"The Queen of Soul", Artha Franklin pic Bo Mackison

As part of the Black History Month festivities this year, councils across East London are organizing events in celebration of the heritage, culture and tradition of the Black African and Caribbean communities and what they have achieved.There is something for everyone including sessions featuring guest speakers, music and creative writing workshops, exhibitions and film screenings.

One of Hackney’s highlights this year is an exhibition titled Our African Roots, held at Hackney Museum from October till January. The exhibition aims to outline how Hackney’s Africans have continuously celebrated their cultural background within the borough, preserving the identities of both the youthful and elderly members of the community.

Joy Francis, Executive Director, Words of Colour Productions said: “Hackney’s Black History Month never fails to surprise and delight. The original and topical events attract children, adults and families from all backgrounds. The focus on the African continent and its widespread influence in the arts and culture is exciting.”

Another event not to be missed is The Pomedy Show held at Broadway Theatre on October 14 from 8-10pm. Organized by Lewisham Council, this is a great opportunity to see Jamaican entertainer Yasus Afari present his renowned blend of poetry and comedy.

Families are welcome to events made especially for children, such as storytelling event Caribbean Tales to be held in Croydon on October 28 from 2:30-3:30pm.

Other family events include creative workshops for children at the Idea Store Bow in Tower Hamlets. The workshops will explore aboriginal art and the role it plays in storytelling on October 25 and 27 from 2-4pm. There will also be a day of craft activities and traditional Caribbean food as part of family fun day at Idea Store Chrisp Street on October 29.

The events organized across East London aim to provide a variety of ways to celebrate the cultural achievements in black history and remember the people, places and event that have made an impact on the community.

Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Lutfur Rahman said: “Black History Month is now an important part of the annual calendar as it provides a fantastic platform to highlight the contributions made by the black and ethnic minority community to British life and explores and celebrates black history, experience and culture.

“Tower Hamlets is proud of its cultural heritage and its history as a home to generations of immigrants.”

For more information on ongoing events, please visit Hackney, Tower Hamlets, Croydon and Lewisham Councils’ official websites.