Celebrating importance of Black History Month and those who champion equality

It’s Black History Month and throughout October, Swim England will be celebrating individuals from all aspects of aquatic sport who are championing equality.

Here swimmer Andre Blackman and Mike Hawkes, Swim England’s head of diversity and inclusion, share why Black History Month is so important.

For André Blackman, Black History Month is not just a time of celebration but a vital occasion to honour the resilience of Black communities and inspire future generations.

Originally from Barbados, André moved to the UK in 2008. 

A member of Out to Swim for the last seven years, he views Black History Month as an essential part of the global cultural calendar in countries where it is observed and celebrated.

He said: “Black History Month is significant because it provides a dedicated time for everyone to recognise and celebrate the contributions and struggles of the Black community

“It encourages dialogue and challenges systemic racism, which is necessary for progress.”

André believes the month fosters important cross-cultural understanding.

Resilience

“Learning about and engaging with other cultures helps break down stereotypes and misconceptions,” he said. 

“It demonstrates the resilience of Black communities — where we’ve come from, where we are now and where we are going as not just Black people but as part of the human race”. 

André believes, regardless of colour, no one should be put down, saying: “There’s enough on this planet to be shared equally for all of us to thrive and to be as one.”

He reflected on the values he learned at Catholic school, adding: “There’s a song that’s stayed with me since childhood:

“’Friends are like flowers in the garden of life.

“Are you a daisy? Are you a rose? Are you a red hibiscus?

“You can be what you are, and I’ll be what I am.

“We will be friends in the Garden of Life.”

Making history

The England Swims campaign highlighted the barriers to participation in aquatic sports faced by members of the Black community. 

During October, these challenges will be addressed with support from the national governing body’s members.

Mike, Swim England’s head of diversity and inclusion, explained: “Black History Month has been a fantastic opportunity to engage with, and learn from, members across the aquatic community.

“In previous years, we have been measured in our involvement during Black History Month as we are conscious that inequalities remain within our sports.

“However, we are working hard to change this as we now believe our actions are sufficient to underpin the words we will be sharing throughout October.

“It’s important to provide a platform for a number of people of colour to share their experiences and how our members are, in our interpretation of Black History Month, making history.

“These conversations will be shared throughout the month and beyond – and we hope that everyone finds them interesting and insightful.”

If you have any questions or would like to share your experience, please email [email protected].