Black History Month events and activities

Join the University community this October for a programme of events, conversations and activities celebrating Black histories, experiences and cultures.

Everyone is welcome, whether you'd like to learn something new, hear different perspectives or connect with others.

Coming up

Picture shows people sat in a cinema room. 40 Years of Handsworth Songs: Film Screening and Q&A Panel
22nd October 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Mockingbird Cinema, The Custard Factory, Birmingham B9 4AA
A screening and panel discussion marking the 40th anniversary of the multi-awarding winning documentary feature film Handsworth Songs.
Three students chatting outdoors Guild of Students: Africanize Poetry Workshop
23rd October 6pm - 8:30pm
On campus
Join Artist‑in‑Residence Sipho Eric Ndlovu for an immersive poetry workshop that brings the University’s African collection to life, whether you’re a seasoned writer or trying poetry for the first time. Book your free ticket now!
Picture of Sipho Eric Ndlovu, a performance artist who uses poetry, dance and community facilitation to encourage accessibly of arts. Guild of Students: Poetry Workshop
23rd October 6pm - 8:30pm
Teaching and Learning Building, Room TBC
An introduction to Africanize, a University of Birmingham project led by Artist-In-Residence Sipho Eric Ndlovu. This will be an introductory, engaging and accessible poetry workshop inspired by live artifacts and artworks from the University's Afri
Picture of the University of Birmingham's clock tower. Black Heritage campus walking tour
28th October 1pm - 3pm
On campus
Join the Black Heritage Walks Network for a guided walking tour exploring the often-overlooked Black histories connected to the University of Birmingham campus.
Image of a female student holding a loaf of bread. Bread & Belief for Black History Month: Reclaiming Religious Stories for Liberation - how does God-Talk shape us?
28th October 2pm - 4pm
Oasis Lounge - Multifaith Chaplaincy, St. Francis Hall
Join Mindy and the Student EDI Team to make bread and share stories during Black History Month. Leave this event enriched by community, conversation and with the loaf of bread you made.
Picture of Mermaid Fountain in the Guild of Students. Guild of Students: Open Mic Night
30th October 5:30pm - 7pm
Beorma Bar, Guild of Students
As Halloween approaches, we invite you to gather for Khuluma, a special open mic inspired by storytelling, ancestry and remembrance. "Khuluma", meaning 'speak' in Zulu, calls us to share the stories we hold close.
Student playing board games at University accomodation. Home at UoB: A student-led approach to inclusive living for Black students
12th November 2pm - 3pm
Online
Discover how the University of Birmingham's 'Home at UoB' initiative creates an inclusive, supportive environment for Black students in accommodation.
Poster with the image of João Cândido Felisberto, the admiral who led the Revolt of the Lash in Brazil in 1910. Film Screening: João Cândido - A Hero Without a Mask
18th November 2pm - 4pm
Carroll Room (G15), Muirhead Tower
Join us for a screening of João Cândido: A Hero Without a Mask, with researcher and screenwriter Professor Álvaro Pereira do Nascimento joining for a live Q&A, organised by the University of Birmingham Brazil Institute.