What Black History Month Means for Me? And Who Inspires Me?

Introducing our new Co-Director Michelle Bucknor who shares why Black History Month is important to her. You can read more about Michelle here.

I want others, particularly in the church, workplace, and social settings, to recognise, respect, and acknowledge this marking in history – impactful and significant life-changing moments and events that have contributed to our race. Unfortunately, mostly negative and devaluing. In ‘marking the period’ in October and the many and varied events being carried out to raise awareness; It is my hope that it is not done for the sake of it, but it happens because it’s the right thing to do.

All people of every nation are individual and unique in their make-up. Bespoke. One of a kind. Only passing this way once. No one gets a chance to decide what colour they want to be. If we truly believe in God and have accepted that He truly is sovereign, all-knowing, and all-powerful; Lord of all; and in the great commission; why then can’t we accept each other ‘as is’ not that one people group or nationality is superior to the other? Particularly in the Church?

Black History Month being celebrated, chronicles the still-unfolding journey of black people from all walks of life across the globe. Stories told of highs, lows, opportunities, suppression, still being misunderstood and disregarded. Sometimes overcoming and BUT I hold true that God is ALL and in all. We want to be continued to be heard with the goal of being understood.

Using our own black ‘multi-culturedness’ (we come from various countries and cultures) owning who we truly are and keep holding on to what we can become. Having our voice – applying grace and forgiveness in great measure while still being willing to listen to others, even when it’s hard. So, we keep hope alive, even if the journey is publicly only highlighted once a year.

I’m inspired by Michelle & Barack Obama. Ordinary people who achieved an extraordinary (possibly once in my lifetime) journey and its experiences. I particularly like her as a great role model and advocate for girls and women. I love how they seem to live out their marriage against the stereotype of black relationships, with warmth, wit, and down-to-earthiness. Regardless of one’s role, it resonates with me ‘to thine own self be true,’ and their very public role allowed black people to get to know them and their lives. I loved the dynamism, respect, and intimacy of their union as a couple – while staying in their own lanes, both equally supportive of the other in a publicly friendly, loving, and regarding way.