Worcester will mark Black History Month with a celebration event at the Guildhall on Saturday 5 October between 11am and 3pm.
“Our Cultural Heritage” is a free event and everyone is welcome.
There will be a welcome from the Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Mel Allcott, and the Council’s iconic building will be filled with music, poetry and dancing from different Black cultures and communities.
There will also be free food to sample along with workshops, social history exhibitions, kids craft activities and talks.
Last year saw the first Guildhall event, which drew a large crowd. It was hosted by Worcester City Council, alongside members of the community including Worcester Afro Caribbean Association, Association of Igbos in Worcestershire and Worcester Anti Racism Initiative groups.
Building on that success, volunteers and attendees have joined together to form Worcestershire Black Cultural Association (WBCA). Involving pensioners, professionals, families and students, this new Association is led by local people who share the aim of celebrating their Black heritage and culture in Worcester.
WBCA has worked closely with the City Council to organise this year’s event, with the continued support of the other cultural associations.
Worcester City Council’s Communities Committee Chair, Councillor Jabba Riaz said: “We are delighted that Our Cultural Heritage is returning for a second year.
“It was brilliant to see so many people attend last year to share their heritage and food with the community.
“With the help of Worcestershire Black Cultural Association we hope to build the event and attract even more people from different cultures and backgrounds.
“Our aim is to foster a culture of learning and understanding.”
Ronke Akintan, Co-Chair of Worcestershire Black Cultural Association hopes the event will also attract new members to their new community group.
She said: “Our Cultural Heritage event is essential as it unites our community for a meaningful purpose. It aims to preserve and showcase our diverse cultures while helping individuals integrate into our community.
“Witnessing the rich tapestry of different cultures through food, dance, and more is truly inspiring. Join our Association to be part of our community.”
Fellow WBCA Co-Chair Eltayeb Bashar added: “Last year’s event was an incredible achievement of representation and inclusion for historically marginalised communities.
“It built bridges and united the community in celebration, and we hope to build off that success.”
To mark Black History Month in Worcester a commemorative flag will be flown in Cathedral Square, with a raising ceremony being held at 4pm on Tuesday 1 October.
The Hive and Crowngate Shopping Centre will both be hosting Black History Month displays during October.
