Launching today (Thursday 18 July), SAHM celebrates the incredible contributions of South Asian communities to Haringey, where the earliest records of their presence here date back to 1801. South Asian nationals have been settling in the UK though for at least four centuries.
This year’s theme is ‘Free to Be Me’ and celebrates the inherent beauty of simply being yourself. People are being encouraged to share their “unique journeys filled with moments” and experiences that have shaped who they are and taught them valuable lessons that have helped them grow.
There are many ways people can choose to celebrate their heritage and express themselves too, including through art, fashion, food, music and writing.
There’s a fantastic programme of activities, talks and walks to celebrate this global event right across the borough, with events occurring in arts venues, cafes, Haringey libraries and lots more community spaces.
On Saturday, you can emboss foil art on South Asian trucks as part of a free craft session with artist Sunbul Akhtar, get a henna tattoo or enjoy a talk on the spice trade in India.
There’s also a SAHM-themed Quilt Club and an interactive ‘Empowering Young Digital Explorers’ storytelling session by local author Reema Jethwa early next week before not one but two blocking printing workshops as well as a talk and walk on Turnpike Lane and South Asian Heritage next weekend (Saturday 27 July 2024 & Sunday 28 July 2024).
August’s highlights include – among others – a ‘Music: Unknown to Known’ gig, a talk on Gandhi’s global influence and piano recitals and talks on Mount Kailish with George Partou (x2).
There will also be an ‘Echoes of India’ photographic exhibition at Marcus Garvey Library throughout SAHM.
You can also check out our suggested reads for SAHM and read our timeline on South Asian heritage in Haringey.
If you are holding an event to mark South Asian Heritage Month and would like to be added to the programme, please use our online form to submit it for the events calendar.
Our listings are updated regularly, so do keep checking back for new events!
Please check with venues in advance of attending events in case of prospective changes to listings and/or their opening times.
