Black History Month 2024 by Mengru Xie, Teacher of Chinese
We reflected on the power of storytelling, the importance of inclusivity, and the ongoing work of changemaking
B lack History Month 2024 at Dulwich College was not only a month of celebration; this year it became a journey
In Art, Year 10 students recreated pieces in- spired by influential black artists, while Year 12 students produced documentaries on emerging black changemakers,
of reflection, learning, and collective growth. Led by Ms Xie and the Diversity and Inclusion prefects (Casey Ng, Calum Skinner, and Isaac McConnell) the month
Black History Month was more than a series of events this year – it was a transformative experience
screened in November. Drama students engaged with themes of injustice through performance- sand theatre trips. Our school societies also took
part enthusias-tically, hosting sessions on topics including the legacy of the Central Park Five, the poetry of Derek Walcott, and multiculturalism in Roman society. The libraries joined in with themed displays and a lively pop-up library event in Christison Hall. Beyond the campus, students visited the Black Cultural Archives in Brixton and attended the Black Book Festival at Goldsmiths, strengthening their connection to the African and Caribbean diaspora’s rich heritage. Looking back, Black History Month was more than a series of events this year — it was a transformative experience. We reflected on the power of storytelling, the importance of inclusivity, and the ongoing work of changemaking. Thanks to the passion and involvement of both staff and students, this year’s programme became a meaningful celebration of heritage, identity, and the collective steps we can all take toward a more inclusive future. ◎
offered the entire community a chance to engage deeply with stories of excellence, resilience, and creativity. The programme aimed to go beyond marking a date on the calendar; it focused on reclaiming narratives, honouring overlooked heroes, and sparking meaningful conversations on inclusion and representation. Among the many highlights, the prefects produced a special video featuring students and teachers sharing stories about personal changemakers, reminding us all that inspiration often begins with individual voices. Thought-provoking guest speakers including Floyd Steadman OBE, Guvna B, and Jeffrey Boakye (pictured) delivered powerful talks that challenged and uplifted us. In music, students explored the roots of genres shaped by black musicians, and the MOBO Music Trail during break time welcomed both staff and students to trace the rich musical journey from African drumming to modern rap and grime.
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