Barking and Dagenham Council officially kicked off Black History Month with a memorable launch last night, which had The Broadway Theatre in Barking filled to capacity.

The exciting night of performances and discussions was hosted by Barking and Dagenham's very own Janice Francis-Irwin, former world and European karate champion.

Those in attendance were treated to traditional African drumming and dance from Masai Cultural Arts, followed by a talk on tracing your ancestry by author and genealogist, Paul Crooks.

UKON Careers had a stunning interactive carnival display which was complemented by the council’s Hall of Fame display highlighting some of the borough’s black residents.

There was a lively dancehall act by dance crew Liit Youth from ATTIK Youth Club and a performance from the multi-award winning storyteller, Usifu Jalloh 'The Cowfoot Prince'. The night concluded with a powerful poem from 16 year old Harika Kyungu, a young person who attends the community group 'Moms on a Mission'

The Black History Month flag was then raised outside the Town Hall, where it will be flown for the whole of October.

Councillor Lynda Rice, Cabinet Member for Equalities and Diversity, declared the night a huge success.

What a night to welcome Black History Month to the borough and what a fantastic programme of events we have planned across the borough throughout October – there really is something for everyone.

Cllr Rice said: “What a night to welcome Black History Month to the borough and what a fantastic programme of events we have planned across the borough throughout October – there really is something for everyone.

“Black History Month is about educating others, with knowledge sharing a big part of that, and celebrating the contribution that Black communities have made to the world.”

For more information on events and activities taking place this October, visit our Black History Month webpage.