Welcome to Norfolk BHM 2011
A Celebration of Black Excellence in Norfolk
Welcome to this year’s Black History Month programme. Once again it’s packed with exciting events taking place across Norfolk this October. From traditional stories and music for children to film, performance poetry, live music and talks, there really is something for everyone.
Norfolk Black History Month (BHM) Steering Group continues to develop and work tirelessly to ensure that the recognition and celebration of Black History is promoted, supported and encouraged by all representatives of the various sectors and many individuals and groups across Norfolk. This year’s Black History Month is proving to be one of the most engaging, liveliest and welcoming events in Norfolk’s cultural calendar, serving both as an educational project and an entertaining experience for those who know little of, or are just curious about African and Caribbean Heritage and the British connection. Norfolk Black History Month’s unique flavour draws on this wealth of ancient and current connections – which is always explored through the many activities for families, children and people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
Norfolk Black History Month is supported by communities and voluntary groups, statutory agencies such as local authorities, museums, libraries and criminal justice agencies. We would like to extend a special thank you to the support given by County Council, Norfolk Constabulary, Norwich City Council, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, DMC and Open Trade Network, Norfolk Library Services, The Bridge Plus, Norwich & Norfolk Racial Equality Council (NNREC), Creative Arts East and Zimbabwean Community Association Norwich (ZIMCAN).
I would like to extend my thanks to all members of the Norfolk BHM Steering Group – in particular to Tonia Mihill, Lydia Martin, Neil Howard, Francis Nhamo, Pepukai Makoni, Pa Musa, Natalie Jode, Isabel Farrelly, Isabel Horner, Ben Miller, Sophie Cabot and Eden Kidane. I would also like to extend special acknowledgment to Malika Rahman for her support, enthusiasm and dedication in coordinating Norfolk BHM on behalf of the Steering Group and making it a great success over a number of years.
This year the Norfolk Community Cohesion Network, in partnership with Norfolk County Council, has supported a number of community events linked to Norfolk Black History Month 2011 that celebrate ‘Black Excellence’. Community groups were awarded £200 towards an event to celebrate Black excellence in Norfolk.
What is ‘Black excellence?’
Black excellence simply means excellence in culture, arts, science, education, sports or health. It could also mean excellence in the contribution someone has made volunteering their time and skills to their local community. The events have been specially supported because they recognise someone’s achievements – whether past or present day. Each of the events that has received this funding is marked by the Norfolk County Council and Norfolk Ambition logos.
I hope this programme inspires you to go out and enjoy what Norfolk Black History Month 2011 has to offer, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been involved in what promises to be another fantastic October.
Abraham Eshetu, Chair, Norfolk Black History Month Steering Group
