This week, we have the privilege of coming together to commemorate 75 years of Black History Month. Our assemblies will focus on the profound purpose of Black History Month: challenging prejudice and racism in all its forms. As Mr. M Lloyd, Head of History, noted, it’s crucial that we all strive to be allies, not bystanders, in the fight for equality.

Here’s a summary of the key figures and themes discussed during the assembly:

Harriet Tubman – a former slave who liberated herself and went on to establish the ‘Underground Railroad,’ which freed an estimated 1.2 million slaves. Her bravery and determination serve as an inspiration to us all.

Ida B. Wells – who made remarkable efforts in creating the anti-racism newspaper ‘Southern Horrors’ and provided a platform for the Black community to communicate and coordinate their fight for equality. With over 20 million subscribers, her work played a pivotal role in the struggle for civil rights.

Rosa Parks – for her courageous act of refusing to give up her seat on a bus to a white man, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycotts. This event led to one of the longest periods of civil unrest in America, as Black people nationwide refused to use the buses, making a powerful statement for justice.

Malorie Blackman – thetalented writer who penned ‘Noughts and Crosses,’ a thought-provoking book that imagines a world where the experiences of black and white people are reversed. Her work encourages us to reflect on societal inequalities.

President Lincoln – for hisrole in winning the American Civil War and issuing the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared all slaves free-a monumental step towards equality.

Martin Luther King and Malcolm X – these iconic figures were at the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement during the 1950s and 1960s, advocating for racial equality and justice through non-violent and more militant means, respectively.

President Lyndon B. Johnson – for the Civil Rights movement that led to the passage of the Civil Rights Act, granting Black people the right to vote, work, and receive equal education.

The Windrush Generation – in recognition of this year’s Black History Month theme, we explored the experiences of the Windrush Generation. They came to Britain after World War II, faced adversity and exploitation but contributed significantly to the country. We also spotlighted Clyde Best, who pursued a football career and rose above racism in his path to success.

Mr M Lloyd, Head of History, said: “This week, our pupils from Year 7 to Year 13 will be discovering which significant leaders advocated for equality throughout history. This year’s theme is ‘Saluting Our Sisters,’ in which we shine a light on the pivotal women who challenged prejudice and fought for civil rights through the years. In the assembly, pupils will learn about how to check their privilege, how to act as an ally to those most in need, and how to challenge discrimination in a positive way. As future citizens, it is imperative that we teach our pupils to stand up for what is right, and give them the role models they need to build the community that they want.”

Thank you to Mr. M Lloyd for his insightful presentation this week. Let us all continue to learn, grow, and make a positive impact in the world.

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