Black History Month by David Cameron
In an article written by David Cameron for Black History Month, the Premier looked back with gratitude to the African-Caribbean community for their contribution to Great Britain.
Black History Month celebrates the courage of those who came to this country from Africa and the Caribbean in the face of hostility. Every year, during the month of October, Britain and, indeed, the world, pays tribute to the contributions made by the African-Caribbean communities that are now "part of our country’s rich diversity. We thank you all for everything you have done and everything you will do in the future that will keep Britain great" wrote Mr Cameron.
" This year we mark two important anniversaries: 20 years since the end of apartheid in South Africa, and a century since the outbreak of the First World War. This will also be the first Black History Month since the sad passing of Nelson Mandela last year. Of course, it was Madiba himself who led the movement that ended that deeply unfair and unjust system, leading to a new South Africa and giving hope to millions more around the world.
"And as we observe 100 years since the beginning of the First World War we also remember the hundreds of thousands of men from Africa and the Caribbean who came to Britain’s aid in the fight for freedom. Their contribution has often been overlooked but it is reassuring to know this is now changing with new projects, such as Trench Brothers in London, which commemorates the lives of African-Caribbean and other black and minority ethnic soldiers".
It must be said that the annual celebrations pertaining to Black History Month are not just about looking at the past, it is a time to look at the future. The Prime Minister stated that his Government will do its utmost to ensure that any person, regardless of their ethnicity, age or gender, can realise their potential in this country.
"We all have a role to play in this – including the government - which is why our long-term economic plan is designed to create opportunities, boost skills and back hard-working people. Our plan chimes with the strong entrepreneurial spirit of Britain’s African-Caribbean communities and it gives me great pleasure to know that thousands of black entrepreneurs are starting their own businesses with government backing and the number of people of African-Caribbean heritage starting apprenticeships has doubled since 2010".
The knowledge the more business opportunities are now accessible to anyone regardless of ethnic origins is reassuring as this means more economic security for all. Mr Cameron concluded his article by stating that Britain still has some way to go to "achieve full equality but we are heading in the right direction where people of all backgrounds can and have a stake in achieving a brighter future for all in our country".
More on Black History Month HERE
