Black history explored

The University is hosting a range of events this month to mark Black History Month.

The programme is part of a national celebration of Black history.

An array of lectures, performances, and discussions will take place on campus for students, staff and the wider community.

Black History Month is a great opportunity for our members to both celebrate the successes of Black people and those from minority ethnic groups, and recognise the challenges still to overcome.

Thought-provoking performance

Internationally renowned ballet dancer Vincent Hantam will perform alongside dancers Anu Ogunmefun and Jed Perez from the Classically British showcase run by Portobello Dance in London.

Vincent was the first non-white male dancer employed by Scottish Ballet in 1975.

The event will include an introductory dialogue between Vincent and Wendy Timmons (programme Director MSc Dance Science and Education) about his journey from a child in Cape Town to Moray House School of Education as first dance artist-in-residence.

Lecture questioning history

Internationally acclaimed journalist, poet and broadcaster Musa Okwonga will deliver a lecture as part of the programme.

During his lecture - Beware the Black Sainthood - Musa will discuss the way history is told and how it changes over time. He will look at the implications for civil rights movements.

Insightful debate

Edinburgh will also hold The Great Debate as part of Black History Month.

Part of a national tour, the debate brings together panellists from the worlds of entertainment and politics. Together with students, the issues of Black and Minority Ethnic groups’ political disengagement and representation will be discussed.

Other topics covered during the event will include political participation, employment inequalities, media representation and international affairs.

Film screening

The hard-hitting documentary Kashmi’s Torture Trail will also be shown as part of the month-long series of events.

The film sheds light on the plight and struggle of the Kashmiri people living under occupation in India.

The film is presented by Kashmir Solidarity Movement Edinburgh. A panel discussion will follow the screening, with opportunities for the audience to share their thoughts on the situation.