This year’s Black History Month (BHM) theme, “Reclaiming Narratives,” is part of a powerful and inspiring movement to restore, reclaim, and celebrate the diversity of Black histories, cultures, and identities.
As part of our contribution, Queen’s Park Community Council is working in partnership with the New Black Film Collective to produce a series of films and panel events challenging monolithic, stereotypical, simplified misrepresentations and re-centring and celebrating the multifaceted and dynamic realities of Black histories, lives, and identities.
Through this series of events, we aim to honour heroes by spotlighting trailblazers whose stories are only now being told; empower and educate through stories that take pride in our heritages and histories to inspire our futures; and reclaim our narratives by interrogating the stories that have been told of us and telling our own stories revealing the rich mosaics of our lived experiences.
We’re screening:
- The Woman King & Panel: This epic film takes you back to the 1800s, following the all-female warriors of Dahomey. Led by the fearless General Nanisca (played by Viola Davis), their story is about bravery, resilience, and the fight to protect their people. The film will be followed by a panel of speakers exploring the film’s themes. [Watch the trailer]
🗓️ 5th October, 🕓 4:00-6:30pm, 📍Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue. Register to watch Woman King
- Black Joy: This witty and heartfelt 1977 classic portrays the adventures of a young Guyanese immigrant trying to find his place in Brixton’s vibrant, sometimes chaotic, community. [Watch the trailer]
🗓️ 10th October, 🕓 4:00-6:30pm, 📍Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue. Register to watch Black Joy
- Babylon & Storytelling Reception: Set in the gritty streets of 1980s London, Babylon takes a hard-hitting look at the challenges a Black musician faces navigating racism and societal tension. The film will be followed by an evening reception of live storytelling, performances and refreshment, a separate registration is required. [Watch the trailer]
🗓️ 26th October, 🕓 4:00-6:30pm, 📍Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue. Register to watch Babylon
- The Story of Lovers Rock & Panel: This nostalgic documentary takes us back to the late 1970s and early 1980s, highlighting the rise of “romantic reggae” in the UK. Lovers Rock became a unifying force within the Black community during racial and social upheaval. The film will be followed by a panel of speakers exploring the film’s themes. [Watch the trailer]
🗓️ 7th November, 🕓 6:30-9:00pm, 📍Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue. Register to watch the Story of Lovers Rock
More from Westminster
Westminster is home to many pioneering Black individuals and events that have paved the way for future generations. You can explore this legacy through a fascinating map created by Westminster Archives & Libraries that shares many of these critical stories.
Let’s celebrate Black history, reclaim our narratives, and look toward a future shaped by pride and empowerment!