Faith Matters: Black History Month celebrated in Luton
by David Jonathan, Grassroots & Luton Council of Faiths
In November 1965, Britain made history. For the first time, Parliament passed a modest law with a monumental message: racism was not just a social ill, but a public wrong. The 1965 Race Relations Act began Britain’s long, unfinished fight against racism— a struggle still continuing after 80 years.
It is therefore important that in Luton Black History Month (BHM) celebrates Black culture and heritage, and the achievements of young Black creatives and entrepreneurs.
The annual "Being Black in Luton" event in collaboration between The Organisers, Heritage Associates, and The Culture Trust Luton, facilitated open and meaningful conversations amplifying Black voices, their experiences, identity and resilience.
It featured discussions and sharing of the Black community’s and the Windrush Generation’s experiences in Luton. A young activist Miriam Daniel of ‘Love Music Hate Racism’ spoke about music as a form of resistance. She also talked of avoiding ‘imposter syndrome’, stop comparing yourself to others, and be gentle to yourself, especially when life is hard.
Despite a personal loss, 22-year-old Blaise Powell triumphed and now leads the ‘Original Culture Festival’ in Bedford attended by thousands. He said, “My message to everyone is to find light and joy in everything. To stay determined and to not let your struggles hold you back from achieving your goals and dreams. Whether that be grief, discrimination, a lack of self-belief, or even old age. You have a reason for being here, and you can turn your pain into purpose.”
The award-winning film maker & director Niyadre’s documentary film ‘Beyond The Rush’, exploring the rise & decline of Caribbean culture in Luton, won Best Breakthrough Film at the Bute Street Film Festival. The film has been screened at several notable events, including the BFI London Film Festival and the Houses of Parliament. Speaking of hard-work, he said there’s no shortcut to success.
A rising local entrepreneur Kerresha Allen shared how she conquered her life-struggles, and challenges. A prolific visionary, leader, activist, artist, author and motivational speaker Sharon de Leonardis encouraged all to find our potential and become a powerful tool for leadership, change, and empowerment. From touring her transformative play Rise of the Empress, to authoring You Are More Than History Told You, Sharon is redefining activism and education through creativity and cultural reclamation.