Black History Month: Celebrating and recognising those shaping society
This year's theme is 'Honouring Our Communities', and events are taking place up and down the UK across October
Last updated 1st Oct 2026
As October arrives, Black History Month UK kicks off with this year's theme, "Honouring Our Communities."
It encourages the recognition of the everyday contributions that shape, support, and sustain Black communities across the UK, and offers a focused chance to explore and share the integral role of Black history in Britain's national narrative.
And speaking to Hits Radio Pride, one of the figures behind the huge UK Black Pride festival in London is exploring the impact of Black History Month on the queer community.
'We shouldn't be tackling the issue of racism in 2026'
The deputy director of UK Black Pride - the world's largest celebration for LGBTQ+ people of African, Asian, Caribbean, Latin American and Middle Eastern descent - has been explaining why the month is so important.
And this all comes as they recently announced the return of Blacktober Fest, bringing Black LGBTQIA+ communities together for an unforgettable celebration of music, culture, creativity, joy, dancing, performance, wellbeing and community.
Aisha Shaibu-Lenoir revealed how punctuating the year with Black History Month in October is still vitally needed.
She said: "Even before what we saw with the media attention over Jason Arday earlier in the summer, we've seen a rise in racism, because of the rising rhetoric, that we've always had, but somehow now feels more intense, and more amplified.
"This is due to a changing of our politics, and platforms given to those who allow hate to thrive, or where queer hate is manifesting.
"BHM is all about amplifying the community, but also gives us the space to come together, heal together, and feel valued.
"For me, it's no longer about other people's recognition - it's about what we are feeling, and things that we want to do during this time to give us a little bit of hope.
"And I feel this is necessary.
"It's time for us to take a breather, and see the world a little bit differently.
"It's also an opportunity for learning, support, and gives everyone the chance to understand and learn a little more.
"Because in 2026, racism shouldn't be the thing that we're having to talk about - but it is systemic, and I think the more we talk about it, that's when all of us can start breaking down and changing the system.
"This is something we're always talking about, and we'll carry on doing, along with many other incredible organisations.
"And so Black History Month is a reminder to support, amplify, and donate.
"When you have a community which is struggling, or has been attacked, it's a good opportunity to be mindful.
"We've been seeing this really sad trajectory against the Black community, trans community, queer community, asylum seekers, immigrants, refugees, women, and trans women...
"And without tackling what's going on, that when the narrative that wants to divide us begins to manifest, when what we all should be doing is coming together and supporting each other."
Understanding the contributions of volunteers, teachers, and community leaders
Black History Month UK emphasises that Black history is continually part of the nation's social, cultural, and civic development.
Those behind BHM say this year’s theme asks us to think about the invaluable contributions of individuals who may often go unnoticed, such as volunteers, teachers, nurses, carers, and community leaders.
From historical figures to modern-day leaders, Black History Month serves as a platform for visibility, education, and recognition, ensuring this history is documented and understood with integrity.
In 2026, alongside the theme, the "Honouring Black Britain 2026" initiative recognises Black individuals whose leadership and professional excellence have significantly impacted British society, particularly at the community level.
A programme of events are taking place throughout October to mark Black History Month, many of which are accessible on the BHM Facebook page.
It all comes as the month is crucial in helping to understand Britain’s past, present, and future - and you can find plenty of recourses on their website.