‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’ Black History Month 2025

Every October is Black History Month, where people celebrate and understand black history, and black culture. This year’s theme is “Standing firm in power and pride” paying tribute to the resilience, strength and commitment that defines the black community. It’s not only about remembering but acting as well.

Black History Month originally started in the United States as Black History Week in February 1926, since 1976, every president of the Unites States has recognised February as Black History Month.

The first Black History Month in the United Kingdom took place in 1987 on the 150th anniversary of when slavery in the Caribbean was stopped, this was started in the UK to challenge racism and celebrate the history of black people.

This year’s Black History Month will celebrate contributions made by black leaders, activists and pioneers who have shaped history.

Generate used to run a Youth Race & Racism Project, a group of young people with learning disabilities who wanted to find out more about race, racism and how it impacted them. Topics that were covered included George Floyd, Racism in the UK and around the world, racial profiling and the debates around taking down statues and removing their history. 

Young People’s Race and Racism Project | Generate 

Generate members have also reviewed easy read material for The George Padmore Institute including information on the life of John La Rose and a timeline of black history. 

George Padmore Institute – Launch of the George Padmore Collection Easy Read Series 

At our most recent Generate Voices meeting, Leon, wanted to make a speech for this year’s Black History Month about his hero, Martin Luther King Jr:

Some of our members are inspired by quotes by celebrities from the black community whether it be actors, musicians or politicians from history including former basketball player Michael Jordan and civil rights activist Rosa Parks who is remembered for refusing to give up her seat during segregation laws: 

“I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times, I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” Michael Jordan

“I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear” Rosa Parks

Generate’s community have power and pride in everything they do and will continue to live the life that they choose!