On Friday, we gathered at Brotherton House for Honouring Our Communities, a Black History Month celebration of the people who shape Salford and Greater Manchester.
The room was filled with members, volunteers, partners and guests, and with the stories of people who serve our communities every day. It was a privilege to bring everyone together.
The theme behind the day
Honouring Our Communities is the national theme for Black History Month 2026. It turns the spotlight on the people whose contributions are part of everyday life but often go unseen: volunteers, teachers, carers, community leaders and neighbours.
The theme also recognises the role community has played throughout Black history, from early Black communities in Britain to the Windrush generation and beyond. It celebrates the individuals, organisations and networks that continue to create opportunities, build connections and support others.
For us, the theme is personal. Many of our members, volunteers and partners are part of the communities being honoured, and their stories are woven into the work we do every week.
Everyday heroes in the room
Our guest speakers reminded us of the breadth of that contribution. In the room were health carers, educators, drivers, volunteers and many others who give their time and care to others, often without recognition.
Too often, the people who make the biggest difference are the least likely to be in the spotlight. They are the carer who arrives early, the driver who gets people to appointments, the volunteer who stays behind to tidy up and the educator who makes time for one more question.
They are the people who hold our communities together. Honouring them is not only about saying thank you; it is about making their work visible and recognising the difference they make every day.
A warm welcome
Thank you to Pendleton Together for hosting us free of charge at Brotherton House, and for providing sandwiches and water to keep everyone refreshed. Thank you to Asda Foundation for the healthy snacks, and to every volunteer who helped set up, welcome guests and make the day run smoothly.
To our members: thank you for trusting us and for being with us, as always. Celebrations like this are only possible because you are part of them.
It was a relaxed afternoon, with time to talk, share food and reconnect with people we have not seen for a while.
Thank you
Thank you to everyone who joined us and to the people who shape our communities. Thank you also to our partners and supporters:
- Salford City Council
- Salford ESOL
- Postcode Lottery UK
- The National Lottery Community Fund
- Autotrader
- Salford Loaves and Fishes
- Forever Manchester
- Warm Hut UK
- Good Things Foundation
