Black History Month 2025
News
Bath Spa University celebrates Standing Firm in Power and Pride for Black History Month
Friday, 31 October, 2025During October, Bath Spa University was proud to join together in celebration, reflection, and learning for Black History Month, with several events highlighting this year’s theme of ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride.’
Black History Month recognises the contributions of Black individuals and communities across all areas of life. The theme honours their strength and resilience, bringing forward the collective courage of Black communities, celebrating Black excellence and showcasing cultural identity.
Black History Month events were open to all staff and students, with everyone encouraged to take part, through listening, learning, and standing in solidarity.
Ayesha Chawdhry Manek, Equalities Project Officer at BSU, said:
“It is important that we continue to celebrate Black History Month not just in October, but throughout the year — creating an environment that encourages learning and discussion, fosters community, and champions authentic stories and voices.”
The month kicked off with an online session with Naomi Evans, who along with her sister Natalie is co-founder of Everyday Racism, an award-winning Instagram platform which serves as the largest anti-racism platform in the UK.
During the hour-long session, Naomi talked about her activism and platform, as well as how to be an effective ally and understand the modern experiences of Black people.
BSU’s Michael Tippett Centre was host to a performance of Perception Gap by The Decolonial Salon, followed by a post-show Q and A session.
Created and performed by Sierra Leonean performing artist Patrice Naiambana in collaboration with actress and theatre director Kathryn Hunter, Perception Gap explores the psychological pressures faced by a refugee-outsider. The piece was accompanied by European classical paintings featuring immigrants.
Staff and students were also invited to explore the diverse voices and stories of power and pride represented in the Library collection throughout Black History Month.
Visitors could peruse the Library’s special Race, Racism and Protest Reading List or browse the curated displays in the foyer to learn more, reflect and engage with Black history and culture.
BSU staff also got involved and presented their own events. Course Leader for Health and Social Care Management at BSU London (Hackney) and novelist Nadia Maddy joined staff and students for ‘Culture as Superpower’ – a creative session exploring how heritage and culture shape the way we tell stories, often in ways we don't even realise.
Reflecting on the session, Nadia said:
“What stood out most was the vulnerability and discovery in the room. People realised they’d been carrying culture in their writing all along, but hadn’t named it. That awareness is powerful — it deepens creativity. For me, that’s what Black History Month at BSU is about: turning recognition into creative strength.”
Associate Professor of International Law and Artificial Intelligence, Dr Emmanuel Nartey presented 'Beyond Resistance: The Power of Legacy, Innovation, and Future Vision in Black History' – an online lecture celebrating brilliance, resilience, and the power of vision.
Drawing on the lives of both historic and contemporary trailblazers, from Mary Seacole and Nelson Mandela to Dr Gladys West and Amanda Gorman, Dr Nartey’s lecture highlighted how Black excellence continues to shape leadership, science, culture, and the arts as well as showing how past and present achievements light the path towards future possibilities.
Events weren’t limited to BSU’s Bath campuses. Staff and students at BSU London (Hackney) were invited to take part in an Afro-Caribbean fabric workshop. Participants designed their own tote bags using vibrant African and Caribbean fabrics, exploring bold patterns, rich colours and cultural styles.
Natalie Da Silva, Student Success Officer at BSU London (Hackney) said:
“The workshop was a great success. It not only celebrated creativity and cultural expression but also showed how engaging, collaborative activities can help build meaningful connections across diverse backgrounds.”
Later in the week, one could experience the rich flavours of Africa and the Caribbean during the BHM Food Festival. From savoury classics to sweet treats, the festival was a celebration of culture through food.
Talking about the food festival, Natalie continued:
“The atmosphere was warm and engaging, with students socialising and enjoying a relaxed lunch break while learning more about the cultural significance of the cuisine. Beyond the great food, the event encouraged a sense of belonging and inclusivity, giving students an opportunity to connect with one another and contribute to the wider community.”
To round out the month, on 29 October BSU’s Organisational Partnerships team joined with Fairfield House to unveil a photo of HIM Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, commemorating his visit to Newton Park in 1954 and his time as a refugee in Bath.
Karen Teague, Organisational Partnerships Manager, said:
"There was a real sense of community as members of Fairfield House, staff and students came together to celebrate Black History Month. The afternoon unfolded with poetry, memories of the Emperor and testimonies of the Black experience. It was a truly uplifting event that celebrated the University's partnership with Fairfield House and deepened our shared commitment to inclusion and allyship."
Summing up the month’s events, Ayesha Chawdhry Manek added:
“I would like to say a huge thank you to the planning team, who come together and work so hard to put together events, and share a part of themselves with us each time. And equally, thank you to everyone who attends, engages, and brings a keenness for learning and understanding. Your participation is what makes these events so impactful.”