Black History Month at Elim- Action Not Words

1 October 2022, marks the first day of Black History Month, which has run throughout October in the UK since 1987.

Black History Month celebrates the achievements and contributions of Black people - not just in the UK, but throughout the world, and to educate all on black history. It's an opportunity for people to learn more about the effects of racism and how to challenge negative stereotypes. It has grown to be one of the most prominent cultural celebrations of the year.

This theme for Black History Month 2022 is ‘Time for Change: Action Not Words.’

Social housing organisations such as Elim rooted in diverse and vibrant communities, have an important role to play- one that goes beyond simple words of support. The team at Elim similarly recognises that Black history goes far beyond the month. Over the last year we have launched a new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, and a working group, formed of colleagues and Board Member to monitor our progress against the aims of this strategy.

Elim recognises that we have a responsibility as a modern employer to value the diversity of our workforce and that we work towards having a diverse team of colleagues, something we are proud to be committed to.

We also want our customers to feel that their experiences are understood and reflected in our approach to service delivery, and that a career with Elim is open to all. We will achieve this through the recruitment and development of a diverse team of colleagues that reflects the perspectives and experiences of the communities we serve, and a work environment that enables everyone who works for Elim to contribute and develop.

We must be willing to show that we are committed to being inclusive, fair and anti-racist not just because it is the right thing to do but because it also allows us to give a better service to our customers through our housing, employment opportunities and training opportunities.

Get Involved!

In Bristol and North Somerset:
Sculpture trail across Bristol exploring the history and legacy of Enslaved Africans through the work of incredible artists. 

John Akomfrah – Mimesis: African Soldier Exhibition. Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, 1 October to 31 January 2023. Uncovers the undiscussed story of the Commonwealth soldiers who volunteered to fight in World War I.

Learn more about Black history in this city, with stories compiled by the Bristol Museums Black History Steering Group. 

For details of more events in Bristol to mark Black History Month, visit the Black History Month website.

For events taking place North Somerset, BHM North Somerset has a full schedule to choose from. 

In Wales:
Race Council Cymru’s free family day including market, African and Caribbean food and crafts.

Supporting Career development, Diverse Communities free event.

Black History Wales Youth Music Festival Stage in Festival of Voice 2022.

In North Somerset:

Find resources and events for North Somerset here.

Visit the Black History Month Art Exhibition taking place all month at The Other Place in WSM. 

From the Windrush to the Whitehouse – An Evening with Roger Griffith, MBE (free event)

In Gloucester and South Gloucestershire:
Join Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell at the University of Gloucestershire for a Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Business Networking Event. 

The Performance Showcase for Black History Month will be taking place on Saturday 8th October at The Bean Tree Café in South Gloucestershire. Tickets available here.