100 Black Men of London: Black History Challenge 2003
The 100 Black Men of London (100 BMOL) is a community development organisation that has existed for two years. The organisation focuses on four key areas in its work with London’s black community:
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Mentoring
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Economic development
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Health and wellbeing
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Education
What is the Black History Challenge?
The Black History Challenge (BHC) has been adopted from the 100 Black Men of America’s ‘African-American History Challenge’. The BHC under the 100 BMOL focuses on Europe and in particular, the African-Caribbean experience in the United Kingdom. It aims to increase the interest of young people in understanding the legacy left to them by their forebears and encourage the living of lives worthy of that legacy.
The rationale behind it is an education scholarship programme designed to enhance the study of African-Caribbean experience in the United Kingdom.
How will candidates be questioned?
Schools or youth organisations entering the BHC are required to read specific chapters from Staying Power: The History of Black People in Britain by Peter Fryer. This book is fascinating and well written. It traces the history of Black people in Britain, who have made significant contributions to culture and history for several centuries. It also recounts movements against slavery and later against racism. Many things which are left out of the history books are here in this very serious and readable work.
What are the benefits of having a BHC?
The competition is designed to spur keen and heated rivalry. Yet the competitive spirit is developed within an experience that will engender mutual respect and admiration among competitors. This perspective is based on the notion that able, prepared and dedicated people somehow develop an appreciation for each other’s abilities. The result is the development of an individual who knows, loves and appreciates him or herself, but who also admires excellence in others.
The BHC will also educate young people in schools and the wider community about the significant contribution Black people in Britain have made in developing this country as a whole. The BHC is an excellent opportunity for schools to explore, understand and value the contribution Black people have made in their communities within British society.
Who is eligible to enter the BHC?
The 100 BMOL’s BHC is open to schools and youth organisations based in London and its suburbs; team members must be between the ages of 12 and 14. One team per school or youth organisation can enter. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis with a maximum of sixteen teams being admitted to the competition.
When will the event take place?
Rounds will begin on 23 September 2003, and the final will be held on 21 October at City Hall.
How can I apply to enter the BHC?
All applications must be submitted via the 100 Black Men of London website.
What is the deadline for applications?
If you wish to enter the BHC, you will need to submit your form via email or post as soon as possible, and no later than 11 July.
All competition rounds will take place at City Hall, the office of the Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone.
How many candidates per team can be entered for the BHC?
A team must consist of two people. A replacement will be required in the event of illness or other emergency.
Are there any special requirements for children entering the BHC?
Team members must be between 12 and 14. Other than that, the only requirement is enthusiasm to learn!
Can more than one team be submitted from a school/youth organisation?
No. Only one team per organisation can compete.
Promoting race equality
Since the new Race Relations Amendment Act 2000, public bodies, including schools, have a duty to promote race equality. The BHC is a great opportunity for schools to embrace, promote, acknowledge and value the overlooked contribution Black people have made in all communities within British society.
More information
To learn more about the 100 Black Men of London, visit www.100bmol.org.uk, and to enter the competition either:
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Log on to our competition website
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Email us at bhc@100bmol.org.uk
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Telephone 0870 121 4100
