The NELFT Ethnic Minority Network is proud to celebrate Black History Month. Throughout the month of October, we will be hearing from network members and some of our allies, who will be sharing around this year’s theme ‘Proud to be’.

We'll be sharing videos from colleagues throughout the month as they talk about what Black History Month means to them and why they are 'Proud To Be'

Here's Melody Williams. Integrated Care Director for Barking & Dagenham and Barnet, sharing what BHM means to her as a white ally:

Marlene Raji, shares with us what she is proud of professionally: 

Richardson Allen one of our clinical development practitioners tells us about his family heritage:

Jacqui Van Rossum Executive Director of Integrated Care (London) talks about acknowleding, honouring and celebrating the history of black people.

 

NELFT Ethnic Minority Network (EMN) in the community 

On Sunday 3 October 2021, the first of two Black History Month Community Fairs took place at Redbridge Central Library and NELFT’s EMN were there in force! 

EMN joint chair Natasha Howard, clinical development practitioner Richardson Allen, and associate director of AHPs Chris Tuckett set up an eye-catching stall and took the opportunity to speak to members of the community about a range of topics. 

Physiotherapist Chris administered grip strength tests and provided advice on building strength to help prevent falls. Redbridge Council’s Deputy Leader Cllr Kam Rai was one of many willing participants. Chief nurse Wellington Makala also dropped in to show his support. 

Natasha and Richardson talked to visitors about finding high quality health information on the internet and health careers options, guiding young people to the  North East London Health and Care Partnership Careers site. 

The Fair included lots of stalls selling cakes, books and luxurious health and beauty products.

There are also lots of other really exciting and educational events going on across our geography. We encourage you and your families to explore what is happening in your local communities and to get involved. Here is a short list of some of the activities:

Black History Month Events - EMN Chairs' Choice! 

Area information:

• For more info on events in Redbridge visit Redbridge - Black History Month 2021
• For more info on events in B&D visit Black History Month | LBBD
• For more info on events in Essex visit Black History Month Essex Events 2020 | Essex Cultural Diversity Project (essexcdp.com)
• For more info on events in Kent visit Kent - Black History Month 2021
• For more info on events in Barnet Library events | Barnet Council
• For more info on events in Waltham Forest https://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/content/black-history-month-2021
• For more info on events in Havering Black History Month event on National Poetry Day with guest poet Tolu' A. Akinyemi | The London Borough Of Havering

Proud to be webinar

On Monday 18 October we will be hosting a webinar also be focused on the same theme, and will feature the inspirational Dr Patrick Vernon OBE, who will be speaking with us about the history of music. There will also be a musical rendition from Dr Earl Henry of Alabama, USA, as well as an opportunity to hear about some of the music that has evolved over the centuries, but whose essence remains with us today and is such an integral part of black history.