Dear Friends,
Memory and history are the true cornerstones of our social existence. They are the mortar that holds us together. Yet, in times of uncertainty and insecurity, we often see those bonds fray, leading to fragmentation and division within our communities. We must recognise that those in power frequently exploit these very divisions and this feeling of disenfranchisement to advance their own political ambitions.
It is precisely in such challenging contexts that we must turn our attention and genuinely listen to the voices and experiences of people and communities who have been silenced, marginalised, or effectively written out of our popular imagination.
Black History Month offers us a vital opportunity to do just this to carefully consider the profound importance of our common belonging even in the midst of social fracture. It is an essential occasion to recover, relearn, and celebrate the incredible contributions that have shaped our social, political, philosophical, and theological thought.
As the great James Baldwin keenly observed, “Ignorance, allied with power, is the most ferocious enemy justice can have.” It is this very ignorance that fuels social misunderstanding and division.
As we pursue justice and equity in our shared spaces, Black History Month serves as a powerful reminder: we need each other. Our community will only truly be strengthened when we make a sincere, concerted effort to know more about one another.
Therefore, let us use this month not just for reflection, but for sincere action. Let us commit to learning about the people from the margins and edges of our history who have been forgotten or shunned. By doing so, we can collectively weave a richer, more inclusive narrative, and finally be able to dream of a better, more just world for us all.
The Diocese of London has scheduled a variety of activities and events surrounding Black History Month (BHM). We strongly encourage your participation in these and also hope you will consider organising additional events that are locally relevant to your own community.
With Hope and Commitment,
Bishop Anderson Jeremiah
Lead Bishop for Racial Justice Priority
Removing the eraser
Wednesday 8 October 7-9.15pm
St Barnabas Kensington
An evening of reflection and dialogue, exploring how stories, contributions, and identities have been overlooked or erased, and asking what it means to “remove the eraser” in contemporary Britain across different fields of life.
Book your place
Racial Justice Pilgrimage
Friday 24 October 10am-4pm
Led by Bishop Lusa and Bishop Anderson with historian Robin Whitburn. Ten historic sites from Westminster to Ladbroke Grove.
Removing the eraser globally
Wednesday 29 October 12-1pm
Online
A panel discussion on how we can reimagine belonging and celebrate the fullness of Black histories around the world today.
Information and booking
Skip To Sub Navigation