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Black History Month 2023 featuring Pauline Black
Image Credit: Brian Aris
March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom where Dr Martin Luther King Jr delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech. 28 August 1963.
Image Credit: The Everett Collection
BLACK HISTORY MONTH LEICESTER
Each Black History Month, Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage and partners across Leicester host a range of exciting activities that are designed to educate, inspire and entertain people of all ages. From exhibitions and workshops to talks and performances, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Black History Month in October shines a spotlight on the fantastic events and opportunities led by Black artists and practitioners year-round.
Theme
Each year focuses on a particular theme. 2023 is a particularly poignant year for Black history locally, nationally and internationally. It marks the seventy-fifth anniversary of the arrival of the HMT Empire Windrush. With this in mind, Serendipity have been exploring the Representation, Relocation and Revelation exploring the connections and legacy between the UK and the Caribbean. The theme of Resistance also strongly influences events throughout October acknowledging the sixtieth anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr’s “I Have a Dream” speech and ten years since the founding of the Black Lives Matter movement.
BlackInk
BlackInk is a magazine published by Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage each October for Black History Month. Focusing on Black arts, heritage and cultural politics, the publication presents high quality illustration and photography alongside critical analysis from leaders across the arts and heritage sector. Each year a new cohort of emerging artists and writers are supported through Launchpad and the new writing competition. BlackInk brings together a range of interconnected international voices from across the African and African Caribbean Diaspora and indigenous communities.
Film
Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage host a film programme at Phoenix throughout Black History Month. Films focus on particular themes and highlights from previous editions include examining the significance of the Blaxploitation genre, a spotlight on jazz musicians through the ages and documentaries amplifying Afro-Latinx voices.
BlackChat
BlackChat is a year-round programme of talks and round table discussions where everyone is welcome to be part of the conversation. Typically focusing on a key theme or provocation, it is an opportunity to learn more about key topics, share insight into issues affecting the Black community and celebrate trailblazing artists and activists.
