Black History Month is a time when people from all different types of backgrounds celebrate the many achievements of black people within the community. Over the years, Black History Month has expanded to include the history of African, Asian and Caribbean people and their contribution to Britain’s history.

This blog post won’t cover the history in any detail – I’m no historian and I wouldn’t do it any justice! Instead, I have linked to some great Black History Month resources to read and watch. I’ll also explain what Black History Month means to society, to me, and to gwafuvegan.

1. Black and British: A Forgotten History – 4 part series

This is a great TV show to watch on BBC iPlayer– explaining this history of being black in Britain and the struggle people went through to get to where it is today.

“Historian David Olusoga explores the enduring relationship between Britain and people whose origins lie in Africa.” – BBC

2. Black History Month Resource Pack 2023

The Black History Month resource pack features posters depicting black women who have made extraordinary contributions in different fields. They’re well worth looking through on the BHM website, where you can also purchase the downloads to print.

3. Less than half of black Britons feel proud to be British – The Guardian

If you want to read up on the state of black Britishness, I’d recommend this article by the Guardian. It’s based on a survey over 11,000 black Britons, which has been made into a 104-page report for the House of Commons.

“Campaigners say findings are a wake-up call and highlight ‘chronic level of racial disparities’ in UK” - Aamna Mohdin

What does Black History Month mean within society?

Black History Month is an opportunity to look back and think about all the struggles of the past generations for freedom. It’s a chance to learn from them and aim for the future to be inclusive and celebrate everyone in the community.

What does Black History Month mean for gwafuvegan?

Black History Month gives us a chance to highlight and celebrate all the achievements within the black community. It allows allies within the industry to continue their support by educating their employees and giving a voice and platform to their black employees in particular.

gwafuvegan has worked with many companies past and present to highlight the importance of diversity within the food industry. Not to mention showcasing West African cuisine to company brunches, lunches and corporate events.

It’s also important with the platform that gwafuvegan has to support other black businesses in Manchester and beyond. We’re always open to collaborate with other people within the community as well as buying directly from black businesses.

What does Black History Month mean for Ngwafu?

Black History Month means gratification to me, for everything I have today and every single person within my community that has made my journey in life that much easier for me. It also means love and happiness – with friends, family, and allies.

Above all else, it’s about sharing stories with one another and learning from other people’s experiences – either being grateful or learning how change can happen.

What can you do to continue to support communities that celebrate Black History Month?

· Buy from black-owned businesses

· Like, share and follow or subscribe to black-owned businesses – every little helps

· Work and collaborate with black businesses – this encourages diversity within the community. It also opens up more opportunities and helps their business grow.

· Spread the word. Although it’s an old form of marketing in this day and age, word of mouth is still one of the most effective, as people trust others close to them and will often go with what is suggested by them.

· It’s not just about one month. Do all of the above, ALL YEAR ROUND.

Only just coming across gwafuvegan?

gwafuvegan specialises in cooking and delivering affordable vegan West African food. We ensure to only use high-quality, sustainable produce that is locally sourced. Our number one aim is to spread our passion and love for vegan and West African food – showcasing new and exciting flavours to our ever-growing diverse community.

Here’s what we’re currently up to:

● Popping up at food markets in and around Manchester. All our up-and-coming market dates are below.

● Selling puff puff boxes online (sweet doughnut-like balls) with UK wide delivery.

● Providing vegan catering in Manchester and the surrounding areas for all kinds of events.

Black History Month – Resources, Meaning & What to Do