7 Small Ways To Educate Yourself This Week

What to read, play, and watch this Black History Month.

1. Watch In The Shadow Of Mary Seacole.

ITV Studios / Via itvstudios.com

This is definitely one to watch. David Harewood goes on a personal journey across Britain, Jamaica and Crimea to tell the story of the statue of Mary Seacole – the first ever public statue of a black woman in Britain. Catch the first episode on ITV.

2. Read this piece on the experiences of black men in Britain.

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This very open, honest piece looks at experiences of eight black men born and raised in the UK. The men talk about growing up black, the police, mental health, sexuality, and love.

3. Check out this Cocktails and Conversation event.

Black Ballad

If you are in the London area, then you should head over to the Black Ballad cocktails and conversation event. The event celebrates the talents of black British women. The speakers include Olympic champion Christine Ohuruogu and Florence Adepoju, owner of MDMFlow.

4. Head over to the Creative Café.

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The Creative Cafe in Manchester is hosting an afternoon of poetry and readings from a library of LGBT and feminist literature. This is a great way to find out about sidelined narratives in black history and literature.You can get more information after the free event here.

5. Listen to some Jazz.

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Take some time out and listen to Ken "Snakehips" Johnson. Snakehips was a jazz band leader and dancer. He was a leading figure in black British music of the 1930s.

And if jazz is not your thing, check out this playlist on Spotify.

6. Check out this article that celebrates all things black girl magic.

Michael Hinson / BuzzFeed

This article gives you a low down on black girls that are doing amazing things. It's so glorious to read.

7. Watch movies fronted by black screen talent.

BFI London Film Festival

Black Star launched by BFI celebrates the achievements of black stars from the earliest years of cinema through to the present day. Through the months of October till December you can watch classic black films on the big screen. Check out the screenings here.