A Watford charity brought special guests together for Black History Month for an evening of talks on racism and discrimination.
One Vision organised the Zoom event which took place on October 25 which was called Black History Month – What does it mean? with its hashtag ‘#proudtobe’.
Black History Month UK is a national celebration which promotes and celebrates black individuals, their achievements and contributions to British society and it is also a time to foster an understanding of black history.
The event’s special guests included Ghanaian Deputy High Commissioner Madam Rita Tani Iddi, High Sheriff of Hertfordshire Lionel Wallace, former headteacher Gilroy Brown, care treasurer Alphina Ndlovu, founder of Care Ruth South and many others.
One Vision said: “Racism and discrimination affect us all in a variety of ways. It is divisive and affects how we think, feel and behave.
“The spiritual, physical, social, psychological, moral, and economic harm it does to all people and communities is enormous - this unnecessary evil must change.”
Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “It was great to join everyone for this thought-provoking event. Watford is a diverse town where people come together to share each other’s successes and struggles.
“This event was a good opportunity to reflect on the contributions made to the life of our town by people of many different backgrounds.”
Dean Russell MP said: “It was great to attend the Zoom event hosted by One Vision to mark Black History Month and hear from such incredible speakers and inspiring contributors.
“A common theme was about tackling prejudice and racism which connected closely to the evidence I have heard as a member of the Online Safety Bill Committee.
“We have seen racist abuse sadly rising across social media platforms which makes it even more important to take the time to promote and celebrate diversity in our communities.
“As an ambassador for the Nelson Mandela Memorial Book I have long championed the importance of diversity.”
One Vision founder and CEO Enoch Kanagaraj said: “We face many challenges and we should not be ashamed of calling out those challenges. All these forces and many others undermined the community spirit that we all want to foster.
“Together we are stronger, it is important that we celebrate and educate our younger generations.”
One Vision works on four pillars which are The Food Program, Watford Youth Council, Mental Health and Wellbeing and One Voice.
Chair of One Voice said Sharon Platt-McDonald said: “I found it truly inspirational.
“As uncomfortable issues were addressed, there was a recognition that there is much more to accomplish in our fight against racism, to change mind-sets and ensure equal representation and equity of access, to all opportunities.”
The full meeting can be watched here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBLC7ymH0nM
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