Gwynedd Council is calling on residents to share their stories of how black people have contributed to Gwynedd’s society.

Those put forward will be included in the council’s celebration of Black History Month 2021 in October.

Black History Month has been celebrated across the UK for more than 30 years as a way of recognising and celebrating black people’s contribution to culture and society. The council is eager to ensure black history is something people are more aware, and proud of.

Cllr Nia Jeffreys, cabinet member who leads on diversity said: “I think 2020 was a watershed moment when many people realised the systematic racism and unfairness of our society.

“We want to make sure that the events of the last year are not forgotten and that we do more to ensure that the black history of Gwynedd is shared and celebrated. People of all ethnicities, backgrounds and cultures have made Gwynedd their home for centuries, but very few are recorded or recognised in our history books.

“As other areas of the UK are doing, we want to right that wrong and I hope this initiative will be a step towards giving a more rounded view of Gwynedd.

“The overall percentage of black or ethnic minority people here in Gwynedd may be lower than the national average, but this doesn’t justify that many are unaware of our diverse history.

“Thank you to those who have already sent in suggestions and shared memories. If anyone else would like to draw people’s attention to those who have made Gwynedd a special place for all of us, please get in touch.”

To contribute, email [email protected]u or contact the council via social media channels.