Celebrating Black History Month

That this House recognises October as Black History Month under the theme of Honouring Our Communities and celebrates the exceptional contributions that people of African, Caribbean, Middle Eastern and Asian descent have made to the culture, science, economy and civic life of the UK; acknowledges that honouring communities means confronting inequalities as well as celebrating achievements, and notes with concern that Black women continue to experience significantly poorer maternity outcomes and inequalities in care; believes that research, education and practice must be informed by diverse perspectives and lived experiences if these disparities are to be addressed; appreciates the vital work of grassroots organisations, community groups, researchers, educators and health professionals who work throughout the year to ensure these contributions and challenges are visible and acted upon; further believes that Black History Month should be recognised not just in October but throughout the year; and calls on the Government to embed the history and achievements of people of African, Caribbean, Middle Eastern and Asian descent in the national curriculum, address health inequalities facing Black communities, and sustain investment in the organisations that carry this work forward.