Hounslow residents invited to celebrate Black History Month at Brentford FC’s stadium

Hounslow Council’s free event will see former Brentford player Marcus Gayle and the Leader of Hounslow Council celebrate its 2024 Black History Month event.

Published: Tuesday, 3rd September 2024

Brentford Community Stadium viewed from outside

Hounslow residents are invited to sign up for a Black History Month event at Brentford FC’s stadium next month. The event, which will take place on Wednesday 9 October, will see a multitude of exciting speakers discuss the importance of this year’s theme ‘Reclaiming Narratives’. 

Along with representatives from the local Ghanaian Community Forum, Dr Rob Waters from Queen Mary University will highlight the role Black businesses played in Black communities while PhD student Olivia Wyatt with outline Black women’s activism in Britain. 

Dr Olly Ayers from Northeastern University London will discuss how their work is using digital maps and archival investigation to reconstruct a Black presence in the city going back hundreds of years.

The Leader of Hounslow Council, Councillor Rajawat, will speak at the event. Speaking about its vital importance, he said: 

I am really excited to attend this event and learn more about the contributions and achievements Black communities have played in London and beyond. 

The last couple of months have proved incredibly challenging for our communities as we have grappled with far-right riots in the summer and many residents expressing fear for their families and communities.

However, our borough is proud to not only celebrate diversity but thrive on it. Events like this illustrate that diversity is our strength, our vitality and the very essence of our community.

This year’s theme also underscores a commitment to showcasing the untold success stories of Black communities while challenging the narratives that have often overlooked the contributions and achievements of Black individuals.

Marcus Gayle, former Brentford player and Club Ambassador who will also be speaking at the event, added: 

 We’re proud to welcome members of the local community to Brentford’s home, the Gtech Community Stadium, as we celebrate Black History Month. This month is an important time to remember and honour the stories and events that have played a key role in shaping the Black community today.

 It’s vital for the Black community to share their truths by telling their own stories. In doing so, we can challenge stereotypes, preserve our history, and take control of our own narratives. I look forward to hearing these powerful stories at the event.

After the closing remarks, attendees have the option for a tour of Brentford FC’s stadium.

To book tickets for the event, click here. 

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