Black History Month

About Black History Month

After visiting America in the 1970s, Ghanaian-born Akyaaba Addai Sebo, a special projects officer at the Greater London Council, founded the UK's version of Black History Month in 1987.

There are two reasons thought to be behind why Black History Month is celebrated in October in the UK.

Traditionally, October is when African chiefs and leaders gather to settle their differences, so Akyaaba chose this month to reconnect with African roots.

Additionally, many thought that since it was the beginning of the new academic year, October would give black children a sense of pride and identity.

Related Observances

22June

Windrush Day

• Diversity
• United Kingdom

The arrival of the Empire Windrush in 1948 heralded a new age of multiculturism in the UK.

Read More

22April

Earth Day

• Nature
• International

More than 1 billion people now participate in Earth Day activities each year, making it the largest civic observance in the world.

Read More

22Jun

Windrush Day

• Diversity
• United Kingdom

The arrival of the Empire Windrush in 1948 heralded a new age of multiculturism in the UK.

Read More

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

• Health
• International

Every October, people all over the world show their support for people affected by breast cancer.

Read More

National Cyber Security Awareness Month

• General
• International

Find out the dates, history and background to National Cyber Security Awareness Month.

Read More

Día del Pasillo Ecuatoriano

• Music
• Ecuador

Find out the dates, history and traditions of Día del Pasillo Ecuatoriano

Read More

International Raccoon Appreciation Day 🦝

• Animals
• International

They aren't good pets, but also, they aren't total pests. Let's take a day to celebrate these adorable rascals.

Read More