Cohesion Plus working in partnership with the North Kent Caribbean Network supported by Kent Equality Cohesion and Gravesham Borough Council arranged a special community celebration to mark Black History Month. The Council Chamber in Gravesend was at maximum capacity with some 200 in attendance to celebrate the significant and positive contribution made by those of Caribbean descent.

Guests included the Mayor of Gravesham Cllr Gurdip Bungar, Deputy Lord Lieutenant Dr Bhagwara Vasudaven and Chairman of the KCC Cllr Ann Allen. Highlights of the programme included Lennox Rogers from local charity Refocus who spoke about his experience with gang violence and his eventual rehabilitation. There were also exciting and bold performances by local dance troupe Taboo Dance Company and emerging rap/poet D-Wayne.

Gurvinder Sandher the Artistic Director of Cohesion Plus commented, “I was overwhelmed by the response we had to our Black History Month celebrations in North Kent. Moving forward I am keen for 2020 to work with partners to deliver similar celebrations in other parts of Kent. Black History Month is an excellent opportunity to showcase stories, music and culture which connects the past with the present.” Michelle Bramble Cohesion Plus Board Member and Chair of the North Kent Caribbean Network commented “The support from our local community underlines the importance of holding celebrations like this for Black History Month. I have had nothing but positive feedback from those who attended and I am proud of what we were able to achieve. It is important to remember that Black History isn’t just a month and I am proud that we are able to celebrate this event with Cohesion Plus who works tirelessly to promote cultural diversity and cohesion all year round.”