October is Black History Month. This global initiative showcases the strength, beauty and richness of multicultural international society; and inspires us to work ever harder to eradicate racism, injustice and discrimination in favour of a truly inclusive world.
This year, the theme is 'Standing Firm in Power and Pride.' With this, we're all encouraged to look deeper and learn more about the ideals, passions and events that inspired change in the past; and alongside this celebrate the courageous, trailblazing people and organisations who drove matters forward and continue to challenge and inspire us all.
Within this overarching theme, there are six different strands. Find out more about them in the Black History Month Resources Pack:
Power in Protest — Speaking Out, Standing Firm, Sparking Change
Celebrates civil rights campaigners and grassroots organisers who stood up against injustice and inspired generations through action.
Pride in Our Roots — Our History is Deep. Our Culture is Rich. Our Pride is Unshakable.
Honours centuries of Black presence in Britain, from early settlers to educators and writers, reminding us that Black history is British history.
Icons of Influence — Leadership with Purpose. Presence with Power.
Features trailblazers who transformed public life in law, politics, education, and faith, showing the importance of representation.
Black Excellence in the Arts — Resistance in Rhythm. Power in the Page.
Celebrates poets, publishers, musicians, and artists who used their creativity to inspire, challenge, and change British culture.
Future in Focus — The Present is Powerful. The Future is Ours.
Showcases the changemakers of today who are building tomorrow’s Britain with confidence, creativity, and resilience.
Service and Sacrifice — Courage in Silence. Legacy in Action.
Pays tribute to Black men and women in military, healthcare, and national service whose contributions are often overlooked but deeply significant.
The University of Aberdeen is echoing these themes with the programme of Black History Month Events across October on campus. From film nights to creative showcases and academic discussions, there is something for everyone.
Library staff have collated and are continually updating the Reading List on this topic, and are committed to building an inclusive collection. We welcome ideas and suggestions via library@abdn.ac.uk
