Black History Month

Black History Month


October is Black History month and for me it’s big. As a black person growing up in the UK.

I recognise the importance of celebrating Black History Month to honour the massive contribution that black people through history have made to the culture of the UK, people like Mary Seacole and Sergeant Lincoln Orville Lynch DFM amongst many, many others.

Celebrating Unity and Heritage


It’s so important as a cultural moment in the British calendar because it helps give context to the present. It’s only through raising awareness that we will eventually get to a place of real inclusivity and diversity and Black History Month is a great reminder of that. It aims to promote and celebrate the contributions of those with African and Caribbean heritage to British society and to foster an understanding of Black history in general.

Your Plate, Your Story


Every year The Black Farmer launches special packs to celebrate Black History Month and feature some incredible people who have done so much for British society, like Mary Seacole and Sergeant Lincoln Orville Lynch DFM amongst many, many others.

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Stuart Hall


Stuart Hall, a Jamaican-born cultural theorist and intellectual, is considered one of the founding figures of cultural studies. His work explored issues of identity, race, and media, shaping the way we understand culture and its role in society. Hall's contributions to critical theory and his analysis of how power and representation intersect with race have had a lasting impact on both academia and activism. His legacy as a pioneering thinker continues to influence discussions on race, culture, and identity worldwide.

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Claudia Jones


Claudia Jones was a Trinidad-born journalist, political activist, and a key figure in Black British history. Exiled from the U.S. for her Communist beliefs, she moved to the UK, where she championed the rights of Black communities. She foundedThe West Indian Gazette, one of the UK’s first major Black newspapers, and is best known for organising the first Caribbean Carnival in 1959, a precursor to the iconic Notting Hill Carnival. Jones' efforts to celebrate Caribbean culture and advocate for racial equality make her a significant figure during Black History Month, symbolising resilience, activism, and cultural pride.

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Mary Seacole


Mary Seacole, a Jamaican-British nurse and healer, made a significant impact during the Crimean War. Known for her courage and compassion, she used her knowledge of Caribbean and Western medicine to treat soldiers on the battlefield. Despite facing racial prejudice, she self-funded her efforts and became a pioneering figure in healthcare, leaving a lasting legacy in Black British history.

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Sergeant Lincoln Orville


Sergeant Lincoln Orville Lynch was a Jamaican-born RAF pilot and war hero who served during World War II. As one of the few Black servicemen in the Royal Air Force, he played a vital role in defending Britain, despite facing racial prejudice. After the war, Lynch became an advocate for civil rights, challenging discrimination and inequality in both Britain and the U.S. His bravery in combat and dedication to social justice have made him a powerful symbol of resilience and a significant figure in Black British history.

Meet Some of Our Current Suppliers


We’re proud to partner with a fantastic network of passionate producers. Here are some of the inspiring faces behind the delicious products on our shelves.

Frequently Asked Questions


  • Black History Month began in the UK in 1987, inspired by the original U.S. version. It was first celebrated in London to highlight the contributions of African and Caribbean communities to British society and history.

  • Because too much of Black British history has gone untold or undervalued. This month is about amplifying those stories, challenging stereotypes, and showing how deeply Black culture is woven into the fabric of the UK—from food and music to science, politics and beyond.

  • Made by Dyslexia is a brilliant organisation spreading awareness about dyslexic thinking and pushing for change in schools and workplaces. They see dyslexia as an advantage, not a flaw—and so do I. It’s about recognising what people can do, not what they struggle with.

    👉 Visit Made by Dyslexia

  • You can read a book by a Black British author, shop from Black-owned businesses, cook a Caribbean or African meal, visit a local event or exhibition, or simply share and listen to personal stories. Small steps lead to lasting change.

  • They should. Whether through assemblies, discussion groups, food events, or educational workshops, Black History Month is a brilliant opportunity to deepen cultural understanding and promote true diversity in the places we learn and work.

  • It starts with understanding. Schools, employers, and even families need to stop treating dyslexia like a defect. Provide tools. Be patient. Celebrate different thinkers. Trust me—if we make space for dyslexic minds to thrive, we all benefit.

Why This Month Matters to Me


Black History Month is a time to honour the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future. It’s about recognising the richness of our contributions—not just in history books, but in everyday life, in every corner of British culture. I’m proud to use my platform to amplify those stories, whether through food, heritage, or the people who inspire me. Let’s keep learning, sharing, and showing up—not just this October, but all year round. And if your story begins on a plate, I’d love to hear it.