What Black History Month means to me.

Black History Month is officially here! Whilst it is so important, we also have to acknowledge the injustice in being “given” just one month.

Too often, Black History Month is criticised for being superficial or tokenistic. By boxing Black history into 31 days, it risks being treated as a temporary campaign, rather than the ongoing commitment to education, equity and justice that it truly demands. Conversations fade once the month is over, when in reality, Black history is British history … woven into the fabric of this country for centuries. From Black Romans, to Black Victorians, to the legacies of colonialism, the Windrush generation and beyond, Black people have always played a central role in building this nation.

And yet, in schools, we’re often still presented with a narrow, one-dimensional view: a small section on slavery, a handful of figures, and little more. We all know about Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Barack Obama … phenomenal figures who deserve their place in history. But beyond them, there is a whole world of Black designers, authors, leaders, inventors, and trailblazers whose names we don’t hear enough. These are stories and legacies we should all know, because knowledge is power. And when diversity is reflected in our schools, workplaces, and even our homes, that knowledge empowers everyone. There is a phrase I once heard ” If you can’t see it… you cant be it” and that has always stuck with me when I am planning talks, workshops and events, because representation is so important.

A single month of recognition cannot possibly do justice to the richness of these stories. Diversity days and culture days can feel similarly hollow when they’re not integrated into the wider curriculum or celebrated in everyday life.

But despite these issues, Black History Month is important. If this is the space we’re given, then let’s use it to its fullest… to elevate Black voices, spark meaningful conversations, and shine a spotlight on the incredible creativity, businesses, and communities that thrive 365 days a year.

This month, I’ll be platforming Black-owned businesses, both local and international, and hosting a series of events here in Ipswich. From workshops and talks to a vibrant pop-up shop, we’ll celebrate culture, creativity and community together.

Uwu Studio

Lily is an illustrator working from her studio in Ipswich, having graduated with a first class honours in illustration.

Events with Uwu Studio

• Meet the Artist: Lily Hammond of Uwu Studio
  Fri 16th Jan 2026

Expect plants, art, homeware, candles, clothing and more! Alongside events like “Prosecco, Plants & Painting” and “Textile Patterns & Identity”. Plus, thought-provoking talks exploring diversity in the arts, the power of colour, and teaching Black history through creativity.

As a woman of colour from a rural town, and the only Black person in my school, these conversations are deeply personal. They are about representation, equity, and change. And they are not confined to one month of the year. My workshops, talks, and celebrations of women and the global majority happen all year round. But this month, you’re in for something extra special.

Black History Month is a chance to celebrate, to learn, and to grow. I hope you’ll join us,  and take away something meaningful that lasts far beyond October.

Who wrote this about Ipswich?

Lily Hammond

Lily is an illustrator working from her studio in Ipswich, Suffolk. Having graduated with a first class honours in illustration. Her practice spans the creative sector from working on a commission for Black History Month for the BBC to artwork created for Ipswich Town’s programme for Call Me Ted.