Black History Month – What Makes Me, Me?

31 October 2024  |  Blog

Jordan Edwards, Head of Communications and Marketing, Peer Power Youth

I have chosen to write a reflective piece for Black History Month, discussing identity and the work of Peer Power Youth. 

At Peer Power Youth I have the privilege on leading on our Anti-Racism Equality and Equity circle. This ‘circle’ is a meeting that is held monthly and contributes to our one of our strategic objectives – ‘building an anti-racist charity and tackling oppressions in all its forms’.  

In one of our recent sessions, we explored race and identity. One Young Partner asked me, “Would you describe yourself as ‘Black’ or Mixed Race”? 

I found the conversation to be insightful as we spoke about how people might also perceive you to be a certain race, ethnicity or part of a particular culture. We discussed how this outsider perception can play a role in shaping your identity.   

I replied that I describe my ethnicity as ‘Mixed-Race’ but I also identify as ‘Black’ and with ‘Black’ culture. 

We discussed that when you’re asked to describe your ethnicity on a legal form or survey that you only have one choice. I believe there’s more nuance to your culture and identity than it just being one answer. 

A Peer Power Youth Trustee, spoke in this meeting about the importance of being comfortable with our identity and being authentic to who we are. I resonated with this as I’m proud of different parts of my identity. As that’s what makes me, me.  

I’m proud to be British and equally to have grandparents from Saint Lucia who shape part of my identity too. When I visit Saint Lucia, it feels familiar, I feel at ease, almost like home.  

I’m proud to celebrate Blackness, there’s power in lifting communities who have excelled, achieved and trailblazed. At Peer Power Youth we build on people’s strengths, and we equally highlight systemic inequalities through our work. 

Black History Month is reminder of the contributions and achievements of Black individuals throughout history and in the present. However, it’s crucial to recognise that celebrating Black history shouldn’t be confined to just one month and it shouldn’t feel tokenistic.

When we highlight achievements, we promote narratives of expertise, character, and strength. We can challenge stereotypes and shift the conversation toward recognising individuals for their talents and contributions.

Celebrating Black history reinforces our collective responsibility to continue to build a more inclusive and equitable society. We want to shape a future where all individuals can thrive, collaborate, and uplift one another.