Editors Letter – October 2024

It’s that time of year.

That time of the year when I am grateful for the last waning days of autumn while bracing myself for the inevitable changes Mother Nature has in store.

Likewise, the October issue of Black Wall St Media was filled with articles that reminded us to take stock of all that we have and value while acknowledging the many challenges we may encounter.

Of course, it was Black History Month, which is always a favourite for me, not least because this year’s theme of ‘Reclaiming the Narrative’ is the exact ethos of Black Wall St Media.

Our contributors sent in a varied selection of topics in honour of Black History Month. I enjoyed reading Jacqueline A Hinds ‘A Deep Hurt: Wounds That Sometimes Never Heal’ “Childhood wounds often linger in the shadows of adulthood, shaping our sense of self.

As Black and Brown individuals, cultural expectations sometimes stifle our voices, leaving us with unhealed scars.’ For me as a child psychologist, the article by Wilson Hinds Consulting addresses a key part of reclaiming our narrative and that of healing.

Columnist Daniella Maison wrote a hard hitting piece with ‘Why are Africa’s stolen artefacts still in Western museums?’ In the second part of her Black History Month special, she explored the ongoing fight for cultural restitution and reclaiming African heritage.

We had some important events covered including the 2nd Black Honour Awards which celebrated remarkable individuals and organisations making a difference in community development, creative industries, healthcare, and more.

I love to see black excellence, so I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and nominees whose achievements continue to inspire and uplift our wider community!

On the topic of excellence, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the incredible legacy of Daphne Steele, the first Black matron in the NHS. Our Windrush ancestors always deserve to be honoured. Daphne’s groundbreaking achievements in nursing and midwifery paved the way for diversity and inclusion in healthcare, inspiring generations of nurses to come. It’s safe to say that October had us reflecting.

We celebrated Black voices, history, and culture. Black achievements are shaping the world we live in from STEM to sports, you name it. But it’s not just about celebrating.

We’ve got to talk about the challenges for Black-owned businesses. We’ve got to honour and inspire black women who are trying to break through the glass ceiling.

As you’re reading this letter, news will be breaking out of who has won the US presidential election. The two outcomes couldn’t be more opposite. Politics aside, we will either be in shock that a man with over 25 female assault victims has been re-elected, or we will be in shock that America finally has a woman of colour as president.

Regardless of her policies, Kamala has overcome challenges to earn her place in history. For women of diverse ethnic backgrounds, seeing Harris climb to these heights has become an inspiration. A reminder that we are not only capable of the highest offices even when we are contending with sexism and racism. For me, she’s a reminder of why my annual awards ceremony

The Baton Awards is still needed. I will be working over the next few weeks to add the finishing touches to The Baton Awards which will take place on the 28th of November 2024, celebrating the achievements of trailblazing women of colour across the globe.

This year’s theme, ‘Power in Solidarity’, highlights the incredible impact of women standing together. Black History Month may be behind us, but we all have a responsibility to bridge the gaps in access and representation and make sure that inclusivity is an ongoing movement, not just a moment.

There is power in solidarity. When we stand together as one, we can achieve great things.