“Now is the season of Samhain. It is the season of our ancestors, of our glorious dead, of those who have fallen and crossed over the veil from this world to the next. This is a time for us to honour them and pay tribute.”
This month’s Culture Club is a very special event in the The Village Hub's calendar, as Samhain walks hand in hand with Black History Month this October – a perfect time to remember and honour our ancestors.
People from African and Caribbean backgrounds have been a fundamental part of British history for centuries, but their contribution has often been overlooked, distorted or ignored. As the theme for Black History Month 2024 is 'Reclaiming Narratives', the organisers are excited to have Patrice Naiambana who will be leading an interactive storytelling and drumming workshop. Not only will it be energetic, it’s educational and insightful too. What a way to honour those who have been before!
Local resident, Rudolph Archer will be sharing the story of patties – why they may look familiar to you, how to make one and how delicious they taste. Expect to get hands on while learning how to make this Caribbean delight. There will be a fire roaring in the Blockhouse Park Community Garden, where Patrice will lead us in telling a story. A perfect spot enjoy your feast plate!
For children, there is a cosy role play fire area within the community centre for themed reading and story time, as well as colouring to enjoy a quiet moment or to take home.
As a group, The Village Hub will be continuing to work on their autumnal rag bunting and will feast on a delicious Jamaican veggie stew. Please bring along something to add to the Caribbean-themed 'Potluck Feast' table. Perhaps a bread to go with stew, a mango or pineapple chutney, Jamaican ginger cake, rice and peas, or even a coconut slaw, sweet corn fritters, plantain, sweet potato or peaches and fruity salsa.
All are welcome at this free event to celebrate Samhain this year, and honour all of our ancestors and their histories.