Black History Month
This month we have been celebrating Black History Month at Riddlesdown Collegiate in a new and unprecedented way.
Afrobeats and Reggae music is being enjoyed by everyone at lunchtime in The Common Room. During Monday Reading, our Tutors read a very moving extract from the double Olivier Awarded play ‘For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy’ by Ryan Calais Cameron. Wednesday Quiz was based around historical black figures. There is a slide show running in the common room showcasing black historical figures, athletes, musicians, scientists, authors, photographers, the list goes on. Later in the month, we will be able to sample Afro-Carribean food. We held assemblies for all students, to highlight what Black History Month means.
The aim of this month is to redefine what it means to be Black to all students, through a bold celebration of Black history, culture and excellence; thus, creating a greater appreciation amongst the entire Riddlesdown community for Black culture and History. Although there are some controversies regarding Black History Month, notably the way it has been neglected in school curriculums, as several sayings argue, there’s often and opportunity for good, even in unfortunate circumstances. In this case it’s that Black History can be taken from something mundane and tedious, like it could become if schools integrate it with their curriculum, to something celebrated and cherished. This is exactly what’s happening in Riddlesdown Collegiate, an inspiring celebration of Black History!
Adriel O – Year 13