John Lewis, in collaboration with the University of Leicester, has launched an exhibition that highlights the significant contributions of black individuals to the university and the wider Leicester area. Shoppers can engage with various elements of the exhibition, including window displays, indoor installations, and live performances, all designed to educate and inspire.

Notable storyboards are prominently featured in the first-floor windows of the John Lewis store. These informative displays showcase the impactful roles played by black students and staff throughout the university’s history. Among the stories highlighted are those of law students who have been instrumental in supporting victims of the Windrush scandal in their quest for justice and compensation. The exhibition also commemorates the appointment of Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock, who made history in 2023 as the university’s first ethnic minority chancellor.

The Place to Eat restaurant within John Lewis will also contribute to the festivities by displaying posters that celebrate black culinary innovators, in partnership with the university’s catering provider, LSP.

On October 5, visitors to the shopping centre can enjoy live performances by the university’s gospel choir, The Revival, from noon until 3pm, adding a musical dimension to the celebration.

Humaa Noori, equity, diversity, and inclusion projects manager at the University of Leicester, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “This collaboration is a fantastic opportunity for the university to showcase its black history to a wider audience in the heart of Leicester. We’re proud to be able to champion the contributions of black students and staff from the university in this way.”

In addition to the university’s efforts, John Lewis is hosting its own series of events for Black History Month. These include performances by the EAGA Gospel Choir and saxophonist Marcus Joseph, as well as exhibitions from Serendipity Arts. The department store is also offering craft sessions led by Leicester Libraries and pop-up events focusing on make-up, skincare, and hair care.

Vaishali Solanki, brand experience manager at John Lewis Leicester, shared her excitement about the initiative: “We’re excited to be able to help the stories from the university’s rich history of Black heritage reach a much wider audience, and we hope it resonates with our customers, fostering a sense of community and connection.”

This collaborative effort between John Lewis and the University of Leicester not only highlights the achievements of black trailblazers but also fosters a sense of community engagement and awareness in the heart of Leicester.