Black History Month at Durham Law School 2023

Held every October in Britain, Black History Month (BHM) was first introduced in London in 1987 through the Greater London Council, as a means for offering a sense of history, achievement and continuity within the Black community.

In the same year, the African Jubilee Year Declaration was launched which called on local and national government authorities to recognise African contributions to the cultural, economic and political life of London and the UK. Over the years, hundreds of local and national events have been organised across the UK in commemoration of Black History Month. It has also evolved into a celebration of cultural diversity, and has significantly contributed in promoting inclusion in the UK.

Throughout October 2023, we will be sharing captivating videos where our students and staff delve into the intersection of Black History and Law. Get ready for thought-provoking insights, inspiring stories, and a deeper appreciation for the role of law in shaping history. 

Charlotte

Charlotte Rodney (2^nd year LLB) share her research into the Zong massacre, and the case that came from it: the Gregson and Gilbert case. 

(TW: Racism//Slavery//Murder//Death)

Sicelo

Sicelo Ngwenya (LLM in International Law and Governance) tells us about the people behind Martin Luther King’s famous ‘I have a Dream’ speech and the importance of community. 

Tom

(TW: Racism//Slavery//Death)

Tom Allen (Professor) talks about the local Durham lawyer, Granville Sharp, the slave Jonathan Strong and the work towards abolishing slavery in England through the case Somerset v. Stuart.

Vanisha

(TW: Racism//Harassment//)

Vanisha D'Souza (1st year LLB) Tells us about Darcus Howe, member of the Mangrove Nine and the first judicial acknowledgement of racial hatred behaviour within the Metropolitan Police. 

Jack

(TW: Racism//Death//Harassment// )

Jack Johnson (1^st year LLB) shares the life of scholar and anti-apartheid activist Ruth First, who taught at Durham University in the 1970’s.

Isabella

(TW: Racism//Harassment//Segregation)

Isabella Ferro (1^st year LLB) tells us about her research on aspiring lawyer Claudette Colvin and the refusal of abiding by the segregation laws in the USA, before the famous refusal by Rosa Parks.