On Tuesday 20th October, Simon Baynes MP spoke in the Black History Month debate in the Chamber of the House of Commons where he used the opportunity to pay tribute to the many untold stories of Black Britons of African and Caribbean descent who for many generations have made significant contributions to our society but deserve much greater recognition.
Mr Baynes celebrated the enormous contribution that Black British people have made and continue to make in shaping our society. However, he also recognised that there is more to be done in recognising, exploring and paying tribute to their contributions to society.
As a member of the Speaker’s Advisory Committee on Works of Art, Mr Baynes is also involved in discussions about improving the diversity of representation and inclusivity in the Parliamentary art collection. Rather than seeking to remove works of art from display, Mr Baynes has encouraged an open and transparent approach to reviewing the artwork, in which reinterpretation is a key part of the approach, so that the artwork can become an educational resource and make a significant contribution to the overall appreciation of Black History.
Speaking later, Simon Baynes MP said:
“I am very pleased to have contributed to this debate in the House of Commons. Black History Month deepens our understanding of how the study of history should address the past and should be taught across the UK. And above all, it reminds us and emphasises that people of all races in this country have a shared history and a shared future together.”
