Ealing (Parliament Politics Magazine) – West Ealing Community Library marks Black History Month 2025, spotlighting Oscar-winner Steve McQueen, teen author Lauryn Rose Teixeira, and local legacies.
In an effort to emphasize the value of heritage, creativity, and community leadership, the Melbourne Avenue library has kicked off its Black History Month program by honoring three local residents: Oscar-winning filmmaker Steve McQueen and teenage author Lauryn Rose Teixeira.
The first person to ever win both an Academy Award and the Turner Prize, Sir Steve McQueen, was born and raised close to the library. Sala Abdalla, a humanitarian and surgeon from Ealing who escaped Sudan as a child refugee, is also honored.
Lauryn Rose Teixeira, a former student who is now a published author and whose work has already earned her the 2025 Young Ealing Foundation Award, will be joining them.
Her family is from Cabo Verde and São Tomé.
The 2023 theme is “Creative Futures from the Past and Standing Strong in Power and Pride” which encourages youth to use their history and highlights the history of Black leadership and creativity.
What events is West Ealing Community Library hosting for Black History Month?
Libraries in the borough, including West Ealing, are offering free creative sessions in October across the borough, themed around Black History Month.
There are drama performances, storytelling events, and talks celebrating Black history and culture and some events will explore different themes related to inspiring stories of success and countering stereotypes with active participation from the community.
Aspects of talks by authors who have explored Black community experiences across history, individuals such as Elisia Swaby and leadership in anti-racist movements will feature. There are also workshops such as poetry or roles playing or drama sessions inspired by Black historical figures and legacies.
For exact details, booking information, and times for individual events in West Ealing Community Library, visiting the library directly, or the pages for Ealing Council cultural events is advised.