Tag Archives: Standing Firm in Power and Pride

Black History Month: Standing Firm in Power and Pride

By Matthew McKenzie – Founder of A Caring Mind, unpaid carer, and advocate for ethnic minority carers

This October 2025, I had the privilege of joining Carers Support West Sussex to speak during their Black History Month celebrations under the theme “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.”

Carers Support West Sussex provides advice, emotional support, and practical help to unpaid carers across the county of West Sussex, ensuring they are recognised, valued, and empowered in their caring roles. Their work helps thousands of carers connect with the right information, resources, and community networks when it matters most.

As a Black, unpaid carer of lived experience, I spoke about Race, Inequality, and Carer Voices exploring how racism and structural inequality continue to shape the experiences of carers from ethnic minority backgrounds.

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Standing Firm in Power and Pride — A Certitude Black History Month 2025 Celebration

By Matthew McKenzie – Mental Health Carer Activist

As a carer and mental health advocate, I often see how culture, identity, and lived experience shape the stories we tell and the way we support one another. Recently, I attended a remarkable Black History Month event hosted by Certitude, although I could not stay long, I left feeling inspired, proud, and deeply reflective about the intersections between culture, community, and care.

The Black History Month event was held at Bruce Kenrick House on the 16th of October 2025

About Certitude

Certitude is one of London’s leading social care providers, supporting people with learning disabilities, autism, and mental health needs to live fulfilled and independent lives. What makes Certitude special is its person-centred approach celebrating individuality, empowering self-expression, and ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive.

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Power, Pride, Progress: A Celebration of Black History Month 2025

By Matthew McKenzie – Facilitator of national ethnic carer forum

Black History Month 2025 is not far behind, this blog celebrates the spirit of “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.” The video. hosted by Matthew McKenzie, founder of the National Ethnic Mental Health Carer Forum invites viewers on a reflective and inspiring journey through history, identity, and purpose.

Unpacking the Theme: Power and Pride

“Power” in Black History Month isn’t about titles, it’s about leadership that uplifts communities, resistance that shapes policy, and vision that transcends obstacles. From political trailblazers to artists and educators, Black leaders have transformed the narrative of equity.

“Pride” stands for cultural identity, heritage, and the vibrant legacy of Black excellence across generations. It pulses through art, storytelling, music, and traditions that echo forward. This month invites us to embrace that heritage without reservation or apology.

Call to Action: Watch, Reflect, and Share

We invite you to watch the video, reflect on its message, and share it widely. Encourage your community. friends, family, colleagues to stand firm in their own power and pride. Let’s amplify these voices and build bridges toward an inclusive future.

Commemorating Groundbreaking Milestones

This year holds special significance:

  • The 60th Anniversary of the Race Relations Act — a pivotal moment in Britain’s legislative effort to combat racial inequality.
  • Remembering Malcolm X — whose courage and conviction continue to inspire global movements for justice.
  • The 80th Anniversary of the Fifth Pan-African Congress — where visionaries like W. E. B. Du Bois, Kwame Nkrumah, and Amy Ashwood Garvey united to confront colonial oppression.
  • Honouring Paul Stephenson OBE — leader of the 1963 Bristol Bus Boycott.
  • Honouring Lord Herman Ouseley — instrumental in advancing Britain’s approach to institutional equality.

Their legacies reinforce that our present progress is rooted in collective courage and unwavering solidarity.

Why This Matters for Mental Health and Carers

At the core of the National Ethnic Mental Health Carer Forum’s mission is the recognition that cultural heritage and identity are integral to wellness and caregiving. It’s a call to action. It urges us to:

  • Break down barriers that impact mental health support.
  • Cultivate environments where cultural pride is part of healing.
  • Celebrate carers, families, and communities who carry resilience forward every day.

I hope the month brings us together, brings communities together to celebrate black history. Thanks for reading.