The theme for Black History Month 2025 is “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” a powerful tribute to the resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment to progress that defines the Black community across the globe.

In school we held a special assembly to highlight the contribution made by Commonwealth nations to British military service from the First World War to today which links in with class topics. There are several passages in the Bible that talk about how we are made in God’s image. For example, Psalm 139.14 says, ‘I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.’ Being made in God’s image means that we are all equal, no matter how we look or what we believe. However, we see inequality all around us: people living in war-torn countries or in peaceful ones, people who have more money than others, people who are treated differently because of the colour of their skin or their religion. In assembly, we heard about some people who ignored their differences in religion, wealth and background to fight to serve others.

We can help others, despite our differences. When he was on earth, Jesus said, ‘Love your neighbour as yourself’ (Mark 12.31). This means treating others as we would like to be treated: with kindness, love and respect. Kindness can be verbal – like giving a compliment – or an action – like holding the door open or sharing.