October marks Black History Month in the UK, and we’re proud to be celebrating it here at North Kent College. While many of us recognise the month as a time of reflection and celebration, its origins tell a powerful story of determination and pride.
Black History Month was first officially celebrated in the United States in 1976, but its roots reach further back to Carter G. Woodson, an American historian, author, and journalist born in 1875. Woodson was one of the first scholars to study the history of the African diaspora and founded The Journal of Negro History in 1916. In 1926, he launched what was then called Negro History Week, which coincided with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two figures who played significant roles in the fight for freedom and equality.
The event grew over time, and by 1976, every US president had recognised February as Black History Month. In the UK, the celebration was officially marked for the first time in 1987, the year of the African Jubilee, thanks to Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, a Ghanaian analyst and activist. Addai-Sebo was inspired to create a UK celebration to help young Black people develop pride in their identity and heritage. He envisioned an annual event honouring the contributions of Africa, Africans, and people of African descent to world civilisation, a vision that continues to inspire today’s celebrations.
This Year’s Theme for Black History Month is Standing Firm in Power and Pride. The 2025 theme encourages us to recognise the strength, resilience, and accomplishments of Black communities across generations. It’s a reminder to stand proudly in our history and to continue celebrating the progress and contributions that shape society today.
This October, we’ll be marking Black History Month with a series of interactive events designed to raise awareness, spark conversation, and celebrate Black heritage and culture across our campuses. There will be Black History Month quizzes across multiple campuses and an Awareness Stall of Monday 13th & Wednesday 15th October from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm on Dartford Campus.
These events are a great opportunity to learn more about Black history, challenge stereotypes, and celebrate the incredible contributions of Black individuals both past and present.
We hope you’ll take time this month to reflect, learn, and engage in celebrating the rich heritage that Black History Month represents. To find out more about the history, themes, and stories behind this year’s celebration, visit blackhistorymonth.org.uk.