We would like to wish our Surrey community a happy Black History Month!

What is Black History Month? 

Every October, we celebrate Black History Month in the UK. This is an important annual celebration of the contributions that Black people have made and continue to make to the UK. It is also an opportunity to recognise the achievements, experiences, and impact of Black communities across the country.

Black History Month is a time to learn more about Black history, heritage, culture and achievements, while reflecting on the lasting influence that continues to shape our society today.

How to get involved this October? 

At Surrey we believe in celebrating and championing Black history, culture and communities throughout the year. Why not have a look at our What's On Calendar to find out more? 

Black Sport Collective Events & Activities

The BSC is an inclusive initiative designed to create a supportive community for Black students through sport, physical activity and social engagement. Following feedback, the initiative is expanding its focus to include networking opportunities and a stronger employability focus. This project is led by the Union and closely supported by Surrey Sports Park, and has received funding from the University. 

The initiative aims to increase participation in sport, celebrate Black representation and achievements, and provide opportunities for students to build friendships, confidence and leadership skills. Alongside sporting activities, the Collective hosts networking events, discussions, workshops and social events that bring students together in a welcoming environment. Find out more here. 

Join a Society!

There are several societies that celebrate cultures, identities and interests- providing opportunities to connect with others. Why not find out more about the East & Southern African Society here? Or the Surrey African-Caribbean Society here? 

Celebrate Black History Month with the Library

This Black History Month, the Library is celebrating the theme "Honouring Our Communities" through a range of activities designed to inspire reflection, conversation and discovery.

Explore our specially curated reading list featuring Black authors from the Library collection and discover a companion Box of Broadcasts playlist showcasing recordings and interviews with many of these writers and creators.

Visit the Library to browse a display of books available to borrow, highlighting diverse voices, stories and experiences, and take a moment to view our digital slideshow celebrating the contributions, achievements and communities that have shaped Black history and culture. Display will be 12th October 23rd October.

We also invite you to add your voice to our Black History Month reaction board. Throughout the month we'll be posting daily questions linked to the themes of Black History Month, giving you the opportunity to share your thoughts, experiences and reflections with the wider University community.

Lets Talk! Stall with the Wellbeing Team

Meet with Steve Elliott, Centre for Wellbeing counsellor, for an informal chat about mental health in minority communities. Taking place on Tuesday 27 October 2026, 2:00pm - 4:00pm outside the Co-Op. Find out more about wellbeing services here. 

Black Minds Matter UK: 

Did you know the University has partnered with Black Minds Matter UK? This partnership aims to improve mental health awareness and access to culturally informed support for black students and students from racially minoritised backgrounds. Discover their fully funded counselling sessions, six Ambassador opportunities and other ways to get involved. Find out more here.

Student Equality Network

The Network is a group run by students, for students and supported by the Union. Its purpose is to help to ensure that the Union and University remain informed about the experiences of different groups that make up our Student community. Find out more about opportunities available to speak out about your Student Experience. Find out more here. 

Other Events & Resources:

We have put together some interesting upcoming free events and activities you can get involved with both online and in person. 

•    Talk and draw: Celebrating Black History Month | Events | National Gallery, London
•    Walks & Tours - Black History Walks
•   The Music is Black: A British Story - Exhibition at V&A East Museum · V&A
• People Watching - Art Fund
• The Art of Black Voices: A Black History Month Showcase | Guildford School of Acting (GSA) - Visit Surrey
• African kingdoms: sovereignty, splendour and resistance | British Museum
• Out of Africa: stories of migration, materials and mythology | British Museum
• London's Black history | London Museum
• Abolition Song and its Legacies Tickets, Friday, October 16  •  6:30 PM - 8:30 PM | Eventbrite
• The good, the black and the boujee | Losses and gains of class aspiration - LSE
• Pan-Africanism: A History | Department of International History | LSE - LSE