SWU Conference 2025 keynote speaker Vivian Okeze-Tirado invites social workers to join her at this free event in Horsham, West Sussex on October 10th for conversations, reflection, learning and growing together.
In 2021, receiving the England Social Worker of the Year and Social Justice Advocate award by The Social Worker of the Year Awards marked a pivotal moment in my career, affirming my commitment to advancing equity and inclusion. Since then, I have intentionally aligned my work with broader social justice initiatives, including the active commemoration of UK Black History Month, starting primarily through digital engagement.
Today, I feel proud to have pioneered this initiative and moving it beyond the online space into the heart of the community by facilitating our 2nd in-person community anti-racism conference to mark Black History Month in Horsham, West Sussex on the 10th of October.
Join in! Tickets are free and we only have few places left.
The conference, just like last year will provide a space for meaningful education, listening to lived experiences, and working together on positive actions that can bring about real change. I see this as more than just an event, it is a growing legacy that I feel honoured and humbled to have founded.
Black History Month began in the United States in 1926, founded by historian Carter G. Woodson as “Negro History Week.” His vision was to ensure that the contributions, struggles, and resilience of Black people were acknowledged, taught, and celebrated. Over time, this grew into the Black History Month we know today, an international observance reminding us of the importance of memory, justice, and progress. Britain adopted the celebration in 1987. The first Black History Month in the UK took place on October 1st 1987.
We must not forget the origins of Black History Month.
It exists because for too long, Black history was overlooked, silenced, or erased. Honouring this month is not simply about commemoration, it is about action. Each year, we are called to learn, to reflect, and to commit to change.
I am glad that we are keeping up with the legacy of UK Black History Month. Marking this day with action is what truly gives it meaning.
This free conference is our action!
Happy Black History Month UK!