University hosts series of thought-provoking events for Black History Month

For more information or to watch recorded talks check out: www.wlv.ac.uk/blackhistorymonth

The University of Wolverhampton’s Faculty of Arts, Business and Social Sciences has planned a day of thought-provoking virtual events to celebrate Black History Month.

On Thursday 22^nd October, a series of free virtual talks will be held covering a number of topics including the Windrush scandal; exploring bi-heritage roots and what it means to be Black (and White) in the UK; what challenges face women of colour; and preserving black history and its relevance today.

All the events are free to attend with tickets available through Eventbrite links in the story headlines.

Remembering Paulette Wilson – 12.00 midday until 1.00 pm

Paulette Wilson was a Wolverhampton based British immigrant rights activist who lived in Heath Town for over 50 years and recently fought her own deportation to Jamaica, bringing media attention to the human rights violations of the Windrush scandal. Two students who knew Paulette will talk about their experience of working with people who have been impacted by the Windrush Scandal and give personal accounts of Paulette as a friend. The talk will be facilitated by Gavin Rogers, Fine Art Lecturer.

Black History and Identity – 3.00 pm until 4.00 pm - Graduate, Chris Day

As part of Black History Month the University of Wolverhampton presents a talk with Dr Max Stewart and glass and ceramic artist and graduate, Chris Day who talks about his work and personal journey as a bi-heritage (Jamaica/UK) artist who uses his craft to navigate what it means to be Black in the UK. And also White.

Challenges Facing Women of Colour – 4.30 pm until 5.30 pm - Marcia Lewinson

From Volunteer to CEO, Marcia Lewinson discusses the challenges facing women of colour and shares her personal story. As part of Black History Month, the University of Wolverhampton presents a talk charting the journey of Marcia Lewinson who joined Women Acting in Today’s Society in 1993. With an aim to change the life of three women a year, she has supported countless women to escape Domestic Abuse, Honour Based Violence and Forced Marriage. This talk will include a Q&A on the issues facing women and girls in today’s society.

We Want Our Bodies Back – 6.00 pm until 7.00 pm – Jessica Care Moore

The University of Wolverhampton presents a virtual live performance from poet, playwright and producer Jessica Care Moore from her poetry collection We Want Our Bodies Back. The event will include a talk and Q&A with the artist.

Preserving Black History and its Relevance Today – 7.30 pm until 8.30 pm

An online discussion about the Windrush Generation Experiences Online display currently on show at the Wolverhampton Art Gallery until 20th December 2020. Twenty years ago, 107 people who came from the Caribbean and South Asia to live in Wolverhampton recorded their experiences in over 80 hours of video and audio interviews. The recordings give an insight into where the settlers came from, their beliefs and backgrounds, where they lived, the work they did and the difficulties they faced.

ENDS