Mayor of London’s Black On The Square Festival takes place on Saturday 7 September at Trafalgar Square. The free festival is an opportunity for Londoners and visitors to embrace the diversity of Black culture in the capital. This year’s event will celebrate and recognise the importance of collectivism within the community and inspire a sense of togetherness…reports Asian Lite News
Mayor of London’s Black On The Square festival returns to celebrate Black communities and culture. Multi award-winning actor and rapper Bashy will headline this year’s event. The family-friendly festival celebrates Black communities and culture with live music, dance, art and fashion, food and a range of activities.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I am absolutely thrilled to welcome Black On The Square back to Trafalgar Square following last year’s fantastic first festival.
“London’s Black communities make a vital contribution to our culture, identity and success, and this free family event is a fantastic way to celebrate and champion the sheer breadth of the capital’s Black creative talent.
“It sends a loud message of unity at a time when some have sought to divide our communities. London’s rich diversity and openness is what truly defines us and sets us apart as the greatest city in the world, and we will continue to celebrate this as we build a better, more equal and more prosperous city for all.”
Music performers will include Cultur FM, Kofi Stone, Krar Collective, Shingai, Phoebs and Karen Nyame, while there will be a range of activities for children and young people including face painting and art workshops.
The free festival is an opportunity for Londoners and visitors to embrace the diversity of Black culture in the capital. This year’s event will celebrate and recognise the importance of collectivism within the community and inspire a sense of togetherness.
A range of Black-owned businesses will be offering delicious food from Ghana, Guyana, Jamaica, Mauritius and Nigeria, including plantain bites, fusion fish and chips, plant-based ice-creams and West African vegan delights. Stalls will offer a selection of artisan goods ranging from accessories, coats, bags, home décor, candles, art prints, jewellery, headwear and inclusive books for all ages.
Alongside entertainment, there will be businesses and organisations offering a range of services to support the capital’s diverse led business, including London & Partners’ grow London Local and Social Enterprise Foundervine who will provide support to entrepreneurs, with drop-in clinics for start-ups and the more established.
Black On The Square launched last year as part of the Mayor’s commitment to identifying, supporting and celebrating creative talent from London’s diverse Black communities. The celebration is now part of London’s annual calendar of cultural events hosted by the Mayor on Trafalgar Square, which also includes Diwali, Eid, St Patrick’s Day, Lunar New Year, Vaisakhi, St George’s Day, Chanukah, and Pride. This event is curated by an independent Creative Programmer from Fynn Studios and shaped with a Community Advisory Group to ensure engagement with Londoners.
Kobi Prempeh, Creative Programmer said: “This year’s Black On The Square is a celebration of collectivism. With acts such as Krar Collective, Cultur FM and the film showcase hosted by We Are Parable, it is not just an event for people to come together, it will be a place where Londoners and its visitors can be inspired by the multitude of ways Black organisations are encouraging and enshrining the essence of what makes this city so great.”
Shingai, artist and performer, said: “I’m excited to celebrate with allies, brothers & sisters across the diaspora, and our Ancestors through the power of music! After a summer of knock-out festival performances, it’ll be special playing in the heart of our capital city. The contributions of Black & Brown communities to UK creative culture are beyond immense. So, being part of a movement celebrating our vibrancy is beyond thrilling.”
Kojo Owusu Marfo, Vice Chair of the Community Advisory Group said: “As Vice Chair of the Cultural Advisory Group, I am honoured to support Black On The Square, a powerful celebration of Black Culture at the heart of London. This event not only showcases the richness and diversity of our community but also creates the much-needed platform for black talent and businesses. Black On The Square is a testament to the creativity, resilience, and unity within the Black community, and I am proud to be part of the Mayor’s initiative that uplifts and empowers us all.”
