“So many people are oblivious to the contribution our ancestors made”: Black History Month Reflections with Ruth
As Black History Month, the month of October, draws to a close, we reflect on why it’s so important to mark this month, to celebrate Black history and chat with Breadwinner and Proofer Ruth on her perceptions of Black History Month. You can watch the official intro to Black History Month 2020 below.
Why is Black History Month important?
Black History Month is a national celebration imported from the States, with the aim of recognising and promoting the Black contribution to British society. You might wonder why it is important to dedicate a whole month to celebrating Black history – but the real answer is that we should be celebrating and centring Black history throughout the whole year, and having a whole month to draw focus onto Black experience with events, articles and discussion is the least we need.
In this vein, Black History Month can help us:
recognise and celebrate the contribution that people of colour made to society, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the social, political, economic and cultural development of the UK
fuel the conversation about poor representation of Black people in workplaces, media, institutions
increase awareness among non-Black people, and it challenge white privilege status-quo, especially around the way that history, especially in the UK, is taught and remembered
educate white people on how to talk (and not talk) about racism, race and privilege
reflect about race equality and fairness; it gives time to assess in what position on the ladder of equality each of us stand and what actions we can make to climb further
Ruth reflects on Black History Month
We also sat down with Breadwinner and Proofer Ruth, who discussed with us what Black History Month means to her.
Q: Why do you think is important to celebrate Black History Month?
It’s important to acknowledge our history because so many people are still oblivious of the contribution that our ancestors made to the British history and how much they fought for it.
Q: What has your experience of racism been like in the UK?
I laugh as a coping mechanism, so I tend not to notice when someone makes a racist comment toward me. If I show them that I am weak, then they will feel empowered and do it again.
Q: What suggestions can you give to white folks on how to recognise white privilege and dismantle it?
I really want to say a simple thing: don’t be racist. See the person before colour and treat everyone with respect regardless of their nationality or race – and also read and research and learn more before judging. End the fight.
Want to find out more?
If you want to learn more about Black history as October draws to a close, then take a look at the official Black History Month website, which contains loads of articles and resources, and the Guardian has put together a collection of articles around Black History Month.
You can also support us to help make the UK a more equal and welcoming place for young people of colour from around the world by supporting our work with Breadwinners. You can buy from us, donate, or offer your time as a volunteer. We appreciate it greatly!