The achievements, identities and culture of black communities will be celebrated during October, as part of a diverse programme of activities supported by Tower Hamlets Council for Black History Month.
Exhibitions, film, dance, workshops, plays and other events taking place throughout the month will showcase the richness of black history and culture.
Community organisation Alternative Arts will present Power and Glory, a collection of dynamic and diverse contemporary black photographers exploring history and identity with a series of stunning images inspired by womanhood, carnival, courage, gender equality, climate change, survival and freedom. The show, running from 6 to 29 October at Brady Arts Centre, Whitechapel, is a celebration of black culture, demonstrating new perspectives in photography.
Young people can learn skills with Purple Moon Drama’s film sessions on the covid-recovery theme of ‘the come-back is stronger than the set-back’ and Grand Union Orchestra will be using workshops to engage young people through the life-affirming, global yet culturally specific and joyful production of music, with a variety of styles and instruments.
Poplar Union are engaging young people with three bespoke events which include Things I can Laugh About, a theatre show and workshop focusing on young people’s mental health and wellbeing.
Lutfur Rahman, Mayor of Tower Hamlets, said:
“Tower Hamlets’ diverse communities help shape our exciting and vibrant borough, and Black History Month provides a chance to discover amazing stories and histories that are often overlooked.
“It is also a brilliant catalyst for coming together and reconnecting after the isolation of Covid lockdowns.”
Councillor Iqbal Hossain, Cabinet Member for Culture and Recreation said:
“Mental health and wellbeing is a priority for 2022, and we are proud that many of the month’s youth programmes have been supported by the Mayor’s Covid Recovery Fund as a way to develop skills, confidence and teamwork through engaging with the arts.”
