Celebrating black history in Cheltenham

To celebrate, a series of events will run around the town including workshops, talks, art and music.

Black History Month (BHM) celebrates the contributions and achievements that black African and Caribbean communities have made locally in Cheltenham and Gloucestershire, as well as the world over. It aims to promote knowledge of black history, culture and heritage; share information on the positive black contributions to British society; and to heighten the confidence and awareness in black people of their cultural heritage.

The month kicks off with busking in the High Street on Saturday 1 October; a Lingala Night with a Congolese Lingala band and dancers; drumming workshops, a comedy night with Mister Cee; a kanga workshop, and a celebration of African art and food events.

Cheltenham is delighted to have guest speakers such as Seyi Rhodes, television presenter and reporter for documentaries including Channel 4's ‘Unreported World’ series, who will talk about race in the media on the frontlines. 

The events are for everyone and many are free of charge.

Florence Thomas, chair of Gloucestershire African Community Foundation, said: “We are really excited about this year’s events. This is the third year that we have marked Black History Month in Cheltenham and we are pleased to have a host of new and exciting events for this year. We hope that lots of local people will get involved.”

Councillor Flo Clucas, cabinet member for healthy lifestyles, commented: “I’m delighted that Cheltenham is joining in with national and international celebrations of Black History Month this year. It is important to remember the challenges that black communities faced here in Cheltenham and across the UK and to honour the achievements, culture and history of black people.”

For full details, please see Black History Month Cheltenham on Facebook or email [email protected]

Black History Month in Cheltenham is organised by the African Community Foundation Gloucestershire with support from Cheltenham Borough Council.