Standing Firm in Power and Pride: Black History Month 2025
1 October marks the beginning of Black History Month, one of the most prominent cultural celebrations of the year honouring the contributions made to society by people of Black heritage and their communities.
From the nurses who came from the Caribbean to help set up the NHS, to their descendants, the scientists, mathematicians, allied health professionals and leaders whose action and ideas help shape the NHS today.
The history of the NHS is that of diversity – from the arrival of the Windrush in 1948 to today, the NHS has always relied on talent from around the world.
This year’s theme is ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’ and celebrates the resilience, strength, and commitment to progress that defines Black communities. The theme also highlights the amazing contributions made by Black people, be they leaders, activists, or pioneers who have shaped history.
The theme focuses on two values: power and pride.
Power represents the influence, leadership, and capacity to effect positive change. It acknowledges the visionaries who have led political, civil rights, and social movements, as well as those who have broken barriers in business, education, and the arts. Their legacies remind us that true power is not about titles but comes from collective strength, courage, and unity used to create a more equitable future for everyone.
Pride reflects cultural identity, heritage, and the celebration of Black excellence. From the art and music to the stories passed through generations. Pride is also declaration of the beauty, the resilience, and the unmatched contributions of Black culture to the world.
Black History Month will honour key anniversaries, including the 60th anniversary of the Race Relations Act and the assassination of Malcolm X. These milestones are a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice, and the efforts of those who have fought for the rights of Black people and communities. Black History Month 2025 should challenge us all to break down barriers, continue pushing for progress, and hope for a more inclusive world.
An important way to celebrate Black History Month is by becoming an advocate for diversity and inclusion. Ensuring that people of different races are treated equally and to tackle discrimination. Find out more about our Antic-racism perfect care goal.
Are you interested in joining our staff network? Membership is aimed at staff from multi ethnic backgrounds; however, our network is also open to any staff interested in helping to improve inclusion.
More info is available about how to get involved, check out the extranet here.
Liverpool has long been a city where Black history, culture, and creativity thrive – not just in October, but all year round. For Black History Month 2025, a dynamic partnership of artists, heritage groups, cultural institutions and community activists have once again come together to create a powerful and inspiring programme that reflects this year’s national theme of ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’.
For a programme of local events taking place, please check out the Culture Liverpool website.
People of African and Caribbean decent have historically and chronically been underrepresented throughout history. They have faced discrimination, prejudice, bias, and racism just because of the colour of their skin. In recent years, the world has starting to understand the importance of giving black people a voice and the consequences of racism on individuals and wider communities.
If you are interested in Black history, some useful websites for further reading are below: