Did you know that the United Nations General Assembly has proclaimed 2011 as the International Year for People of African Decent? And throughout October, in Scotland we’re joining the rest of the world in celebrating Black History Month.
Black History Month champions the contributions, sacrifice and achievements of Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) men and women throughout the world. Equally it reaffirms the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which guarantees that all people are born free and equal in dignity and rights – and that we are all entitled to these rights and freedoms without distinction of any kind, including ethnicity.
Celebrating Black History Month with CRER in Glasgow
Things are in full swing in Glasgow and the Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights (CRER) have put on a fantastic programme of events that run throughout October. Working closely with other organisations and individuals, CRER have lined up a series of activities with some of the key highlights including:
- Black history month tour on slavery in Glasgow;
- talk on Martin Luther King;
- trip to the International Slavery Museum in Liverpool;
- talent show; and
- a range of other diverse and vibrant events, including discovering Black History with food and film.
Definitely not to be missed so check it out!
When I caught up with CRER’s Community and Campaign Officer Kam Kaur, she shared the significance of celebrating the achievements of men and women through Black History Month and also recognised the combined efforts of organisations like ourselves in raising awareness, which she felt was key in shaping Scotland’s future.
Bringing a cross-culture of communities together
But it’s not exclusive because this fantastic annual event brings together people of all cultures and ethnicities to celebrate the uniqueness of heritage and the contribution and achievements made by BME people in Scotland, including refugees and asylum seekers.
It’s an opportunity to learn about Glasgow`s past and help create a future free from racism. Importantly it provides a platform to bring together people from diverse ethnic backgrounds to celebrate, raise awareness and share culture with one another.
Celebrate black history month – attend an event!
