Black History Month
October is Black History Month
The first-ever Black History Month celebrations in the UK began in 1987 and 34 years on, it has transformed into a period that looks to celebrate the accomplishments of our past and present black heroes to bring awareness of Black history, culture and heritage. During Black History Month the stories and accomplishments of individuals are told and given prominence to showcase their impact on wider society. Where people have been excluded, it is right that we highlight them so their valuable contributions to that evolution are not forgotten.
Women's Pioneer shares in wanting to bring to light the experiences that black women in particular face in the housing sector. Studies have highlighted that black women are less likely to own a home and where black and minoritised womens intersecting pressures of poverty, homelessness and gender violence face barriers in accessing safe and appropriate accommodation, this results and in their being more likely to live in unstable accommodation as a result of structural barriers. The creation of a black housing sector in the late 1970's and early 1980's was regarded by some as the most bold, ambitious and successful equalities and empowerment programme in Europe at the time. There is also rising concern about the lack of research on the homelessness of black women.
There is so much work to do but we want to applaud the women who are continually making positive contributions to the housing sector:
- Violet Pugh, Winner of the housing Heroes Awards 2021, Women of the Year (Leadership)
A leading advocate in diversifying the housing sector by supporting career developments of women, in particular those of colour.
Black History Month launched with a series of events, check out these events running in October:
Free Online Events
- Closure of the Black History Month in DWP - 29th October
- Black Women as educators and social activities - 30th October
Paid Events