Celebrate Lewisham’s Black History in October and beyond with music, art, food, fashion and more.

A varied programme will offer something for everyone. Highlights include a walking tour hosted by ‘Black London’ author Jody Burton; there will be live, original theatre courtesy of Orisun Productions and internationally renowned fashion designer Mary Martin is taking over the windows of the Broadway Theatre to display her latest collections. Libraries across the borough are also hosting a range of activities.

We are launching Black History Lewisham 365 by asking the question “What are you proud to be?” and inviting residents to explore this theme through a series of interactive challenges that encompass art, music, writing, cookery and film.

For the art challenge, we are joining forces with Be Seen Be Heard youth forum to give young residents the chance to get creative and have their masterpieces displayed in a public exhibition.

Our music challenge, delivered in partnership with Beatslab, will inspire young people aged 10 and above to unleash their musical talents by making beats, rapping or writing songs. While primary and secondary aged school children will be invited to enter our writing challenge for a chance to win books for their school library.

We are encouraging residents of all ages to get involved with our cookery challenge and share their signature dishes, whether they have been passed down through the generations or are new creations.

Last but not least, our multigenerational film challenge encourages all Black residents to share their lived experiences by uploading a short video clip explaining what makes them proud.

Stay tuned as we will be sharing the results of these activities in the coming months. In addition further themes for Black History Lewisham 365, will be announced and delivered over the next year as part of the London Borough of Culture 2022 programme.

Cllr Brenda Dacres, Deputy Mayor of Lewisham, said:

“Black History Lewisham 365 is about celebrating what it means to be Black and our contributions to art, culture, science, music, sports and more, all year round. So we would love as many people as possible to get involved in our Proud To Be challenges and share the pride they have in their culture and heritage.

“It is also a great opportunity for people of all backgrounds to learn about and experience the impact of Black culture on our society. We’re absolutely delighted that some events are able to return to in-person. I’d encourage everyone to try to make it along to at least one event or get involved online.”

Cllr Andre Bourne, Cabinet Member for Culture, said:

“Lewisham is one of the most ethnically diverse boroughs in the country. That’s what makes it such a vibrant place to live in, work in and visit. We think that’s worth celebrating all year round and not just in October. With Black History Lewisham 365 we are paying tribute to the rich history of our Black communities.

“But we think it’s important to look forward as well as back, from our school children to our older residents, to help support what it means to be part of Lewisham’s Black community. The challenges we’ve set reflect that and we’d encourage people to get involved. This is about looking at what new legacies we can create and lead on, to inspire our future generations.”

Annalise Morley, Beatslab Founder and Facilitator, said:

“When young people first come to us, they can be quiet and closed off. Our music sessions are an opportunity for them to express themselves, whether through song writing, beat making, recording, sound engineering or performing on the mic.

“It’s incredible to see how much they grow in confidence over the course of our sessions. Music is such an important part of Black identity so we’re really excited to be offering our workshops as part of Lewisham Council’s Black history programme.”

Find more details of Black History Lewisham 365 challenges and events.