October is Black History Month – an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contributions and achievements of Black people throughout history and in the present day, both in Britain and across the world. It’s an opportunity for education, reflection, and inspiration.
The theme for Black History Month 2026 is ‘Honouring Our Communities’ and is about recognising individuals whose contributions are part of everyday life, yet too often go unseen.
Across Britain, Black people are contributing through education, healthcare, faith, business, sport, culture, heritage, public service, environmental action, youth work, volunteering and grassroots community leadership. They are teachers and healthcare professionals. Artists and entrepreneurs. Veterans and faith leaders. Mentors, campaigners, historians, volunteers and community organisers. Some have influenced national conversations. Others have transformed individual lives, neighbourhoods and local communities.
Knowsley Council is committed to promoting inclusivity and equality across the borough and is supporting Black History Month with events and activities for staff and the wider community.
Wear Red Day
The Council will be supporting Show Racism the Red Card’s annual Wear Red Day on Friday 16 October.
The Greystone footbridge will be lit red in support of the day and Council staff will be invited to wear red to work. People are welcome to further support the initiative with an online donation to the charity.
Enterprise event
The Council encourages and facilitates Black entrepreneurship in Knowsley and is again supporting the Council’s United In Diversity Network as it partners with the LCR Race Equality Hub and Invest Knowsley Business Growth Team to host a Black Entrepreneurship event.
Hosted by renowned BBC journalist Ngunan Adamu and reflecting the 2026 theme, Honouring Our Communities, this dynamic event will bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs and community champions for an afternoon of thought-provoking discussion, entertainment and networking.
The event takes place on Tuesday 13 October at the Partnership for Learning Centre in Halewood and will feature local Black entrepreneur guest speakers, performances and a marketplace showcasing local Black enterprises on. Further details including how to book to attend this free event are available here.
Explore Black history with Knowsley libraries
Throughout October, Knowsley Library Service will have themed displays in branch highlighting Black History Month. Titles range from those telling the story of significant people in Black history to brilliant Black writers of fiction and children’s stories.
The Borrowbox online library, which includes e-books, e-audiobooks and e-magazines also features special Black History Month collections as well as Diversity and Business collections.
During October, the Council will also highlight the range of opportunities for employees to learn more about equality, diversity and inclusion through its comprehensive learning and development offer.
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council, said:
“Black History Month provides an important opportunity to celebrate the achievements, contributions and experiences of Black people, both throughout history and in our communities today.
This year’s theme, Honouring Our Communities, shines a light on the individuals whose dedication, leadership and everyday contributions help strengthen our neighbourhoods, support others and enrich community life. From entrepreneurs and educators to volunteers, campaigners and community champions, their impact deserves recognition and celebration.
In Knowsley, we are proud to support Black History Month through a programme of events and activities that encourage learning, reflection and meaningful conversation. While October gives us a valuable opportunity to focus on these stories and achievements, our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion continues throughout the year as we work to ensure Knowsley is a welcoming borough where everyone is valued, respected and able to thrive.”
The Greystone footbridge will be lit in yellow on 1 October and 31 October to mark the start and end of Black History Month.
Find out more about Black History Month here: Black History Month 2026