Reclaiming Narratives this Black History Month

Reading's diversity will take centre stage this October as the community comes together to commemorate Black History Month.

A month-long series of events at the University will showcase the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the Black community, culminating in a community fête.

Celebrating Reading's Black Excellence

Celebrating Reading’s Black Excellence (15:00 – 19:30, 23 October) will showcase local Black talent with song, dance and performances; a marketplace highlighting Black-owned businesses and community organisations and charities sharing resources and information about their work in our area. With a fun fête atmosphere, feel free to drop in for as little or as long as you want. See the full community fete programme.

Face to face: Black History Month

Do you have an idea to promote inclusion and diversity at Reading? As part of the Celebrating Reading's Black Excellence, Vice-Chancellor Robert Van de Noort is holding a special VC Surgery. This is your opportunity share your ideas about inclusion and diversity with Robert, who is also the University’s Race Champion on the University Executive Board, and Professor Al Laville, Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor of Diversity and Inclusion.

You might also have feedback on issues that need addressing, or want to shine a spotlight on good work that's happening in your area and could work across our University.

The Surgery takes place at 16:00, Wednesday 23 October, at Park House. You must prebook your appointment - sign up now. 

Reclaiming narratives

The theme for this year’s Black History Month is Reclaiming Narratives, giving us an opportunity to explore and celebrate Black stories, experiences and achievements.

Highlights throughout October include:

• The World Reimagined public art trail: visit the four globe sculptures on campus, each serving as a reminder of the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade (all month).
• Black Experiences: Reclaiming Narratives with No More Table Talk: this free exhibition in the Library foyer exhibition focuses on amplifying Black voices and experiences gathered from BAME staff network members and wider stakeholders (10 - 25 October)
• Racial Inequality in the Job Market: The School of Philosophy, Politics and Economics hosts a friendly discussion with employers and academics about how we deal with racial inequality in the job market (17 October)
• Black British Music Beyond Borders: A chance to think about the transnational flows of Black British musical cultures over the last century, with playlists and discussion (30 October).

You can also take part in sessions and activities for our staff and students.

• Wear red on 18 October to show racism the red card.
• Join the BAME+ Allies network and BAME students for a sip and paint session (2 October). The session is free to attend, but places are limited and priority is given to Black and BAME applicants.
• BAME+ Allies Network members and BAME students are invited to a social and networking event (24 October), celebrating members' successes and achievements. If you're not a member but want to find out more about either group, you are welcome to register for the event. 
• Boost your knowledge and allyship with courses on anti-racism, unconscious bias and being an active bystander all available on UoRLearn.

You can see full details, including how to register and take part, in our Black History Month calendar online now.

No more table talk: save the date

As part of the BAME+ Allies ‘No More Table Talk’ series, members of the BAME Staff Network and wider University community are invited to join a special Town Hall Event on Thursday 21 November.

The event will include provocations by Vice-Chancellor Robert Van De Noort and other members of staff, as well as the opportunity for BAME Network members to voice their views regarding BAME staff and student inclusion at the University.

Timings and location will be confirmed closer to the time. To register your interest in this event, please email bame.network@reading.ac.uk.