Black History Month Hackney Poetry: Honouring Black Voices with Hidden Literature and Hackney Council
October in the UK marks Black History Month, so it’s a time to honour and celebrate Black voices and stories nationwide. This year’s Black History month theme, “Reclaiming Narratives,” reminds us of the importance of giving Black communities the space to share their experiences and tell their own stories. Because of this, Hidden Literature, a poetry brand partnered with Hackney Council to host a Black History Month celebration with a poetry and music open mic at Grow, Hackney in October 2024. This event was curated as a space for celebration, education, and reflection, inviting voices from all backgrounds to share in the collective experience of spoken word and music for Black History Month.
A Night of Reflection and Celebration in Hackney
The Black History Month-themed open mic night at Grow, Hackney was a night charged with passion and purpose, and Hackney Council’s support made it possible to bring together poets, spoken word artists, and performers from across London, and worldwide. This created a vibrant stage where identity, culture, and Black history converged, so attendees could share stories on themes of resilience, ancestry, and the rich tapestry of Black identity. It was a powerful experience for both performers and the audience because it offered space to explore and celebrate who they are, and a deep connection to their roots.
In alignment with Black History Month’s theme of reclaiming narratives, the event encouraged individuals to voice their truths, perspectives, and experiences. Whether through poetry or music, performers used art and creative expression to reflect on their heritage, explore their identities, and celebrate their histories. For Hidden Literature, this event was more than just a one-time gathering; it was a platform to deepen community bonds and encourage learning from one another while honouring the multifaceted stories that are often unheard.
Continuing the Celebration Beyond Black History Month
While Black History Month provides a dedicated time to spotlight Black voices, Hidden Literature believes these voices deserve to be heard all year round. The poetry brand was founded with the mission of creating inclusive spaces for expression and connection, so it aims to offer events that bring people together to celebrate and learn from each other. This mission will continue with their next events on the first Tuesday of every month.
If you missed the last open mic night, don’t worry—you’re invited to join us for another unforgettable evening! Our next show promises the same energy, and we’re bringing a commitment to community, inclusivity, and storytelling. Taking place again at Grow Hackney, this event will offer the chance to come together, share in the magic of spoken word, and participate in something that goes beyond Black History Month.
Want to be part of the experience? Get your tickets at hiddenliterature.com or find them on Eventbrite to reserve your spot. We can’t wait to celebrate creativity with you and continue honouring Black voices!
