The theme for this year's Black History Month is 'Reclaiming Narratives' and, throughout the month, we are delighted to be bringing you the personal stories of some fabulous Action Together members.
These people are paving the way for change and challenging the system in their communities. We want to ensure that their voices are heard, their experiences are acknowledged, and their contributions are celebrated. This week, we're pleased to hear the personal views from United Sisters, a community-focused group supporting women and children who are facing significant challenges.
Can you tell us a little about your group?
The United Sisters is a compassionate and community-focused group dedicated to supporting women and children who are facing significant challenges, such as abuse, abandonment, and hardship. Our mission is to provide holistic support through emotional healing, financial assistance, and ensuring access to essential needs like food and shelter.
We work to create a safe, empowering environment where no one faces adversity alone. We offer a space for those in need to rebuild their lives with dignity, and our services include providing nutritious meals, especially to bedridden victims of abuse, offering financial help for stability, and extending emotional support through counselling and guidance.
Our vision is to foster a world where every woman and child feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. We aim to be a beacon of hope, uplifting lives and helping build a stronger, more resilient community. The United Sisters stands as a lifeline, ensuring that love, support, and sustenance are always available to those in need.
What prompted you to get involved and support your community?
The decision to get involved and support our community through The United Sisters was driven by a deep sense of responsibility and compassion for the vulnerable individuals around us—especially women and children facing abuse, abandonment, and hardship. Seeing the struggles of those in our community, the isolation, fear, and lack of resources they often endure, moved us to act.
Many of us had either witnessed or personally experienced the impacts of this adversity, and it became clear that something had to be done. We realised that offering a lifeline - whether through emotional support, financial help, or simply a compassionate presence - could make all the difference. The desire to create a nurturing space where no one feels alone in their struggles was the driving force behind the formation of this group.
Additionally, we believe in the strength of community and that, together, we can build a more supportive environment where every individual has the chance to thrive. This vision inspired us to dedicate our efforts to creating tangible, positive change for those who need it the most.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month holds deep significance for us as The United Sisters because it serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, contributions, and struggles of Black communities throughout history. It's a time to reflect on the legacies of those who paved the way for greater equality, freedom, and justice while recognising the work that remains to be done. For us, it’s not just a month of remembering history but also an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural heritage, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals across all fields.
As a group that focuses on empowering vulnerable women and children, Black History Month reinforces our commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by Black women and families. Many of the injustices they face today are rooted in historical oppression, and this month highlights the importance of standing together, advocating for change, and ensuring that marginalised voices are heard.
It also reminds us to draw inspiration from the powerful stories of resistance, strength, and community-building that have shaped the Black experience. Black History Month pushes us to continue uplifting and empowering those in our own communities, working toward a future where equality and opportunity are accessible to all.
The theme this year is ‘Reclaiming Narratives’. Is there a story you find particularly inspiring you’d like to share with us?
The theme of Black History Month this year, “Reclaiming Narratives,” is a powerful one, as it encourages us to take control of stories that have often been told from the wrong perspectives or even silenced. One story that deeply resonates with us is that of Claudette Colvin, a 15-year-old girl who, before Rosa Parks, stood her ground against segregation on a Montgomery bus in 1955.
Claudette Colvin's story is inspiring because, at such a young age, she had the courage to stand up to racial injustice, refusing to give up her seat to a white person. This act of bravery came at a time when segregation was deeply entrenched in society, and the consequences of such defiance were serious. While Rosa Parks became the face of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, Claudette’s story was almost forgotten, even though she played a crucial role in challenging the discriminatory laws of the time.
What makes her narrative so important to "reclaim" is the fact that, despite her courage, Claudette was not celebrated in the same way as others, possibly because of her age, circumstances, and the biases of that era. Yet, her contribution was invaluable—she became one of the plaintiffs in Browder v. Gayle, the landmark case that led to the Supreme Court ruling that bus segregation was unconstitutional.
Claudette Colvin’s story reminds us that everyone’s voice matters, no matter their age or background, and that history should reflect the contributions of all individuals, especially those whose courage and strength might otherwise be overlooked. Her narrative is one we find particularly inspiring, as it embodies the spirit of fighting against oppression and reclaiming one's place in history, a message central to the mission of The United Sisters as we empower and uplift women and children facing adversity.
What change would you like to see in your borough that would benefit the Black community?
One of the key changes we would love to see in our borough, which would significantly benefit the Black community, is greater access to resources and support systems focused on mental health, economic empowerment, and education. These are crucial areas where systemic barriers have historically left Black individuals and families underserved, leading to inequalities that persist today.
- Mental Health Support: Mental health remains a taboo subject in many communities, and the Black community often faces added stigma or lack of culturally appropriate care. We would like to see more mental health services that are accessible, affordable, and tailored to the unique challenges faced by Black individuals, especially women and children who may be dealing with trauma from abuse, discrimination, or socioeconomic stress. This is very important to us in United Sisters.
- Economic Empowerment Programs: Financial instability is a significant barrier to progress, and we believe the borough could benefit from initiatives that focus on creating job opportunities, entrepreneurship training, and financial literacy for the Black community. Programs that encourage economic empowerment would help families break cycles of poverty, promote self-sufficiency, and reduce reliance on short-term assistance.
- Educational Equity and Opportunities: We would also like to see an increased investment in education, particularly initiatives that provide mentorship, career guidance, and support for Black youth. Empowering young people with the tools to succeed academically and professionally would have a long-term, positive impact on the community. Schools and community organisations could play a vital role in ensuring that Black children receive equal opportunities, representation in the curriculum, and support systems to nurture their potential.
- Cultural Celebration and Representation: It’s also essential to see more celebration and visibility of Black culture and contributions throughout the borough, not just during Black History Month but all year round. This could include art, cultural festivals, and community spaces where Black voices and stories are centered and celebrated, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.
These changes would not only uplift the Black community but also contribute to a more inclusive, equitable, and connected borough. At The United Sisters, we believe that by addressing these key areas, we can help create a more supportive environment where everyone, especially the most vulnerable, can thrive.
And finally, what would you say to Black people in Greater Manchester to inspire them to make a difference in the community or wider?
To the Black community in Greater Manchester, I want to say: Your voice matters, and your actions can create ripples of change. Each of you carries the strength and resilience of generations who fought for justice, equality, and recognition. Here are some thoughts to inspire you to make a difference in our community and beyond:
- Embrace Your Story: Your experiences, struggles, and triumphs shape who you are. Share your narrative—whether through art, writing, community engagement, or activism. By reclaiming and sharing your story, you inspire others and foster a sense of connection within the community.
- Get Involved: There are numerous organisations and initiatives, including The United Sisters, that are working tirelessly to uplift our community. Your participation—whether through volunteering, mentoring, or simply being a supportive friend—can have a profound impact. Every small effort counts and contributes to the greater good.
- Educate and Advocate: Use your voice to raise awareness about the issues that matter to you and your community. Educate those around you, advocate for change, and hold leaders accountable. Your perspective is invaluable, and when you speak up, you contribute to a broader understanding of the challenges we face.
- Support One Another: There’s incredible strength in unity. Support Black-owned businesses, collaborate with local organizations, and uplift each other. Together, we can create a robust support network that empowers everyone, creating lasting change.
- Dream Big and Act Boldly: Change often begins with a dream, so don’t be afraid to envision a better future for our community. Whether it’s pursuing higher education, starting a business, or leading community projects, let your ambition inspire others. Your actions can serve as a beacon of hope and possibility.
- Celebrate and Honour Our Heritage: Take pride in your heritage and share it with others. Celebrate our culture, history, and contributions to society. Recognising where we come from gives us the strength to move forward with purpose.