Exploring Black History Month together

Every child deserves hope – so find out why BHM is so important for creating a positive fostering environment.

What is Black History Month?

FROM OUR MANAGING DIRECTOR

“There is still a shortage of foster parents across the UK. That is no secret, and Black, Asian & Minority Ethnic (BAME) foster parents are also in short supply.”

This means that a BAME child or young person is often found in the care of a family very different to the upbringing or culture that they might be used to. However, with the right support and education, we can look to better support their needs.

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Recognising the achievements of Black people throughout history…

Black History Month (BHM) is an annual celebration, which began in the 1980s with the aim of stopping discrimination and encouraging racial equality.

The month-long event looks to champion the achievements and contributions Black people have made throughout history. This year it’s taking place in the UK between 1st to the 31st of October, with events and initiatives taking place up and down the country.

Each year there is a specific theme, and this year it is ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’. It’s a powerful tribute to the resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment to progress that defines the Black community across the globe. (Source: Black History Month).

Black History Month and fostering

As a fostering agency we have a dedicated and persistent focus on ensuring that Black children and young people in care, not only feel included, but also do not experience a different type of care, because of the colour of their skin.

Simply striving to build a culture of inclusivity, however, is not enough. We need to work at it all the time, and it’s crucial that those from Black backgrounds always feel seen and their heritage acknowledged. That’s why Black History Month is so important within our community.

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How Black History Month helps us

For Anchor, Black History Month (BHM) plays a key part in realising our mission of giving every child and young person hope.

Not only does BHM foster inclusivity and representation, but it is also an opportunity for all foster parents to educate themselves about Black history and in turn help Black children and young people to build a strong sense of self.

Standing Firm in Power and Pride’: Celebrating this year’s theme

This year’s Black History Month theme is ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’ which is a tribute to the strength and unwavering commitment of the Black community across the world.

For those involved in fostering children, this theme is especially poignant; because fostering is also not always easy – things take hard work, a lot of effort and resilience.

So, if everyone can better understand this and embrace the theme of ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’, foster parents and children alike can not only play an active role in acknowledging the heritage of Black history but also take huge strength from all that it teaches us.

Education is key. But empathy, understanding and strength is also the narrative we want to take from our celebration of Black history and culture. One which leads with kindness, one that challenges stereotypes, and ultimately fosters an environment where every child is given the hope that they deserve.

Celebrating with Anchor this October

Our October support groups are a great place to recognise Black History month and at this month’s get-together, we’ll be exploring the rich cultural heritage of Black people through food.

So why not come along and taste the flavours of Africa and the Caribbean?

During each one of our sessions, we’ll be celebrating the resilience, brilliance and cultural contributions that have shaped our world. It’s our hope that the food we share, will in turn, help us also share a story of history, heritage and creativity.

So please do come along and get involved! Take a look here to find out the date of our next support group, at a location near you.

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