A lot of the British history has fundamental parts of African and Caribbean embedded inside of it, unfortunately it has been overlooked and ignored for centuries in society. Although we have come along way, especially since last spring where we had the unfortunate death of George Floyd which shook the whole entire world to take a moment to reflect on the brutality of black people not just in America but also here in the UK. Although racism, segregation and discrimination may not be as visible, it still happens every day.
In the 21st century, not enough children in school or even adults are educated on the black history in this country and Black History Month gives everyone the opportunity to share, embrace, celebrate and most importantly understand the influence we have had. This where we as society fail sometimes, although the spring and summer of 2020 was a tragic period for us Black people, it gave the rest an opportunity to look at themselves and examine if they are aiding to the problem in society or they are actively changing the problem. I believe you can only change the world if you yourself become the change first, it all starts with us. What are you willing to do, willing to learn, willing to say, willing to change?
For me, this is a moment to rejoice and celebrate all the achievements and the leadership of black men and women. To give thanks to all those who gave me hope and taught not just me but the world a lesson that I will be able to pass down to future generations to come.
Coming from an African heritage, which I am extremely proud of, I have experienced both the beauty of black culture and history as well as the brunt of it. I was born in Amsterdam, where I never experienced racism, segregation or any form of injustice because I was black or African, my school was incredibly diverse and so was the area I grew up in. When I moved to Swindon at the tender age of 6, my family and I endured years of racial abuse, injustices and the list goes on, I was always made to feel so different; an outcast most my life, be it because of my hair, speaking different languages or simply because of my black features. So, to see how now, almost 15 years later, how the British society has developed, although it still has a long way to go, I know that my children will have a better up bringing in society than I did because of how the millennial generation is shaping and changing the world today.
I want others to understand, that educating yourself and those around you about black culture and history is not just subject to simply 31 days, but it is a continuous development and celebration, understanding that there is no limit to the black culture because every day there is something new worth celebrating, whether big or small. Black History Month should be a celebration for all races and all genders, it is more than just colour. It is about the evolution of the society.
About the Author
Christine recently joined Become as our new Business Administration Apprentice, so will always be the first voice you here when you call in! Having previously studied Musical Theatre at a local drama school, she is excited about taking her first steps in her recruitment career. Christine plays a vital role in helping our candidates to take their first steps in their careers, so please reach out to her here.