BLX2025 | BHM: Black History Month

This October, Poplar Union proudly presents BLX 2025, a vibrant celebration of Black History Month’s theme, “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” with the support of London Borough of Tower Hamlets. Immerse yourself in an exciting programme of dance, photography, film, live music, and Cotall Street Market celebrating Black strength, resilience, and cultural identity while honouring past achievements and championing a future where Black voices lead, unite, and inspire lasting change. Join us as we uplift and preserve the powerful stories that deserve to be heard and remembered.

Supported by Tower Hamlets Council

Event Lineup:

Canab Cuud presents:
Somali Buraanur & Dhaanto dance course
Fri 3, Mon 6, Mon 13, Fri 17, Mon 20, Fri 24, Mon 27 October
5.30pm–7.30pm | Girls & Women only | FREE

Canab Cuud is a Somali Buraanbur artist whose poetry explores womanhood, history, and culture. This October, Canab and her daughters lead seven beginner-friendly sessions celebrating Somali culture through Buraanbur, alongside Dhaanto and Jaandheer traditional dances. Celebrate heritage, rhythm, and confidence in this unique series created by women, for women.

My Turn: Holly Oluwo artist exhibition 
Thu 9 October to Fri 31 October
9am–5pm | 16+ | FREE
PRIVATE VIEW: Thu 9 October, 6pm–10.30pm

Holly Oluwo is a collagist, mother, poet & model. Her ‘Anatomical Bits’ collage exhibition reinforcesthe theme of reclamation through art.

The Young Sierra Leonean (Young Salone) presents:
Kip Kompin 09
Sat 11 October | 18+ | FREE
7pm–10pm

Kip Kompin returns with an evening of award-winning ASabiPasYu interactive quiz gameshow, film showcase, live performances plus spoken word, music, and comedy from emerging and established artists. This year features a wildcard open mic, and vibrant connections celebrating the African Diaspora.

Film screening:
A Thousand and One
Sat 25 October | 5pm–7pm | 18+ | FREE

Set against 12 years of New York’s sweeping transformation—marked by policing, gentrification, and political unrest—this film explores Black motherhood, resilience, and identity, highlightingthe sacrifices families make to survive.

Poplar Poetry Evening (PPE) presents:
A Night of Poetry & Expression
Sat 25 October | 18+ | FREE
6.30pm–10.30pm

An exciting evening of inspiring stories, captivating sounds and playful fun. Open Mic sign-up from 6.30pm, and Showtime at 7pm.

Grand Union presents:
Malcolm X Marks the Spot: Assassinating Prejudice
Sat 30 October | FREE
Workshop 1pm–5pm | Performance 7pm–10.30pm
(after 6pm, under-18s need a parent or guardian)

A day of open creative Workshop + live Performance, celebrating Black voices through powerful musical narratives that reflect cultural heritage and history. Grand Union Orchestra is a pioneering group known for their cross-cultural approach, combining diverse musical traditions with storytelling.

Angela Andrew presents:
Lindy Hop

Thu 13–Sat 15 November | 6pm–7.30pm | 18+ | FREE
(Extended class on the 15^th with a social event from 6pm to 10:30pm)

Join renowned dance artist Angela Andrew for three lively beginner-friendly Lindy Hop classes at Poplar Union. Discover the joy of swing dance with classic steps, improvisation, and music from jazz and blues to gospel and folk.

Through BLX 2025, Poplar Union invites everyone to honour the past, embrace the present, and help shape a more equitable future. Join us for an inspiring month of events that celebrate the enduring contributions of Black heritage and culture. For more information, visit www.poplarunion.com or contact us at info@poplarunion.com.

Poplar Union is committed to creating a vibrant community hub that supports and celebrates diverse voices and talents. Join us this Black History Month to experience the BLX (Black Legacy Xchange) and be part of a transformative cultural journey.