London,
23
September
2010
|
23:00
Europe/London

Black History Month celebrations go Tropical in Hackney

Carnival dance troupe, Tropical Isles opened Hackney Council’s Black History Month 2010 at a special event last night (Thursday 23 September).

Almost 300 people were at Hackney Museum to celebrate the Council’s eighth annual celebration of achievements by Black African and Caribbean communities. The event also formally opened Reggae Rebels, a fascinating exhibition exploring the roots of Reggae, illustrated with photographs by Dennis Morris and featuring artefacts from the 4 Aces Club and Joe Cyrus Mighty Emperor s original soundsystem. Guest speakers included Milton Dillon, who gave a brief history of Reggae, Dennis Morris, Winstan Whitter and Mike Vance, followed by music from Dennis Bovell.

Hackney Council Cabinet Member for Community Services, Jonathan McShane said: “This year, for Black History Month there are lots of free events across the borough and they are open to everyone. Come along, get involved and celebrate the diversity of our borough and find out more about how Black culture has shaped and still shaping our borough.”

This year, Hackney Council is focusing on creative art and media showcasing some of the community s modern day talents, as well as taking a look at contributions made in the past.

Events are free and taking place at Hackney Museum and all of Hackney s libraries until December 2010. There is something for everyone including sessions featuring guest speakers, music workshops, seminars, creative writing sessions and film screenings.

This year’s guide to Hackney s Black History Month is available from libraries, Hackney Museum, and some leisure centres. To check out events and exhibitions please visit: www.hackney.gov.uk/black-history-month

Ends