 Marking Black History Month
October marked Black History Month, offering a time to reflect and celebrate the strength, resilience and contributions of the Black Community across the world and throughout history.
This year's theme, 'Standing Firm in Power and Pride', represents two core values. It highlights the importance of the power to influence, lead and cause positive change in society and also celebrates cultural identity, heritage and the contribution of the Black Community.
Locally, the month was marked by moments of reflection, cultural events and efforts to raise awareness about the importance of inclusion. These activities helped shine a light on the value of diverse voices and experiences, encouraging us all to continue learning, listening and standing together.
 Walter Infant School pupils try African drumming
Throughout October, schools across the borough took part in a range of events to mark Black History Month.
At Walter Infant School, pupils in Year 1 and 2 took part in an energetic African Drumming Workshop.
Led by a skilled instructor, the children learned traditional rhythms and had the chance to experiment with beat and tempo, creating their own vibrant sounds.
As part of their learning, pupils also explored the lives and legacies of influential Black figures including Rosa Parks, Len Johnson, Mae Jemison and Marcus Rashford.
Through stories, discussions and creative work, the children deepened their understanding of these Black trailblazers and the impact they had on history and society.
 The Emmbrook School embraces cultural classics
At The Emmbrook School, students took part in lessons that explored key moments and figures from Black History, reflecting on the past, present and future. These sessions encouraged thoughtful discussion around identity, equality and the importance of recognising diverse contributions to society.
The celebrations culminated in a vibrant lunch event in the school canteen, where pupils came together to enjoy a variety of cultural dishes.
The menu featured bold and flavourful options such as Rasta Pasta, a Reggae Reggae chicken-rice box with pineapple salsa, and a rich Jamaican beef stew. The event was a great opportunity for students to experience and appreciate different culinary traditions, sparking conversations and curiosity about the cultures behind the food.
 Winnersh Primary School pupils share work
Pupils from across all year groups at Winnersh Primary School came together for a vibrant sharing assembly to mark Black History Month. The event was a wonderful opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and learning.
The assembly featured a display of artwork, created using a variety of materials including coloured pencils, pens, and leaves. Each piece reflected the pupils’ thoughtful engagement with Black History and culture.
A lively dance performance inspired by Strictly Come Dancing’s Oti Mabuse brought energy and excitement to the room, while other pupils gave powerful presentations on key historical figures such as Claudia Jones and Doreen Lawrence. They also highlighted landmark events like the Bristol Bus Boycott, helping to bring important stories to life.
 Bearwood Primary School welcomes workshops
Bearwood Primary School celebrated the theme Standing Firm in Power and Pride, with a special focus on Afro hair as a symbol of Black pride and identity.
The month of activities began with a powerful workshop from the Osun Arts Foundation, where pupils took part in African drumming, dance and storytelling, including a talk from a descendant of a Benin warrior.
Throughout Black History Month, weekly assemblies explored respect and identity.
Children with Afro hair attended break-time workshops using a professional hairdresser’s mannequin, creating space for peer support and discussion.
PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) lessons across the school highlighted stories of pride and resilience, with older pupils learning about real-life discrimination and bravery.
The celebrations concluded with a pupil-led assembly and an International Attire Day, where children wore clothing reflecting their heritage. This year’s event also featured an international food sale, bringing the school community together in celebration.
 My Hair - a poem by Salena Fenton, Year 3, Bearwood Primary School (second from right)
My hair is my crown
My hair is both my mum and dad
My hair reminds me that I come from African and Caribbean queens
My hair is curly and coily
Sometimes it’s not easy
Sometimes it hurts
But it reminds me I am strong and can do anything
My hair isn’t a pillow
Please don’t touch it
I can have braids, cornrows, twists and puffs
My hair can be everything and is everything
My hair isn’t too big
Don’t ask me to pat it down
MY AFRO IS MY CROWN
 Libraries put on displays
Throughout October, libraries across the borough marked Black History Month with vibrant displays showcasing historic milestones, thought-provoking literature and the powerful voices of Black authors.
From Lower Earley Library to Woodley Library, each location offered a unique tribute to the month, inviting visitors to explore stories that inspire, educate and celebrate Black Heritage.
A special Black History Month magazine was also available in libraries, packed with exclusive content, including:
- Interviews with national figures such as Lord Boateng, Baroness Young and Baroness Benjamin.
- Tributes honouring Lord Herman Ouseley and Paul Stephenson, with reflections from Patrick Vernon OBE.
- Historical features marking the 60th anniversary of the Race Relations Act, the death of Malcolm X and the African Conference.
- Stories across generations — from trailblazers of the past to young leaders shaping Britain’s future.
- Spotlights on organisations and initiatives making a difference in communities today.
 Looking to the future
As we move beyond Black History Month, we carry forward the conversations, connections and commitments sparked throughout October. The work of building a more inclusive and unified community doesn't end with the month — it continues in our everyday actions and choices.
We leave you with these powerful words from Rachel 'Ray' Hassan, CEO of Citizens Advice Wokingham: "We need to unify as a community. When we start segregating people and making them different, we end up isolating those communities. And what we need to do is recognise that we have differences as people. That's what makes us beautiful - our differences, but actually we have more in common than we do our differences. If we focus on our commonalities, that will unify us as a community, and then we respect the differences and make sure that we value them.
"I think for us in Wokingham, we have an opportunity to educate people. We have an opportunity to come together with the resources we have and pool them and make them have a better reach, a better impact by coming together."
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