For Black History Month 2026, themed 'Honouring Our Communities', we celebrate the Black leaders, churches and networks whose everyday work shapes communities across the UK and around the world.
Their leadership is often unseen. But it's the foundation of change: in faith, in racial justice and in the fight against the climate crisis.
This Black History Month, we honour them. We share their stories. And we stand alongside them.
Racial and climate justice
Black communities in the Global South are on the frontline of the climate crisis, yet contributed least to causing it. We're calling for climate solutions that put racial justice at the centre.
Our survival is at stake, it should be amongst the most urgent theological issues for our action and meditation. Inaction could result in a life or death situation for our brothers and sisters suffering in our home countries and indeed other areas in the global South.
Change starts when communities come together. From Black-led churches in the UK to grassroots movements across the Global South, this is what a shared fight for justice looks like.
Reparations aren't only financial. They're about truth, acknowledgement and action. Churches and institutions that benefited from historic injustice have a role to play in setting things right.
In scripture (Luke 19:8) Zacchaeus said, 'If I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.' Historic churches must take the lead in the process of reparation and acknowledge that they have benefited greatly from historic exploitation.
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Black History Month resources
Explore blogs, films and reflections on the connection between racial and climate justice, and the Black leaders shaping the response.
Ven, Dr Rosemarie Mallett, in Rage & Hope: 75 Prayers for a Better World
Loving God, You have created all things
And by your will they have their being
We rage at a system that teaches and treats black people as if they are not made in the image of God and created equal.
We seek redress for the years of torment and trauma of being othered.
We repent of a system that still demands black people justify their place in every space.
We pray for your liberating kingdom and kin-dom to come on earth as it is in heaven.
The light of the Lord has come, the glory of the Lord is rising.
Lord, shine and arise within us, as we rise, we rise.
What is Black History Month?
Black History Month is an annual celebration of the contributions, culture and achievements of Black people and communities.
It recognises the role of Black leaders in shaping racial justice and social progress. And it raises awareness of the challenges Black communities still face today.
In the UK, Black History Month takes place every October.
What is this year's theme?
The theme for Black History Month UK 2026 is 'Honouring Our Communities'. It celebrates the individuals whose everyday contributions shape, support and sustain Black life across the UK. Volunteers. Teachers. Faith leaders. Carers. Grassroots organisers. The people who make community possible.
Why is learning about Black history important?
Learning about Black history is crucial for fostering understanding and empathy by showcasing the struggles and achievements of Black communities. It reveals the impact of systemic racism and the ongoing fight for racial justice, equipping individuals to engage in important conversations about equality