UK arts scene. It features performances by award-winning artists like Valda Jackson and Mellow Baku, all inspired by Jean ‘Binta’ Breeze’s impactful poem Caribbean Woman. This is a unique opportunity to engage with Caribbean creativity through spoken word, music, and art.
• One Night in Miami Film Screening - Join fellow students for a screening of One Night in Miami, a film exploring a fictionalised meeting between Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, and other notable figures of the Civil Rights Movement. The film will be followed by discussions on the themes of racial identity and activism.
• Tim Fowler: The Ground Exhibition - Leicester-based artist Tim Fowler’s exhibition, “The Ground,” explores his Bajan heritage through a botanical lens, connecting West African history with the Caribbean and the UK. This exhibit provides a reflective and visual way to engage with Leicester’s diverse cultural history.

How you can get involved

Students can join workshops, attend film screenings, or simply take time to visit exhibitions around the city. From learning about personal branding with Lord Simon Woolley to participating in creative coaching workshops, there are events that cater to a variety of interests.

This month is a chance for students to explore Leicester's diverse Black heritage, contribute to important discussions, and gain inspiration from the stories of influential Black figures across the UK and beyond.

To find out more about events happening during Black History Month in Leicester, check the University of Leicester’s Black History Month page and the Visit Leicester blog.