Black History Month 2026
This Black History Month, we have put together three thought pieces exploring history, health and community. One is a tribute to a towering voice in Black British culture. Another is an honest look at the health inequalities still facing Black communities today. The third is a reflection on what allyship really means in practice. Each piece is a short read with plenty to think about. Have a look below.
Piece 1: Spotlight — Linton Kwesi Johnson
This Black History Month, we are shining a spotlight on Linton Kwesi Johnson, poet, dub pioneer, and one of the most powerful voices in Black British history. From “Di Great Insohreckshan” to a lifetime of poetry as resistance, his work reminds us of the power of language to challenge injustice and tell the stories that matter.
Click here to read the full piece.
Piece 2: Health inequalities facing Black people in the UK today
Black communities across the UK continue to face stark and persistent health inequalities, from maternal health outcomes to mental health detention rates. In this piece, we take an honest look at what the data tells us, why these gaps exist, and what needs to change.
Click here to read the full piece.
Piece 3: Not By Chance, thanking Francesca Tackie as she steps down as Chair
This Black History Month, we are saying thank you to Francesca Tackie, who is stepping down as Chair of BHA’s Board of Trustees after nine years in the role. Her tenure reflects something bigger about BHA: representation at every level shapes the decisions an organisation makes and the trust communities place in it. This piece looks at why that kind of representation is still so rare, and what it takes to build it deliberately.
Click here to read the full piece.
Piece 4: Lived experience and allyship
What does meaningful allyship look like beyond October? This piece explores the value of centring lived experience in health and social care, and what it really means to stand with, not just speak for, Black communities all year round.
Click here to read the full piece.
Piece 5: Staff reflections on Black History Month
To close out the month, we asked our own staff to share what Black History Month means to them personally, why it matters, and the impact it has had on them and their work. This final piece brings together those reflections in their own words.
Click here to read the full piece.