Wolverhampton City Archives' new Black History Month display traces almost 80 years of African-Caribbean history in Wolverhampton.
From the first Windrush arrivals and the creation of community organisations to local musicians, artists, educators, campaigners and entrepreneurs, the display showcases people and initiatives which have helped shape the city over the last eight decades. Featuring everything from the Afro-Caribbean Cultural Centre and the Steve Biko Pan African School to Reggae bands, community publications, oral histories, the ‘Witnessing Gaps, Telling Stories’ zine project and the Windrush Memorial unveiled earlier this year, it highlights how people have created opportunities, challenged inequality, celebrated their culture and ensured their stories are passed on to future generations.
Councillor Jeszemma Howl, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Governance and Digital, said: "Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the people, experiences and contributions that have helped make Wolverhampton the diverse and vibrant city it is today.
"This display shines a light on nearly 80 years of local history, celebrating individuals and organisations who have made a lasting difference to Wolverhampton. This isn’t just Black history, this is also Wolverhampton’s history – a shared story of resilience, achievement, culture and community that has shaped the city we are proud to call home."
The display is available to view throughout October during normal Wolverhampton City Archives opening times, with free entry. Elsewhere, Central Library has a collection of Black History Month books in stock, and people are invited to view the bronze bust of Professor Mel Chevannes, a pioneering figure whose contribution has helped shape public life, education and healthcare in Wolverhampton, which is on permanent display at the Civic Centre.
Free copies of Mel’s autobiography are available to collect from the Civic Centre, while stocks last.
