Black History Lewisham 365
Black History Month grants 2025
The theme for Black History Month UK 2025 is “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” a powerful tribute to the resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment to progress that defines the Black community across the globe. This year, the theme highlights the profound contributions made by Black people, be they leaders, activists, or pioneers who have shaped history, while also looking towards a future of continued empowerment, unity, and growth.
While it’s important to acknowledge the national Black History Month campaign each October, in Lewisham, we believe in action 365 days a year. From SEEN Lewisham to Windrush Day, and much more, we are committed to amplifying the diverse voices and stories of the Black community in Lewisham.
This year, grants of up to £1000 will be available for projects in Lewisham. Do you have an idea for an event or activity that celebrates Black history, identity or creativity, or helps people to explore what power and pride means to them? Apply for a grant.
Applications close 11.59pm Sunday 17 August.
Who can apply?
- voluntary and community sector organisations
- schools
- Community Interest Companies (CIC)
Please note: We can fund organisations as well as individuals, however if you are making an application as an individual you must be endorsed by a constituted organisation. This could be a housing association, residents association, voluntary sector organisation, faith organisation, food bank or local school. All we require is you provide the details of your endorsing organisation. We will follow up with this organisation to confirm your relationship and organise payment of funds.
We fund a wide range of events and activities.
Previously funded events
- a street party encouraging people to come together as a community
- a community event such as a meal with a cultural activity
- creative workshops
- intergenerational event bringing older and younger people from the community together
- storytelling event
- exhibition with photographs or oral history contributions Cultural activity – music, arts or crafts
- gardening activity
- podcast, social media event / campaign
If you would like to submit a video application for a grant instead of a written application, please contact cultural.grants@lewisham.gov.uk as soon as possible to find out how.
Applications close 11.59pm Sunday 17 August.
Grant timeline
- programme launch: Friday 11 July
- deadline for applications: 11.59pm on Sunday 17 August
- assessment panel meets: Week commencing Monday 18 August
- successful applicants informed: Monday 1 September
- events take place: Between Wednesday 1 and Friday 31 October
- monitoring forms due: Friday 28 November
What is Black History Lewisham 365?
While it’s important we acknowledge the national Black History Month campaign each October, in Lewisham we believe in action 365 days a year. We were proud to champion Black creators and trailblazers as part of our We Are Lewisham programme.
We are also driving conversations to help us better understand how we can support our Black communities - from tackling healthcare inequalities, to addressing disparities among our high street businesses, to eliminating inequalities in education. And that’s just the start.
Black History Month
Black History Lewisham 365 is our commitment to offering a platform for Black voices and understanding Black lived experiences 365 days per year. This year, we launched the Black History Lewisham 365 (BHL:365) Trailblazer Map. This resource highlights significant Black individuals and locations important to Black culture in the borough, showcasing their contributions to politics, arts, health, and more, and celebrating the impact of the Black community on Lewisham’s history. You will find iconic people and places marked out on the map from Downham to Deptford, Telegraph Hill to Grove Park!
Events were hosted across Lewisham, supported by Council-awarded grants. At Broadway Theatre, GROUNDATION Dancing from the Archive by IRIE! Dance Theatre opened the month, blending dance with historical storytelling. Libraries across the borough offered a diverse range of activities, from quilt clubs to creative writing workshops, celebrating the richness of Black culture.
The community came together at events like the Kinaraa Annual Conference at Fellowship Inn, which shared the untold narratives of Black leaders. Other highlights included Sydenham Arts’ film screening of Cymande and The Little Mermaid adaptation by Lavern Archer, integrating Caribbean music and dance.
Keep and eye on this page for BHL:365 events throughout the year.