Cambridgeshire County Council is marking Black History Month 2025 in Cambridgeshire with a touring exhibition that brings together local artists and historical works from The Museum of Cambridge.
The free exhibition showcases creativity, culture, and community pride, uniting local voices in celebration of this year’s national theme: Standing Firm in Power and Pride.
The exhibition opened at New Shire Hall in Alconbury Weald on 6 October, where it remained until the 10th following an opening ceremony on Monday. It will then move to Huntingdon Library from 13–15 October before concluding at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge on 16 October. Each venue provides a new opportunity for visitors to engage with the stories, heritage, and artistic achievements of Black Britons who have shaped both local and national history.
Among the exhibits are artworks created by County Council employees and local artists, including the Cambridge Black Creatives collective. Visitors can also explore a selection from The Museum of Cambridge’s acclaimed Legacies of Windrush exhibition. Together, these works highlight personal experiences, cultural identity, and the enduring influence of Black heritage across the region.
Black History Month has been celebrated in the UK every October since 1987. That year marked 150 years since the abolition of slavery in the Caribbean, the centenary of Marcus Garvey’s birth, and the 25th anniversary of the Organization of African Unity. The first celebration was initiated by Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, a Ghanaian refugee and activist who worked with the Greater London Council to promote understanding, representation, and the recognition of Black British contributions. His vision continues to inspire events like Black History Month 2025 in Cambridgeshire, encouraging communities to celebrate Black culture and challenge racism through education and creativity.
The Council’s exhibition reflects this enduring purpose: to invite everyone to celebrate, learn about, and acknowledge the richness of Black culture, excellence, and history. It is a call to both reflection and action — to see the past clearly while supporting future generations through representation and pride.
One of the featured artists, Blessing Aina, explained the personal significance of the event:
“Black History Month is deeply meaningful to me because it honours the struggles, resilience, and achievements of Black people, while reminding us of the importance of representation and identity. As a Black woman and a social worker, I see the value of sharing stories that celebrate culture and inspire pride.”
She continued:
“Taking part in this exhibition is my way of contributing to that narrative; to celebrate my heritage, reflect on the progress made, and ensure that future generations see themselves represented and valued.”
Councillor Peter Macdonald, Chair of Cambridgeshire County Council, echoed this sentiment at the exhibition’s opening:
“I am delighted that we are celebrating Black History Month with this exhibition that brings people together to honour Black experiences, history and culture in our county through powerful expressions of creativity.
As a Council of Sanctuary, we are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all people in Cambridgeshire. I’d encourage everyone that can to visit this inspiring exhibition as it tours the county over the next week.”
Through art, storytelling, and shared experience, Black History Month 2025 in Cambridgeshire stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Black community. It invites everyone — residents and visitors alike — to stand firm in power and pride, celebrating the histories that continue to shape a more inclusive future.
