Black History Month 2009
See below for events to celebrate Black History Month during October. All events are free unless stated.
Libraries
CLR James Library
CLR James Library
24-30 Dalston Lane
E8 3AZ
Tel: 020 8356 1665
Web: CLR James Library
The History of Black Leadership with Kola Olutimehin and Thandi Haruperi
Monday 5 October, 6 -7.30pm
Motivational speakers Kola Olutimehin and Thandi Haruperi will present a talk that will provide the history of black people in leadership. Age 16+. No booking required
I-Storians - Dee Two-Four Carat Silver and Oma-Ra
Monday 12 October, 10.30am - 12pm
Interactive storytelling with Bishop Ngoma with invited guests from Princess May School. Age 7 and 8 years. No booking required.
Jewellery Making
Saturday 17 October, 2 - 4pm
Come along and have fun designing and making your own jewellery in African style. Age 5+. Children aged 5 years must be accompanied by an adult. No booking required.
Operation Black Vote: Black leadership in the UK and shadowing, mentoring and citizenship schemes
Thursday 22 October, 7 - 8pm
Operation Black Vote is the first initiative to focus exclusively on the Black democratic deficit in the UK, with the belief that without a strong political voice for African, Asian, Caribbean and other ethnic minorities, the ideal of equality of opportunity - regardless of race and colour - will remain an ideal.
Operation Black Vote will talk about the status of black leadership in the UK and the opportunity to participate in their comprehensive programme which involves political education, participation and representation. Age 16+ - no booking required.
A Taste of Africa
Thursday 29 October, 2 - 4pm
Come and enjoy a taste of African cultural dance/food, singing, and storytelling (Gbam Gbam) with Clementina. Children’s event – but all ages are welcome. Children aged 5 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. No booking required.
Hackney Central Library
Hackney Central Library
Hackney Technology and Learning Centre
1 Reading Lane
E8 1GQ
Tel: 020 8356 2542
Web: Central Library
BHM Launch Day
Thursday 1 October, 12 - 4pm
Come and find out information about all the events and book yourself into available workshops. Bun, cheese and plenty of chat is on hand! There will also be a free raffle to win children books. Meet Mr Felix Joseph, Steel Pan designer whose cultural collection will be on display at the library throughout October. Crafts and artefacts in the collection have been pieced together from his travels to Africa and the Caribbean. All ages. Children aged 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required.
The History of Black Authors with Kola Olutimehin
Saturday 3 October, 5.30 -7pm
Kola will present personal examples of what he has achieved in this field. Attendees will be inspired to follow their aspirations in this field. Kola is an internationally acclaimed inspirational speaker, author, corporate trainer and business consultant. All ages. Children aged 5 years and under must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required. Refreshments served.
Cross Currents Days
Monday 5 October, 12pm - 4pm
Be part of a creative project with Lydia Julien who will be making a collage of immigration, emigration and crossings whatever your native land. Souvenirs or keepsakes of passage are welcome, which will then be photographed. All welcome. Children aged 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required.
Teenage reading group discussing Street Boys by Tim Prichard with special guest author and poet Kwame M A McPherson
Wednesday 7 October, 6 -7.30pm
Kwame McPherson will lead a group discussion exploring how real stories are. How and why they’re created and what makes a good story. Using examples and group participation, Kwame will examine how you can create a good story that teaches, captivates, motivates and inspires the reader. If you wish to join the waiting list for this group please contact Linda Sammon at Hackney Central Library. Ages 13 -19 years, no booking required.
Poetry Advice 1-2-1
Thursday 8 October, 4 -7pm
An amazing opportunity to get feedback or advice from author, poet, motivational speaker and mentor Kwame McPherson who will be on hand to kick start your creative juices or give advice on your poetry compositions. Each session lasts 20-25mins. See Kwame McPherson and www.youtube.com for further information on Kwame McPherson. All ages. Children aged 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult, booking required.
African Style Bead Making
Saturday 10 October, 2 - 4pm
Make a peace bracelet or necklace. Plus stay and play-colour sheets and word searches for all ages! Age 5+, 5 year olds must be accompanied by adult. No booking required.
Cross Currents Days
Monday 12 October, 12pm - 4pm
Be part of a creative project with Lydia Julien who will be making a collage of immigration, emigration and crossings whatever your native land. Souvenirs or keepsakes of passage are welcome, which will then be photographed.
All welcome. Children aged 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required.
Open Mic Speakeasy!
Wednesday 14 October, 6.15 - 7.30pm
A poetry open mic night with special guests including local poet Joyce Edwards, celebrating literature, creativity, poetry and writing in BHM 2009! All welcome. Children aged 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required. Refreshments served. Just put your name down on the night to participate
African Style Mask Making Workshop
Saturday 17 October, 2 - 4pm
Make and take home vibrant and colourful mask, stay and play-colour sheets and word searches. All ages. Children aged 5 years and under must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required.
Cross Currents Days
Monday 19 October, 12pm - 4pm
Be part of a creative project with Lydia Julien who will be making a collage of immigration, emigration and crossings whatever your native land. Souvenirs or keepsakes of passage are welcome, which will then be photographed. All welcome. Children aged 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required.
How to get writing! With Journalist, Writer and Editor Joy Francis
Wednesday 21 October, 6.30 – 7.30pm
Experienced journalist, editor and trainer, Joy Francis will help all budding writers to Generate ideas, identify your target audience, develop your unique selling point, find an agent and most importantly get a commission. For age 16 plus, booking required.
Drawing a Caribbean Style Still Life
Friday 23 October, 10am – 12pm and 6 – 7.30pm
A creative drawing workshop aimed at absolute beginners in drawing a vibrant and tropical still life. Lydia will teach techniques and tips to start drawing in a variety of mediums. A friendly and informal workshop to bring out your creative side! Age 16+. All materials provided, booking required.
Film Night
Saturday 24 October, 5.15 – 7.30pm
The film is to be confirmed closer to the time, so please check with Central Library for updated information, including age suitability. Serving popcorn and red bush tea!
Cross Currents Days
Monday 26 October, 12pm - 4pm
Be part of a creative project with Lydia Julien who will be making a collage of immigration, emigration and crossings whatever your native land. Souvenirs or keepsakes of passage are welcome, which will then be photographed. All welcome. Children aged 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required.
Poetry Workshop with Joyce Edwards
Tuesday 27 October, 6 – 7.30pm
Poet Joyce Edwards will be holding an informal and friendly workshop on getting started in poetry. Based around Joyce’s own work and experiences, this workshop is excellent for dipping your toes into creative waters in a comfortable setting. Age 18+. No booking required but please arrive early!
An Audience with Tameka Empson
Wednesday 28 October, 6.30 – 7.30pm
You know her as Frightening Freda (Hackney Empire 2008 pantomime, Mother Goose), one of the Three Non Blondes (BBC 3), Marcia Brown and Miss Aphrodite, but who is the real Tameka Empson? Actress and comedian Tameka Empson will talk about her origins, inspirations and achievements followed by a Q&A session. All ages. Children aged 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required. Refreshments served.
Stories, Songs and Fun with Barry Shaw
Saturday 31 October, 11am - 12pm
Come along and join in the fun. Age 5 and under. Children must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required
Face Painting for the Under Fives
Saturday 31 October, 2 – 4pm
Choose one of five vibrant African style face masks and have it painted on! Plus stay and play-colour sheets and word searches for all ages. Age 5 and under. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No booking required.
Sizzling Salsa with Gilly Gill
Saturday 31 October, 5.30 -7pm
Celebrate the end of Black History Month in style. Join in this fun salsa session for beginners. Please dress comfortably. Age 16+. No booking required.
Homerton Library
Homerton Library
Homerton High Street
E9 6AS
Tel: 020 8356 1690
Web: Homerton Library
Carnival Celebration
Thursday 1 October, 6 – 8pm
Join Tropical Isles Youth Carnival Troupe and Homerton Library in reliving the carnival atmosphere with their lively performance! All ages welcome. Children aged 5 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. No booking required. Refreshments will be provided.
Make Musical Instruments
Tuesday 6 October, 11am -12pm
Make shakers, drums and other musical instruments and join our ‘orchestra’ in making music! For age 5 and under - children must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required.
The Hidden History of Black Classical Musicians
Thursday 22 October, 6.30 – 8pm
Which African became Beethoven’s best friend? Which Caribbean did Mozart travel miles to copy? Find out how black musicians influenced over 500 years of classical music in a fascinating audio-visual presentation. Age 11+ - no booking required.
Shoreditch Library
Shoreditch Library
80 Hoxton Street
N1 6LP
Tel: 020 8356 4350
Web: Shoreditch Library
Adult Poetry
Wednesday 7 October, 10.30am – 12pm
We will be writing poems about black inventors and black educators. Age 18+. Only 10 spaces available - booking required.
The History of Black Educators with Thandi Haruperi
Monday 12 October, 2 – 3.30 pm
An inspirational speaker, educator, trainer, lecturer, writer, mentor and advocate for self improvement. The session will be about the history of black people in education, alongside personal examples of what Thandi has personally achieved. All ages. Children aged 5 years and under must be accompanied by an adult - no booking required.
Mystery Search
Thursday 22 October, 2 – 3 pm
A mystery search using Library stock, the winner will receive a prize. Age 10 -11. Invited guests only
Black History Month Party
Thursday 29 October, 2 – 4 pm
A party to celebrate the work of black inventors and educators and the end of Black History Month 2009. All ages. Children aged 5 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. No booking required.
Stamford Hill Library
Stamford Hill Library
Portland Avenue
N16 6SB
Tel: 020 8356 1700
Web: Stamford Hill Library
Afro-Caribbean Dancing and Drumming
Thursday 15 October, 2 – 3.30pm
Dancing and drumming session for children.Enjoy the cultural rhythms or even make your own beat!Come along and learn traditional dances orshow us some of yourownmoves.
All ages. Children aged 5 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. No booking required. Traditional refreshments served.
Black Inventors Quiz and Drawing Competition
Wednesday 21 October, 2 - 3pm
There will be a treasure hunt for the answers to the quiz.Find all the treasures and be entered into a draw to win a prize.Be an inventor and create your own special design through art and story-telling! Age group - Quiz: 8+, Drawing competition: 12+. No booking required.
Healthy Eating Fair
Thursday 22 October, 2 - 4pm
Come along and sample food from different parts of the world. Learn about foods whichare good for you. Pave the way for a healthy living lifestyle. Age 18+ – but families are welcome. No booking required.
Black Heroes and Sheroes: 1500s to the year 2000
Thursday 29 October, 6 - 8pm
Talk by Mr Tony Warner from Black History Walks, specialists in walks, talks and films on African History in London. The talk will focus on the scientific innovations of black people.There will also be sign-posting for people wishing to start up their own business or inventions. Age 16+ - no booking required
Stoke Newington Library
Stoke Newington Library
Stoke Newington Church Street
N16 0JS
Tel: 020 8356 5231
Web: Stoke Newington Library
Black History Month Children's Science Quiz
Thursday 1 October – Saturday 31 October
All day during library opening hours. Test your knowledge on black people in science. There will also be a Prize drawon the 31st, where the first two correct entries drawn will win prizes! For children of all ages. To enter the competition, pick up your entry form from the library
Children’s Steelpan workshop with Patrick Augustus author of Babyfather
Monday 26 October, 11am -12.30pm
This will be an informal event where children of all ages can pop in and have a go on the drums. They'll also learn a bit about the history ofthe steeldrum and learn to play a basic tune on the drums. For children of all ages, spaces limited, please book in advance.
Workshop: Black Scientists and Inventors
Saturday 31 October, 11am - 1pm
Tony Warner from Black History Walks and 100 Black men of London presents this fun, interactive multimedia workshopon Black Scientists and Inventors. Come along anddiscover an outline of science inventions in common use, traffic lights, blood transfusion, gas mask, laptops, computer speeds, atomic weapons, refrigeration, fuel, obelisks etc. Age 11+, no booking required
Woodberry Down Community Library
Woodberry Down Community Library
Robin Redmond Centre
440 Seven Sisters Road
N4 2RD
Tel: 020 8356 1791
Web: Woodberry Down Library
BLACK HISTORY MONTH:
Caribbean Food Competition
Thursday 1 October – Saturday 31 October
Think you know your Caribbean food? Enter our competition and test your knowledge. Two age groups: 5 - 8 year olds – Fruits. 9 -14 year olds – Vegetables. The competition will run all day during library opening hours. To enter the competition, pick up your entry form from the library.
Black History – The Forgotten Pioneers of Horseracing
Please note: this event has been cancelled due to ill health
Friday 9 October, 3.30 - 5pm
Education Consultant David Lewis presents both the history of black people in horse racing and the personal achievements of exceptional, influential yet largely unknown characters within the history of sport. All ages. Children aged 5 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. No booking required.
Hackney Museum
Hackney Museum
Technology and Learning Centre
1 Reading Lane
E8 1GQ
Tel: 020 8356 3000
Web: Hackney Museum
Growing Up Black: An Exhibition of photographs by Dennis Morris
Friday 2 October – Saturday 23 January 2010
As an eight year old choir boy at St Marks Church in Dalston, Dennis Morris was inspired to take up photography by the vicar who invited a professional photographer to the church. From that moment he was hooked. The result is a poignant collection of images of the black community in Hackney; at birthday parties, at christenings, at blues dances, at home, on the streets or in church. Features a film by Kwaku Mensah with an interview with Dennis on the streets he grew up in. All ages.
Building Bridges
Thursday 8 October, 6 -7.30pm
The result of three oral history workshops in London for the 'Building Bridges' project. Including interviews and discussions with elders from the host community about their experiences in seeing large groups of Caribbean people arriving in Britain after the Second World War - 1948 to 1962 - known as "The Windrush era”. Age 18+. Booking required - contact Hackney Museum.
Hackney Routes Project - A Charmed Life: An Eddie Noble Film
Thursday 29 October, 5.30 - 7.30pm
What are your routes into Hackney? Come and explore and debate cultural and international routes into Hackney by contributing your stories to this unique project. Seek inspiration from one Hackney resident’s story Eddie Martin Noble (1917-2007). The documentary examines Eddie’s perspectives and values of inspiring young people and gives an historical perspective on the issues around colonisation of the Caribbean. Age 18+. Booking required - contact Hackney Museum.
Journeys of Change: Hackney Museum working with Supplementary School
Tuesday 2 September – Saturday 5 December
This exhibition shows the first-year work of three Hackney supplementary schools show took part in this unique pilot project exploring the topics of leadership, poetry and African literature. The exhibition is accompanied by African dress from the African Women’s Organisation in Hackney. The Journeys of Change project is coordinated by the Imperial War Museum London and funded by DCMS Strategic Commissioning Fund. All ages.
Kemet and the Ancient Nile Valley
Thursday 5 November, 6 - 7.30pm
An insight and full historical exploration of the lives of Kings and Queens of the ancient Nile Valley focusing on the region of Kemet (ancient Egypt) with writer Kandace Chimbiri. Age 18+. Booking required - contact Hackney Museum.
A conversation with Dennis Morris
Thursday 12 November, 6 -7.30pm
This is an unique opportunity to meet the photographer and find out where he seeks inspiration for his work and to explore in more detail the stories behind the photographs in the exhibition Growing Up Black. Age 18+. Booking required - contact Hackney Museum.
Hackney Archives
Hackney Archives
43 De Beauvoir Road
N1 5SQ
Tel: 020 7241 2886
Web: Hackney Archives
'Survival': Black British History and Culture 1945 to the Present - A short course being run by Birkbeck College at Hackney Archives
Saturday 3 October – Saturday 12 December, 2 – 4pm
This module takes a wide-ranging approach to Black British social, cultural and political history from 1945 to the present. Covering everyday experiences, political activism and the role of music in black culture, the module uses documents, visual and sound sources to create a vivid picture of recent black history. Full details, including course fees see the Birkbeck College website.
Exploring London’s Communities Through their Archives
Thursday 15 October, 2 – 4pm
A talk by Maureen Roberts from London Metropolitan Archives (LMA), exploring the contribution of the African-Caribbean and Chinese community to the story of London, through the Eric and Jessica Huntley collections and the Chinque family archive deposits at LMA. Following the talk, there will be a chance for discussion about the collections at Hackney Archives and the archives of Hackney’s communities. Age 18+ Free - booking required.
Photo credit: Dennis Morris - www.dennismorris.com - all rights reserved
Page updated: 15 Jun 2010