Black History Month – Hidden Figures
  • Jill Craigie Cinema, Roland Levinsky Building, University of Plymouth

Save event
We are excited to announce an upcoming event as part of Black History Month, a two-year project, Hidden Figures, which is dedicated to honouring the unsung heroes of Plymouth’s rich history. This initiative aims to shed light on individuals whose significant contributions have often gone unnoticed or unappreciated or forgotten.
Rachel Hawadi, a passionate historian and committed community member, will lead this enlightening presentation. With her team, Rachel is devoted to uncovering the hidden figures who have played pivotal roles in shaping the past of our city. During her presentation, she will highlight several key individuals who had an influential impact on Plymouth.
In conjunction with Rachel’s presentation, we will also introduce the acclaimed film Hidden Figures (2016), a powerful movie directed by Theodore Melfi based on actual events that chronicles the struggles faced by three African American women at NASA during the space race (see below for more details).
Join us for this inspiring event that not only honours our city’s hidden figures but also encourages ongoing dialogue about equality and recognition in our society.
Date: Thursday 31 October 2024
Time: Presentation: 16:00, the film will start at approximately 17:00
Venue: Jill Craigie Cinema, Roland Levinsky Building
Ticket information: Free, booking required
Previous October 2024 Next
Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
 

Ten Hidden Figures of Plymouth

  • William Cuffay: A pioneering Chartist leader and political activist
  • Claud Miller: Plymouth's first Black mayor
  • Jack Leslie: A trailblazer in English football and the only black professional player in England during his time with Plymouth Argyle
  • Ann Wilkinson: A champion of diversity and racial equality
  • William Bill Miller: A legacy of service and resilience
  • Mary Seacole: A pioneer in nursing and a hero of the Crimean War
  • Jimmy Peters: A trailblazer in the world of rugby and a symbol of resilience and determination
  • Sam and Isatta Kallon: Champions of refugee support and community unity
  • Ratna Lachman: A tireless advocate for civil rights and social justice
  • Thomas Scott Mclean: A story of resilience and history
Ten Hidden Figures of Plymouth

The Hidden Figures of Plymouth

The ​Hidden Figures project is committed to telling the untold stories of People of the Global Majority who have made an impact in Plymouth. Sponsored by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project will share the stories of past historical figures and current living leaders through events, presentations, school talks, history walks… and much more! 

Hidden Figures (2016)

Director: Theodore Melfi, US, 2016, 127 minutes
Cast: Taraji P Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe, Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons
This powerful movie is based on actual events and chronicles the struggles faced by three African American women at NASA during the space race. It poignantly illustrates the challenges they encountered in their fight for racial and gender equality – victories that were neither easily won nor quickly achieved. 
The film serves as a reminder that while progress has been made, there is still work to be done in recognising and celebrating diversity and inclusion.
Hidden Figures cast at the Kennedy Space Center. Credit: By NASA Kennedy / Kim Shiflett (KSC-20161212-PH_KLS03_0005) [CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Wikimedia Commons
Image: Hidden Figures cast at the Kennedy Space Center. Credit: By NASA Kennedy / Kim Shiflett (KSC-20161212-PH_KLS03_0005) [CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons]
Event organised in collaboration with the EDI team at the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business, and supported by The Bridge, University of Plymouth.
 

Event photography and video

Please be aware that some of the University of Plymouth's public events (both online and offline) may be attended by University staff, photographers and videographers, for capturing content to be used in University online and offline marketing and promotional materials, for example webpages, brochures or leaflets. If you, or a member of your group, do not wish to be photographed or recorded, please let a member of staff know.