ESOC BHM 2026

Rewrite the Story: A Black History Month Evening

Edinburgh is rethinking how it tells the story of its links to slavery and colonialism. Tonight, you help write it.

ESOC, in partnership with the Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review, invites young people to an evening of history, debate and celebration for Black History Month.

The game

We’re bringing Edinburgh’s sites into the room. In teams, you’ll move between stations, each one a real place in the city with a real story behind it. Then write the new plaque yourself. Quiz rounds, points and prizes for the winning team and the best plaque.

Why it matters

This isn’t just a game. The plaques you write and the votes you cast will be shared with ESCLR as youth input on how these sites are reinterpreted. Your voice goes somewhere.

Then we celebrate

Food from Uwagboes, a DJ, and time to connect with young people, students and organisations from across the city.

Wear your heritage, or the one you love. Traditional dress, national kits and football or rugby shirts all welcome.