GWYNEDD Council has called on its residents to share their stories of how black people have contributed to the county’s society in different ways throughout history.

Those put forward will be included in Gwynedd Council’s celebration of Black History Month 2021, which will be marked in October.

Black History Month has been celebrated in Wales and across the UK for more than 30 years as a way of recognising and celebrating black people’s contribution to all aspects of culture and society.

The council is eager to ensure that black history is something that we are all more aware and proud of, so is asking for people to share their stories.

Councillor Nia Jeffreys, Gwynedd Council 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 their suggestions and shared their memories. If anyone else would like to draw people’s attention to people who have made Gwynedd a special place for all of us, please get in touch.”

To contribute your thoughts, memories or stories to the collection, please send them to: equality@gwynedd.llyw.cymru, or contact Gwynedd Council via its various social media channels.