Islington is marking Black History Month (BHM) with an exciting programme of events for the community starting at 6pm on Friday, September 28 at Islington Town Hall.<br><br>Thirteen activities will take place during the next month around the theme of freedom. 2007 marks the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade.<br><br>Friday's event will opened by Cllr Ruth Polling, Executive Member for Leisure and Equalities. <br><br>Guest speakers Vusi Mchunu, Alex Pascall, OBE, and Wangui Wa Goro will be talking around this year's theme of freedom, the legacy of slavery and black community's present day contribution to society.<br><br>Music will be provided by gospel singers Adelaide MacKenzie and Jonas Singers and St Mary's Islington Youth Centre, while playwright and actor Reginald Ofodile will perform a must-see 'duologue'.<br><br>Major BHM events during the five-week programme include a community-wide Freedom Festival to be held at Highbury Fields, a discussion of contemporary black success stories called Portraits of Success and opera and dance extravaganza Treemonisha, to be performed at Sadlers Wells. <br><br>Cllr Ruth Polling, Executive Member for Leisure and Equalities, said: "Islington's Black History Month celebrates the borough's diversity and is a chance to learn from one another's cultures as well as helping bring us together as a stronger community.<br><br>"We have a great programme of events lined up throughout September and October covering everything from discussions, storytelling, music and dance and politics and history. I'd encourage everyone to come along to the events."<br><br>All events are free and everyone is welcome to attend. Copies of the BHM programme with listings are available in the reception area of council offices and libraries. Alternatively, log onto www.islington.gov.uk<br><br>For more details, ring Steve Watkins on 020 7527 8751.<br><br>End<br><br><br><br><br><br>
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009