Proud to Be: Black History Month 2021 at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes University is proud to once again support Black History Month this year, with the 2021 theme of ‘Proud to Be’.

October is set to be a busy and stimulating month, with online activities and events such as dance workshops, documentary screenings and public lectures from influential figures, exploring and celebrating what it means to be black, British and proud.

Professor Anne-Marie Kilday, Pro Vice-Chancellor Student and Staff Experience said of Black History Month 2021: “Black History Month is an important celebration for Oxford Brookes University, and I am looking forward to seeing staff, students and the wider public getting involved in the thought provoking discussions and events that we have planned.

“Black History Month provides an opportunity for us to learn, share and celebrate black heritage and culture, in Oxford Brookes University and beyond.”

Nina Epelle, Chair of the BAME staff network at Oxford Brookes University, said: “The events we are organising to celebrate Black History Month 2021 are all online, and will all be centered around our key message this year: Proud to Be.

“We are extremely proud to be able to deliver these events as part of the University’s participation in this annual celebration.”

Oxford Brookes’ celebration of Black History Month begins on Tuesday 5 October with an introductory workshop into the Art of Capoeira, the Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics and music.

Later in the month, inspirational social entrepreneur and youth coach Amani Simpson will share his story of being stabbed seven times by a 20-man gang in 2011, in what became a true turning point in his life.

Attendees will then have the chance to hear from the prominent Professor David Olusoga OBE, as he delivers an online lecture on Why Black History Matters.

The month will conclude with an online talk from Ambassador Andrew Young, an instrumental figure who helped to change the course of history as a leader in the American Civil Rights movement. Ambassador Young will share some lessons we can learn today from the movement.

Everyone is welcome to attend the events throughout October. To read more, please visit our Black History Month web page.