Black history should be a mandatory part of the curriculum in England according to Lavinya Stennett, the founder of the Black Curriculum. She believes that by relegating black history to just one month or only implementing it in schools with diverse students, the risk of hatred and racism increases. Stennett specifically pointed to the riots that occurred in England and Northern Ireland over the summer, citing them as consequences of a lack of widespread diverse teaching available to all students.
In an interview with the Guardian for Black History Month, Stennett expressed her concerns about the slow systemic change in recognizing the importance of black history. She criticized the resistance to accurately reflecting black history in the national curriculum and providing mandatory training for teachers. Stennett also highlighted the impact of the government’s opposition to what it considered “anti-white” rhetoric in schools, which hindered the teaching of black history.
Stennett emphasized the need for the government to show clear support for the black curriculum and make it mandatory for all schools to engage with. She suggested setting specific goals for teachers to achieve by a certain deadline to ensure accountability and progress. Stennett praised the approach taken in Wales, where black history lessons are mandatory, and highlighted the positive impact it has had on teachers’ buy-in and engagement.
While the Department for Education stated that they are reviewing the curriculum to address diversity and inclusivity, Stennett believes more concrete actions are needed to ensure that young people have access to a broad and balanced curriculum that reflects the diversity of society. She stressed the importance of top-down support for the black curriculum in England, similar to the approach taken in Wales.
Overall, Stennett’s advocacy for mandatory black history in the curriculum is driven by the belief that it is essential in combating hatred and racism, especially among young people. She hopes to see tangible progress and support from the government to ensure that all students have access to diverse and inclusive education that recognizes the full humanity of black Britons.
