Bristol Black History Month

Today we celebrate the life and legacy of Ras Bandele Selassie on his birthday. A respected elder, spiritual leader and guiding force in Bristol’s community, he created spaces of belonging, wisdom and unity that continue to inspire so many. His memory lives on through the people he touched and the values he stood for. Happy Heavenly Earthday, Ras Bandele.

Read more https://bristolblackhistorymonth.co.uk/proclaiming-unity-the-spiritual-leadership-and-lasting-legacy-of-ras-bandele-selassie/

Central Bristol Greens St Pauls Learning Centre Ujima Radio 98fm Bristol Beacon Sibusiso Tshabalala

Who tells the story of our communities?

Nearly 200 years ago, Black journalists asked the same question.

On 16 March 1827, the first Black-owned newspaper, Freedom’s Journal, was published in New York. In its opening editorial, the editors wrote words that still resonate today:

“We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us.”

It was more than a newspaper.
It was a powerful declaration that Black communities would tell their own stories, record their own history and shape their own narrative.

That spirit travelled across the Atlantic.

In Britain, pioneers like Dusé Mohamed Ali, who founded The African Times and Orient Review in 1912, and Claudia Jones, founder of the West Indian Gazette in 1958, used journalism to challenge discrimination, connect communities and celebrate Black life.

Today, that tradition continues here in Bristol.

The Bristol Black History Month Magazine carries forward this legacy by documenting the people, culture and leadership shaping our city and region. These stories matter because they create a living archive for future generations.

As we approach Black History Month 2026, themed “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” the next edition will continue celebrating Bristol’s community voices and creative talent.

Pre-orders for the 2026 archive edition are now open.

By supporting the magazine, you help commission local writers, photographers and creatives, ensuring that region's stories continue to be told and preserved.

https://bristolblackhistorymonth.co.uk/product/2026-magazine-pre-order/

Because the message from 1827 still speaks to us today:

“We wish to plead our own cause.”

On Friday 20th March, we gather for Nine Nights a Caribbean tradition rooted in West African spirituality and carried across generations.

Nine Nights is a sacred vigil honouring the journey of a loved one’s spirit. It weaves together hymns, storytelling, food and music in collective remembrance and celebration. The ninth night marks a powerful moment of release, reflection and a joyful send-off.

Wear rose or green as symbols of life, renewal and shared love, and join in celebrating the life of Ras Judah.

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Ras Judah.

Ras Judah born Judah Adunbi was more than a campaigner or community elder. He was a pillar of Bristol’s conscience. From his involvement in the 1980 St Pauls uprising to his decades of service as an independent race relations advisor to the police, he carried both the pain and the pride of our city with unwavering dignity.

The 2017 tasering incident shocked many of us, not just because of the violence itself, but because of what it symbolised. Even in the face of that trauma and the repeated misidentification that followed, Ras Judah chose courage over bitterness. Through the Justice 4 Judah campaign and his continued advocacy, he reminded us that accountability is not about anger, but about fairness, truth, and human dignity.

The documentary I Am Judah ensured that his story and the wider conversation about institutional racism and civil liberties would not be forgotten. But those who knew him will remember something even deeper: his warmth, his wisdom, his humour, and his commitment to community.

From founding the St Pauls Sports Academy to mentoring generations across Bristol, Ras Judah embodied service. He stood firm so others could stand taller.

May we honour his legacy not only in words, but in action by continuing the work of justice, equality, and collective care that he devoted his life to.

Rest in power, Ras Judah. Bristol will not forget you.

The Windrush Front Room by Tony Fairweather now in Bristol.

1st - 4th October The Shakespeare

This year’s Black History Month theme is "Reclaiming Narratives," focusing on recognising and correcting the stories of Black history and culture. Let’s be mindful of what this month is not and strive to ensure WE CURATE NARRATIVE..

Designs by Natalie Evans.

October is hashtag here in the UK and in Bristol. Let’s be mindful of what this month is not...

It’s all happening this weekend Bristol Beacon thanks to Julian Davis and Mitchell. Amazing recognition to the The Windrush generation.

See the full programme https://bristolbeacon.org/whats-on/windrush-to-bristol/

Bristol Black Mag.net Ujima Radio 98fm Central Bristol Greens

Much awaited..

**FREE FILM SCREENING** Booking essential via link below.
M-SHED SAT 22ND JUNE 2-4.30PM. DISCUSSION - RIGHT TO PROTEST. Panel - Ras Judah, Dr Lawrence Hoo, Cleo Lake, Dr Clare Torrible & Bashart Malik
https://www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/events/i-am-judah/
FILM SCREENING - SPOKEN WORD - PHOTO EXHIBITION
Ras D Judah Lawrence Hoo Cleo Alberta Lake Mark Simmons Photography Peter Courtier Bashart Malik M Shed Ujima Radio 98fm BBC Bristol The Bristol Cable BCfm Radio Rockaway Park