DMU's Black History Season will present a month-long series of events that will look at issues facing the black community today and celebrate the heritage, history, arts, culture and accomplishments of people across the African, Caribbean and Asian diasporas.
We were thrilled with the engagement of our alumni community with the events last year and we have another fantastic programme of virtual events for you to get involved with:
Monday 5 October, 1pm-2pm
Karl Lokko is a former gang leader turned activist, poet, influencer, public speaker and adventurer.
Having grown up on a gang-ridden estate in South London, he has managed to harness his life experiences which have propelled and uniquely situated him as an activist and influencer within the U.K and globally.
The story of his incredible transformation, combined with his unique ability to connect with people on a human level, makes Karl one of the most potent voices in the country, allowing him to bridge the gap between worlds and unite communities.
Tuesday 6 October, 5.30pm-6.30pm
An energetic class with an authentic African feel inspired by afrobeat song and dance. Hit those beats and get low!
Tuesday 13 October, 5.30pm-6.30pm
A fusion of reggae, hip hop, dub, drum and bass to get your heart rates up and shake those calories off in no time! Feel the burn to your favourite music from black culture. Don't forget your water and best trainers!
Tuesday 20 October, 5.30pm-6.30pm
Another dance fitness class combined with Soca and Calypso in a carnival atmosphere straight from the Caribbean islands! Dress in bright colour and bring your national flag and come and rep your inner power through the form of dance!
Tuesday 20 October, 6pm-7pm
As part of Black History Month, Rise Up and Leicester Centre for Creative Writing's Anthony Joseph will be joined by authors Courttia Newland and Irenosen Okojie to discuss their writing life and the challenges of navigating the book industry as a writer of colour. This event will feature readings alongside a panel discussion. Chaired by publisher Farhana Shaikh.
Tuesday 27 October, 5.30pm-6.30pm
A modern take of theatrical technique and style from Black American origin to learn a Jazz dance routine. A great class for strength and tone whilst enjoying the rhythms and feeling every move throughout your body.
Thursday 29 October, 4.30pm-5.30pm
Centred against a backdrop of racial tensions, systematic discriminations and global activism, The Exchange will host a panel-led discussion to explore issues of race and black masculinity within the media.
The panel will identify constructions of negative black typologies and the impact such characterisations have on the black male psyche. We will explore the impact and legacies of Blackness on screen and celebrate the pioneers who continue to place race at the forefront of this generation.
Friday 30 October, 3pm-4pm
Annie Price is a presenter and fitness trainer.
She began her television career in 2016, telling the story of her childhood in the film Annie out of the Ashes for BBC Three. Following on from this, with her characteristic warmth and humour, Annie went on to make Plastic Surgery Capital of the World and Tiredness Tears and Tantrums: Diary Of A New Mum, both for BBC Three.
She was named on the 2018 BAFTA Breakthrough Brits along with 19 other talented newcomers across film, games and television.
2019 saw Annie make new documentary Inside the Cage: The Rise of Female Fighters for BBC Three.
Posted on Monday 28 September 2020