Hannah (SU President) and Muscab (Black and Global Majority Student Community Officer) let you know how we'll be celebrating the significant events, activism, and achievements of Black people who have shaped our society.
Hannah Hockin and Muscab Salad
President, Black and Global Majority Student Community Officer
In the UK, Black History Month is celebrated in October. It provides an opportunity to recognise the contributions and achievements of Black students here at Royal Holloway and to raise awareness about the history and culture of the Black community in the UK.
Black History Month spans the entire month and serves as a dedicated time to acknowledge the significant events, activism, and achievements of Black people who have shaped our society, both historically and today. Everyone, regardless of their race or ethnicity, can shine a spotlight on and celebrate Black achievements that will empower and inspire future generations.
As a student community, it is crucial that we broaden our understanding and appreciation of this history, allowing us to take pride in and celebrate Black excellence. Educating ourselves about Black history reinforces that it is an integral part of our collective history and has shaped how the UK stands today.
Rather than limiting it to a single month, it should be an ongoing celebration and recognition, seamlessly integrated into our educational curriculum and daily lives.
‘Saluting Our Sisters’
This year, the national theme of Black History Month is "Saluting Our Sisters", which focuses on paying homage to Black women and honouring their achievements, many of whom have been forgotten heroines.
Over at the Students’ Union, we're recognising the profound impact of Black women in shaping history, igniting change, and building communities.
How are we celebrating?
In collaboration with Muscab, our Black and Global Majority Students Community Officer, and our African-Caribbean Society, we're celebrating the past achievements and ongoing contributions of Black students, and the potential they hold for the future.
Our events programme and awareness campaign will encompass various activities, ranging from an exhibition at the library showcasing the work of Black students to a Zine Making Workshop led by sweet-thang zine. Additionally, we are thrilled to present a Black History Month Open Mic Night.
We also have Afro-Heat over at Medicine and Flawless Black History Month ft. Ms Banks returning to the SU Venue.
Show me the events
Get Involved
We have an incredible campus community here at Royal Holloway and we want to shout about it! Over the course of Black History Month, we'll be showcasing the work of Black students and we want you to get involved! Whether you run a business, write poetry, create pieces of art, love social media, or would be up for telling us about your story - get in touch! Drop us an email to be featured on our website and the SU Instagram account, we can't wait to hear from you and amplify your voice.
Stand up for students
Do you want to play a lead role within the Students’ Union and help improve life on campus for students? Are you passionate about creating the most welcoming and inclusive environment to nurture student life and lead campaigns that create long-lasting change? If so, we think you would be the perfect candidate to run for a Sabbatical Officer position in the Leadership Elections 2024! Keep an eye out for more information coming soon!
If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at voice@su.rhul.ac.uk.