Cambridgeshire County Council is marking Black History Month 2025 with a touring art exhibition that celebrates Black British culture, creativity, and heritage through the work of local artists and the Museum of Cambridge.
The free exhibition—tied to this year’s national theme, “Standing Firm in Power and Pride”—encourages residents to reflect on the contributions of Black individuals who have helped shape British history and society.
Following its opening ceremony at New Shire Hall in Alconbury Weald on 6 October, the showcase ran there until 10 October. It will now move to Huntingdon Library from 13 to 15 October, before concluding at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge on 16 October.
The display includes artworks from Cambridgeshire County Council employees and local creators such as the Cambridge Black Creatives, alongside selected pieces from the Museum of Cambridge’s acclaimed Legacies of Windrush exhibition. Together, they celebrate resilience, identity, and cultural pride through powerful visual storytelling.
Black History Month has been celebrated in the UK since 1987—150 years after the abolition of slavery in the Caribbean. It was founded by Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, a Ghanaian refugee who sought to challenge racism and recognise the achievements of Black people across history.
Local artist and social worker Blessing Aina, whose work features in the exhibition, said:
“Black History Month is deeply meaningful to me because it honours the struggles, resilience, and achievements of Black people, while reminding us of the importance of representation and identity. As a Black woman and a social worker, I see the value of sharing stories that celebrate culture and inspire pride.”
She added:
“Taking part in this exhibition is my way of contributing to that narrative; to celebrate my heritage, reflect on the progress made, and ensure that future generations see themselves represented and valued.”
Cllr Peter Macdonald, Chair of Cambridgeshire County Council, attended the opening event and praised the exhibition’s role in fostering inclusion:
“I am delighted that we are celebrating Black History Month with this exhibition that brings people together to honour Black experiences, history and culture in our county through powerful expressions of creativity.
As a Council of Sanctuary, we are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all people in Cambridgeshire. I’d encourage everyone that can to visit this inspiring exhibition as it tours the county over the next week.”
Residents can learn more about Black History Month and its origins via the official website at www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk.