From moments to movements: Black History Month at the University of East London
Be the change you wish to see in the world
Anulika Ajufo, our Chair of the Board of Governors and Professor Amanda Broderick, our Vice Chancellor and President share their thoughts on Black History Month
The events we have witnessed over 2020 have been truly memorable and momentous for differing reasons. We have in equal measure been reminded of just how much further we need progress in order to make black equality and inclusion a reality, as well as reminded of the human compassion and sacrifice we have had to make as a result of the global Covid-19 pandemic that has impacted many aspects of our society. However, such moments in themselves are insufficient to drive profound and long-lasting change across equality, inclusion and compassion.
For us at UEL, our 2020 Black History Month campaign seeks to highlight both the challenges we face, while also nurturing a sense of future optimism. It is with this in mind that we have curated a programme of events and activities that we hope illustrates the rich diversity of black lives and identities.
Our slogan for this year, ‘From Moments to Movement’ – could not be more fitting given the events of 2020.
We hope that the series of events inspire, challenge and educate you in equal measure. We have invited a range of guests who will remind us of the challenges that lie ahead of us at local, national and international levels. We’ll hear more about our progress on tackling the degree award gap at UEL, and how we are striving to be better at building bridges between people of different backgrounds to make anti-racism a key part of each individual’s lived experience at UEL.
We will also acknowledge and celebrate the many successes in our local community, learning from those for whom success means keeping the pipeline of black talent open, inspiring tomorrow’s leaders and creating a virtuous circle of progression.
So, we welcome you all to Black History Month, and encourage you to take part and engage in the events we have planned, and in your own unique way make it truly memorable.
The Office for Institutional Equity has created a ‘front page’ for all things BHM, so do pay regular visits there to see what is planned week by week.
As Mahatma Gandhi said, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” The change we wish to see happens day by day, and person by person. Use this Black History Month to learn more about how you can play your part in the movement.
Find out about events for this Black History Month.
Pictured: Anulika Ajufo, our Chair of the Board of Governors
| Originally published by University of East London |
| Original publication date: 01 October 2020 |
| URL: https://www.uel.ac.uk/news/2020/10/from-moments-to-movements-black-history-month-at-the-university-of-east-london |