Celebrating Black History Month
Horley Town Council Mayor, Cllr Martin Saunders, recently attended a celebration of Black History Month with the African Community in Surrey and Sussex Group were he had been invited to give a speech.
'Thank you all for inviting me here today to celebrate Black History Month. As the Mayor of Horley, I'm truly honoured to join you for this important occasion.
Black History Month serves several crucial purposes. It sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of black individuals to our nation's history, culture and progress. It provides an opportunity for all of us to learn about and appreciate the diverse experiences and perspectives within the black community. By celebrating black achievements, we inspire young people of all backgrounds to pursue their dreams and make their mark on British society. This month also prompts us to reflect on the ongoing struggles for equality and justice, reminding us of the work still to be done.
As an engineer myself, one individual I would like to remember is Lucean Arthur Headen. Although he was originally from the United States, Headen became a prominent industrialist in Camberley, Surrey, in the early 20th century. During World War II, Headen's inventions relating to improving fuel efficiency and anti-icing methods for aircraft played a crucial role in the British war effort. He also personally contributed by serving in the Camberley regiment of the Surrey Home Guard's 1st Battalion. Headen is a name that should be as well-known as Wright and other aviation inventors and engineers, and I'm pleased to help raise his profile to its rightful position.
But Black History Month isn't just about remembering long ago historical figures; it's also about the people making history in our community right here and now. We should celebrate the work that all of you in this room are doing, both in the voluntary work you do but also your professional careers. In particular, we must celebrate the incredible work that Bola and Yinka do in our community. Running ACISS is no easy task itself, but Bola also made history as the 70th and first black President of Rotary Club of Crawley, with Yinka impressively following her as second.
Understanding and embracing diverse cultures is not just a noble ideal; it's essential for the health and prosperity of our community. When people from different backgrounds come together, they bring unique perspectives that can lead to creative solutions and innovative ideas. By learning about and appreciating each other's cultures, we build stronger, more harmonious communities. In our increasingly interconnected world, cultural understanding is a vital skill for success in education, business and personal relationships. Education about different cultures helps break down stereotypes and reduce discrimination and racism.
In conclusion, Black History Month is not just a celebration for one community; it's an opportunity for all of us to grow, learn and build a more inclusive society. By embracing our diversity and working together, we can create a stronger, more vibrant Horley where everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to thrive.
Thank you and let's enjoy this celebration of black history and culture together.'
