Reclaiming Narratives

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BSU launches Black History Month event series to ‘Reclaim Narratives’ in 2024

Tuesday, 1 October, 2024

Throughout October, Bath Spa University’s Black History Month Planning Group is inviting all staff and students to celebrate and mark Black History Month 2024: Reclaiming Narratives. 

Equalities Project Officer, Ayesha Chawdhry-Manek, said the team have worked hard to create a programme of informative, fun, and thought-provoking events. Their aim is to not only give voice to those stories that have gone unheard, but to also reclaim the simplicity in those everyday emotions that are often overlooked, and to celebrate the contributions of the Black community on a local and global scale. 
 
Talking about the programme of events, Ayesha said: 

“We hope to share stories of joy, of hidden histories, of work being done to face the past. Come along to events like Paint and Sip, or perhaps bowling. Or join us to watch a film that also celebrates International Lesbian Day and well as Black History Month. Explore Fairfield House, a local historical building. If you like Hamilton, there is the perfect discussion to be part of. 

“[We invite people to] learn how we can harness joy and embed it into our everyday lives. Or learn more about Bath’s histories and how local institutions are addressing their pasts. Travel the globe with Maria Petnga-Wallace or come along give your thoughts on research!” 

The BSU Library has also curated a selection of books allowing the BSU community to discover Black authors and expand their reading lists. 

Ayesha said: 

“Black history is important to us all, it allows for those voices to be amplified and elevated, it fosters a sense of community and belonging.” 

Speaking about the importance of Black History Month at BSU, Vice-Chancellor Professor Sue Rigby added: 

“Whether it’s coming on the Joy Trail or taking a trip to the Far East, or whether it’s immersing yourself in a different way to understand the history of Bath, do come along to some of the brilliant events that Ayesha and the Student Union have organised.  

“We particularly welcome all of our community into this opportunity to see the world differently and reclaim the narratives that have formed this part of the country almost more than any other.” 

Sharanjit Leyl, Bath Spa University Chancellor, also added: 

“It is really important to recognise the amazing stories out there of extraordinarily successful Black people, and people from all walks of life. It’s great to hear those stories and narratives, to show that there are many different experiences and perspectives that we can all enjoy.”

Black History Month events at BSU will run throughout the month of October. You can also find out more about race, racism and protest on our reading list and resources page.