Loughborough University marks Black History Month

Illustration of a woman holding a megaphone with the words 'Black History Month, 1-31 October 2025' coming out of the megaphone.

The University is celebrating Black History Month throughout October with a range of events and initiatives under the 2025 theme, ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’. This year's theme honours resilience, legacy and ongoing contributions of the Black community.

We are pleased to launch the Black History Month 2025 event programme. Staff and students can find more information about Black History Month on our micro-site. The site features resources to support staff and students with understanding and embedding anti-racism on campus and you can also explore our achievements and progress towards this goal through the Race Equity Timeline. 

The month's events begin with the ‘AFRO HAIR: IS a BIG Conversation’ exhibition in Martin Hall, running from 2 October to 5 November. Curated by Dr Kerri Akiwowo, Senior Lecturer in Textiles, in collaboration with LU Arts, the exhibition explores Black identities and embodied experiences throughout history. It tells these stories through afro hair narratives and artifacts from Black and mixed heritage communities. 

On 15 October, the University Book Club will celebrate Black History Month by delving into ‘Dream Count’ by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Engage in discovering the intersecting lives of four Nigerian women as they navigate themes of love, identity and resilience during the pandemic. 

Library staff have curated a physical display of books and resources at Pilkington Library, available throughout October. Explore more digital resources on the Race Equity Reading List and the Race Equity Subject Guide. 

On 23 October, join us for the Leadership to Legacy Forum, featuring influential Black leaders hosted by Black Excellence UK in collaboration with Loughborough Business School. This empowering event is designed for attendees to gain valuable insights into practical leadership strategies and to connect with like-minded professionals. 

We close the month with the launch of 'No Place Like Heimat' by Kedisha Coakley on 28 October. This permanent stained glass artwork installation, addressing themes of race and inequality, will be celebrated with a special event to honour its significance to our campus.   

Keep checking the Black History Month micro-site as it will be updated throughout the month.