Black History Month has been celebrated in the UK since 1987. It provides a dedicated opportunity to recognise the contribution of Black people to Britain’s history, culture and society, while also ensuring that stories and achievements which have not always received sufficient attention are explored and understood. It is not about limiting Black history to one month; rather, October provides a particular focus for learning, reflection and celebration that should form part of our understanding of British history throughout the year. Black History Month 2026.

At Blue Coat, Mrs Heery has been presenting assemblies to students across all year groups, introducing this year’s theme and encouraging pupils to think about the individuals and communities whose contributions deserve recognition. Our Sixth Form students are also taking an active role and are organising a Show Racism the Red Card event on Friday 16 October, giving students another opportunity to discuss racism, challenge discrimination and consider the role each of us can play in building an inclusive community.

Liverpool is an especially appropriate place in which to explore Black history, with a long established Black community and a rich cultural heritage. There are many opportunities for families to become involved this October. BlackFest 2026 is bringing together Black artists, writers and performers across the city, with events including visual arts workshops at Granby Winter Garden and community, arts and cultural events at the Palm House. On 6 October, author and poet Dean Atta will appear at The Black-E, while BlackFest events continue throughout the month. Culture Liverpool.

Families can get involved in many other ways too: visit Liverpool's museums and galleries and explore the city's Black history; read work by Black British writers; discover the stories of local Black musicians, artists, campaigners and community leaders; attend a performance or workshop; or simply use the month as an opportunity for conversations at home about history, identity, equality and belonging. Liverpool's programme demonstrates that Black history is not only something to study in the past – it continues to be created through the people, culture and communities around us today.