On Saturday, October 23rd, Lewes Town Hall hosted a successful evening of celebration and reflection as part of Lewes’ Black History Month celebrations.
Lewes Town Mayor, Stephen Catlin and Councillor Dr Janet Baah welcomed special guest speaker Nick Hines from Stand Up to Racism, award-winning local poets John Agard and Grace Nichols, and Brighton-based poet/spoken word artist Priss Nash to highlight the significance of Black History Month and its often-hidden contribution to wider British history.
Over 100 members of the public, councillors and special guests were entertained by acclaimed flutist Keith Waithe, and the event was kindly supported by musician Daniel Lauro with the Lewes Music Group, who demonstrated West African instruments to the attendees in the interval, and then invited participants to join them on stage for the grand finale.
Food from Irma’s Café was served in the interval, which was enjoyed by the public and guests alike, especially their signature spicy BBQ gravy.
Speaking about the event the Town Mayor, Councillor Stephen Catlin, said: “I was honoured and delighted to be present at such a momentous occasion. This was the first Black History Month event at the Town Hall and everybody is delighted with its success, we are very happy to have shone a light on to this valued part of our community.”