Manchester libraries will host a festival of events to honour our city’s pioneering Black women.
Panel discussions, keynote talks, artistic workshops, and the North West's first Black Indie Comic Festival are coming to Manchester’s libraries this Black History Month.
Black History Month is celebrated every year in October in the UK and this year’s theme, ‘Saluting our Sisters’, is dedicated to honouring the achievements of Black women.
Throughout October, free workshops will give participants the chance to research and retell the stories of inspirational black women through comics. Adults and children age 8+ can get involved in these creative writing and drawing sessions in local libraries.
-
Brooklands Library – Tuesday 3 October
-
Gorton Library – Thursday 5 October
-
Abraham Moss – Friday 6 October
Saturday 21 October will see the North West's first Black Indie Comic Festival come to Central Library. Renowned comic book writers and illustrators will assemble for a day of interactive workshops, motivational talks, mentoring sessions, and comic book signings.
Special guests include Corey Brotherson – co-writer of the world’s first Windrush comic and video game: Windrush Tales – and New York film producer, Jamal Blair.
The festival will spotlight empowering stories that embrace diversity and acknowledge Black history. Comic fans of all ages can drop into this free event or book onto specific workshops via Eventbrite.
On Monday 2 October, a Bridgerton-themed painting workshop and panel discussion – attended by Kiesha Thompson, Artistic Director of the Contact Theatre, and Cllr Erinma Bell MBE, peace campaigner and Deputy Lieutenant for Greater Manchester – will take place in Central Library.
Panel discussions will cover colour blind casting and Black experience within theatre, TV, and film. Guests are invited to wear period costume and must be over 18. Tickets cost £5.
For more information and full event listings, please visit: Ubuntu Festival of Events in Celebration of Black History Month – manclibraries blog
Councillor John Hacking, Executive Member for Skills Employment, and Leisure said:
"In Manchester, we're proud of our diverse communities. We're excited to welcome established and emerging Black British authors and creatives to our local libraries as part of a family-friendly festival of workshops, talks, and events. Residents of all ages are invited to explore our city’s rich heritage this Black History Month."
Councillor Joanna Midgley, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council said:
"Manchester City Council is proud to play its part in celebrating Black History Month. Our city has been home to so many Black pioneers and this year’s theme gives us the chance to spotlight the inspiring women who have shaped our city.
It’s a chance to celebrate our diverse communities and ensure Black history and culture are represented all year round."