Celebrating Black History Month 2019

October is Black History Month in the UK and at The Higgins Bedford we're celebrating and commemorating the history, culture and achievements of black people with a series of events, talks, discussions and workshops. 

On Sunday 13th October, there will be a panel discussion exploring mixed race identity in Bedford. Michelle Balach-Ali will present the fascinating results of her recent study that showed mixed race people are competent ‘cultural negotiators’, equipped with the resilience to withstand various forms of racial abuse. Michelle will be joined by panel members Pauline Stepney, Warren Temple and Angela Lowell as they ask the audience to consider their own position regarding mixed race identity in Bedford. This panel discussion  starts at 2:30pm - 4pm, is free to attend and must be booked in advance. 

To book your place, please use our online booking system or visit Bedford Central Box Office at 27 Harpur Street, Bedford or telephone 01234 718044.

We'll be celebrating the music that has inspired Bedford’s African and Caribbean community on Saturday 26th October. Take part in musical workshops and browse stalls. Enjoy topical talks exploring the history of different musical styles and music's impact on identity and wellbeing. This will run from 11am - 4pm and is free entry but prices will vary for workshops.

Working in partnership with Power in Discussion.

Keep an eye on the developing programme of events on our website.

Just after Black History Month there will be a talk by Lucy Bland, Professor of Social and Cultural History at Anglia Ruskin University, on Saturday 9th November exploring the history of wartime children born to black GIs and British women. Many suffered racism as well as the stigma of illegitimacy. Now in their 70s, many have told their stories which have been captured in Lucy’s recently published book and will be shared in this talk. Starting at 2:30pm- 3:30pm, this talk costs £5.90, £4.70 for concessions and booking is essential. 

To book your place, please use our online booking system or visit Bedford Central Box Office at 27 Harpur Street, Bedford or telephone 01234 718044.