Havering Council, Police And Community Celebrate Black History Month.

Black History Month, an annual celebration of the history, achievements and contributions of Black people in the UK, officially began in Havering on Wednesday 1 October 2025 with a flag ceremony at Havering Town Hall, Romford.

The ceremony was attended by the Leader of Havering Council, Councillor Ray Morgon, Deputy Lieutenant for the London Borough of Havering Nick Bracken OBE, local ward councillors, and representatives from the Council’s Reinforcing Inclusion through Solidarity and Equality (RISE) staff forum, alongside the Mayor of Havering, Councillor Sue Ospreay and Chief Inspector Bertie from Havering Police.

A minute’s silence was observed to reflect on racism encountered by ethnically diverse people across Britain, both past and present.

This year’s theme, ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’, highlights the contributions made by Black leaders, activists and pioneers who have shaped history, while also looking towards a future of empowerment, unity and growth.

The Council’s RISE staff forum will be leading internal celebrations through a programme of educational and interactive activities. These inclusive sessions are open to colleagues from all cultural backgrounds to celebrate, learn and reflect on experiences shared by RISE peers.

Black History Month will also be celebrated across Havering Libraries, with themed events and book displays throughout October.

The Mayor of Havering, Cllr Sue Ospreay, said:
“Our ethnically diverse communities continue to contribute so much to the borough. So, it’s an honour to mark Black History Month and for Havering to again join the national celebrations throughout October. Thank you to the Council’s RISE Staff Forum for their continued efforts in showcasing a great variety of events and activities for another year.”

Chief Inspector Bertie told the Havering Daily:
“I was proud to join many others at the Town Hall this morning for a short ceremony to see the flag being raised marking the start of Black History Month. Listening to those that spoke and had written poems about their experiences was remarkable”.

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