Our Commitment to Reclaim the Narrative: Black History Month 2024 and Beyond
As we move forward toward Black History Month 2024, the theme "Reclaiming Narratives" strikes a deep chord within Do it Now Now (DiNN). This theme is not just a call to action, but a continuation of the work we have been committed to since our founding. Our Manifesto outlines our mission to create a future in which Black people are empowered to live fulfilled lives, free from the barriers of discrimination and inequality. Black History Month’s focus on reclaiming narratives is a reminder of the power of storytelling to transform lives, build resilience, and foster true equity.
The stories of Black communities have long been underrepresented or distorted, but this is changing, and we are here to accelerate that change. Our commitment over the next year, and beyond, is to continue elevating and empowering the voices of Black people and organisations across the UK. This work is fundamental to our work; empowering people, reshaping systems, and challenging unjust structures.
Reclaiming Our Stories, Our Way
As stated in our manifesto, we are determined to "reclaim and reshape the futures that belong to us." For Black and Global Majority communities, reclaiming narratives means taking control of how our stories are told, ensuring they reflect the true depth of our experiences, achievements, and contributions. We are committed to ensuring that our community is not defined by struggle alone, but by the innovation, strength, and creativity that have been our heritage for centuries. The theme of Black History Month 2024 is the perfect opportunity for us to focus our efforts even more on this reclamation.
Our Commitment for the Next Year and Beyond
In alignment with our manifesto and vision for the future, here’s how we plan to help our community reclaim the narrative over the next year:
1. Empowering Organisations to Share Their Stories
Our work through collaborative funding programmes like Make it Big with Pathway Fund, Innovate Now with City Bridge Foundation, and the London Now Now focus on building capacity, sustainability, and visibility for Black-led organisations. Through these initiatives, we will continue to provide the tools and training needed for these organisations to take ownership of their stories and amplify their impact.
We believe that narrative is power, and the ability to define and share one’s story is critical to creating lasting change. By providing resources and platforms for these organisations to tell their stories, we enable them to grow, inspire, and lead with authenticity. Over the next year, we will strengthen our efforts to help them reclaim their narratives through social media, digital platforms, and community outreach.
2. Creating and Expanding Platforms for Black Storytelling
Storytelling is at the heart of our methodology. Whether it’s the work we’re doing with grassroots organisations or supporting aspiring entrepreneurs, reclaiming narratives means ensuring our community has the platforms to showcase their stories without distortion. Through our initiatives, we are providing spaces where Black voices can flourish.
In the coming year, we will expand these platforms, enabling more individuals and organisations to tell their stories through storytelling workshops, digital tools, and media partnerships. We are building an ecosystem where Black narratives are not only preserved but celebrated and recognised for their truth and impact.
3. Shifting the Narrative Around Funding and Philanthropy
As our Cost of Living Report highlighted, Black-led organisations face significant barriers when it comes to accessing sustainable funding. A critical part of reclaiming the narrative is challenging the deficit lens that is often applied to Black-led organisations and shifting toward a narrative of strength, innovation, and growth.
At DiNN, we are committed to continuing our advocacy for equitable funding practices. By showcasing the successes of the Black-led organisations we support, we aim to reframe the conversation around Black philanthropy and funding. Through initiatives like Make it Big, we are helping organisations build long-term sustainability while shifting the narrative from scarcity to empowerment and opportunity.
4. Amplifying the Achievements of Black Innovators
As we continue to support Black entrepreneurs, creators, and innovators through our programmes, we are more committed than ever to amplifying their achievements.
Our goal is to change the narrative of Black underrepresentation by showing that Black innovation and creativity have always been at the forefront of progress. In the next year, we will celebrate the impact of Black entrepreneurs, artists, and thought leaders through digital campaigns, public events, and media stories that reflect the excellence of our community.
5. Inspiring and Uplifting the Next Generation
At the core of our commitment is a focus on the future. We are dedicated to creating opportunities for the next generation of Black leaders, thinkers, and creators to reclaim their stories and shape their futures. Through our youth programmes and partnerships, we will continue to provide mentorship, skills development, and entrepreneurial opportunities that equip young people to define their own paths.
By investing in the next generation, we are laying the groundwork for a future where Black youth can thrive in any field they choose. We will empower them to tell their stories, stand in their truth, and become the leaders of tomorrow.
Beyond Black History Month 2024
Our commitment to reclaiming narratives does not stop with Black History Month—it is an ongoing journey that aligns with our manifesto’s call to “empower people, reimagine systems, and reshape unjust structures.” Over the next year and beyond, we will continue to provide our community with the resources, platforms, and opportunities needed to reclaim and reshape the narratives that have been taken from us.
Together, we will continue to drive systemic change by telling stories that are authentic, powerful, and rooted in the truth of our shared experiences. By reclaiming these narratives, we not only honour our past but build a better future where Black voices are heard, valued, and celebrated.
Join us in reclaiming the narrative—today, tomorrow, and beyond. Let’s rewrite the story, together.
