The event will build upon the success of our Proud to be Black event 2021. However, this year we will have performers from different backgrounds to show we are all in this together; this aligns with The World Reimagined agenda where 'our history is a shared one.' The Globe will be central. Also, this years theme of Black history month 'Allies need to take action because it is time for change.' Although our focus will be celebrating Black artists we will ask that allies and other marginalised communities join the line up. Southport Against Racism is a racial justice group that believes education is key to getting the changes needed to prevent racism. Therefore, having partnered with two schools already, we will work with another school and use their venue for the event. This not only builds connections with schools but it means the children get involved. This also gives us a mandate to support the school to strengthen their anti racist policies and encourage diversity groups.

What we'll deliver:

• Educate on anti racism and The World Reimagined Project aims
• Bring a diverse community together to celebrate in unity
• Networking to bring long term awareness of racial issues

Why it's a great idea:

The benefits from the last event was that a group called SACHA was formed to support and celebrate African and Caribbean culture; they meet monthly. Southport Against Racism has grown by being featured on the Radio, newspapers and by being sponsored by Sefton. This has created awareness of the issues that we are trying to promote. People who have suffered racism have been able to come to us as a group and open up about their trauma. We have directly supported them or signposted them. There was a buzz in the school about our event and this led to Black POC children in the diversity groups feeling more empowered and able to take part in Black History Month. We got lots of feedback from other people saying that they had learned so much and wee going to go on in their lives to share the knowledge. It was also very healing for diverse communities to come together and share their culture. It aids better understanding and empathy for our neighbours. We helped break down misconceptions.

Steps to get it done:

We would have (funding dependent) several artists performing, cultural food tasting and cultural market stalls. Having had experience in the cost of putting on these events it would be around £1,500. The costs are the food, the PA system, paying the artists, expenses, promotion materials. We already have a bank of artists that we know will make the event memorable. This year we would like to have drums and dancing.