Analysis: Black History Month - Youth services celebrate race in their own ways

Along with colder weather and Halloween, Black History Month is fast becoming a key feature of October.

Black History Month originated in the US during the 1920s and first entered UK consciousness during the late 1980s. Since then it has been embraced by youth services as a useful opportunity for informal learning.

Rodney Adams, Black History Month co-ordinator for Leeds City Council, says the UK's interpretation of the event differs from how it is treated in the US.

Broader focus

"What is different in the UK is that it has become a broader concept here than in the US, where it is solely focused on African and Caribbean culture. However, there is very little set in stone about how to celebrate it, which gives people room to decide for themselves," he says.