THE month of October marks African History Month and this year Oxford will recognise Africans who fought in the First World War.

Chaka Artwell has organised debates and talks throughout the month.

Included is a special remembrance service to be held on Sunday.

The Barton resident said: “Last year I was disappointed that Oxford didn’t have anything for African History Month.

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“Instead of complaining I thought I would have a go at putting it on.”

As well as debates on African Christianity and churches, Mr Artwell decided to add an event to mark the centenary of the First World War.

He said: “As the English nation remembers the 1914 to 1918 war, it is fitting for us to also remember and celebrate the large number of military service men from Africa who volunteered to assist England.

“I went to a traditional remembrance service earlier this year and I had veterans asking me why we weren’t getting African soldiers recognised and remembered.

“I didn’t have a good answer and I thought I would do something about it. I want to readdress the balance.”

He added: “I don’t think people realise the huge number of African people who took part in various battles between 1914 and 1918.

“I want to really honour and remember them with a fantastic, marvellous event. They’ve got some story to tell.”

As well as remembering Africans, the event will also recognise servicemen from India and the Caribbean.

Pupils at The Cherwell School in North Oxford have created a poem about soldiers on the Somme, and there will be talks from Oxfordshire County Council leader Ian Hudspeth and a member of the Sikhs’ Oxford Gurdwara.

Sunday’s event will be at the New Testament Church of God in Between Towns Road at 6pm.

Mr Artwell has also arranged a debate at Ruskin College in Headington on Wednesday, October 22, and a fundraising party on Saturday, October 25 at the Cowley Conservative Club,. Between Towns Road.

For more information call Mr Artwell on 07757812449.

 

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