Snapchat are keen to keep us learning about Black History, beyond its allocated month of celebration. The ‘Hidden Black Stories’ project, in partnership with the Black Cultural Archives, will unveil hidden stories of Black British and Black people in the UK through Augmented Reality (AR).
With the help of Slavery Rememberance, Black History Walks, Nubian Jak Trust, Mary Seacole Trust and 100 Great Black Britons, each story has been chosen by a panel of experts and can be seen in London's most iconic square.
Four digital monuments can now be seen via Snapchat in Trafalgar Square, including the work of four Black British up and coming artists, a boxing ring to represent brothers Bill Richmond and Tom Molineaux, a Black sailor – in recognition of the integral and unsung role they played and a statue of the revolutionary Nelson Mandela.
Arike Oke, Managing Director, Black Cultural Archives said, 'We are thrilled to be working with Snapchat on such an important initiative. Black British History is full of incredible people and stories that deserve to be told. This Lens is a virtual award of recognition, the second of a series in which Snapchatters will be able to learn about people they may not have heard of or know very little about.'
The AR experience will be permanent so there's plenty of time to go and check it out, encouraging ongoing education and attention on Black British History, not just restricting it to one month.
MORE: 10 Books To Buy If You’re Trying To Make Your Child’s Bookshelf More Diverse
10 Books For Different Ages If You're Trying To Make Sure Your Child's Bookshelf Is Diverse
Dream Big, Little Leader by Vashti Harrison (2+, non-fiction)
A lovely little board book to inspire even the youngest reader, as well as teaching them about some inspirational Black women in history. It's never too early to start educating children.
So Much by Trish Cooke (2+, fiction)
A classic - and one I remember my dad reading to me often! This book is a joy, and features all of the wonderful family members in baby's life that love him 'so much', and the ways that they show that love.
Look Up! by Nathan Bryon & Dapo Adeola (3+, fiction)
A truly beautiful book - and beloved at Round Table Books! This wonderfully illustrated picture book is all about Rocket, a young girl obsessed with the stars, and her determination to get her community - and also her brother - to look up and experience the joys of the stars with her!
Agent Zaiba Investigates: The Missing Diamonds by Annabelle Sami (7+, fiction)
This fun and inspiring mystery novel is great for young readers, and has a brilliant friendship at its core.
Young, Gifted and Black by Jamia Wilson and Andrea Pippins (8+, non-fiction)
A celebration of the achievements of 52 inspirational Black people, past and present, from homeland abroad. This is an excellent educational tool, as well as something to cherish for life.
Exceptional Men in Black History by Vashti Harrison (8+, non fiction)
Another must have for every child. This book will inspire young readers, while also learning about many Black men in history that have changed the world with their actions, as well as some present day heroes.
High Rise Mystery by Sharna Jackson (9+, fiction)
A British murder mystery with two young detectives, Nik and Norva, who are determined to solve the case. A brilliant book from a masterful author - as you read you can feel the heat of the sweltering summer!
This Book is Anti-Racist by Tiffany Jewell and Aurelia Durand (10+, non-fiction)
An excellent start for educating children on what racism is and how to go about becoming anti-racist. It's a brilliant resource with very powerful illustrations throughout.
Dear Martin by Nic Stone (14+, fiction)
A captivating novel. Justyce is top of his class, dreams set on going to an Ivy League college, but the police don't care about any of that when they put him in cuffs - they just see the colour of his skin. Told with letters to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr as Justyce tries to gather his thoughts, this is one book every teenager should read. The sequel, Dear Justyce, is out later this year.
The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta (14+, fiction)
This incredibly raw debut novel excellently captures internal struggles of growing up and learning to find your voice. Written in verse, this is one that is sure to make you shed a tear.