Black History Month 2024 is here, and this year, the focus is on turning up the volume on black voices and telling the real stories of black heroes — stories of courage, talent, and the unstoppable spirit that has shaped the world we live in today.

This year’s theme ‘Reclaiming the Narrative’ means telling the true, powerful stories that belong to Black history — not just the sad parts, but all the victories, achievements, and amazing heroism too. Take Harriet Tubman, for example. She wasn’t just a brave woman who helped free slaves in the USA through the Underground Railroad; she was also a leader who fought for women’s rights and believed in standing up for justice everywhere. Her story isn’t just about hardship; it’s about being fierce, smart, and unstoppable.

We can’t forget modern-day heroes like Simone Biles, the gymnastics superstar who has more medals than almost anyone else in the sport! Simone isn’t just famous for her agility — she also made people around the world realise how important it is to take care of your mental health. At the Olympics, Simone showed everyone that it’s okay to step back when you need to, reminding us that our mental well-being is just as important as our physical accomplishments. Simone is a true champion, inside and out.

And what about amplifying black voices? It means making sure black stories are heard loud and clear. Think about the inspiring words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose vision of a united society has inspired millions of people throughout the years. But did you know Dr. King wasn’t alone? Activists like Fannie Lou Hamer also used their voices to demand equal rights and stand up against injustice. This month, we remember them all and celebrate the power of speaking up!

And speaking of voices, how about the late Benjamin Zephaniah? He was a poet and political activist whose powerful words continue young people everywhere. His poems speak up for equality, justice, and kindness, and his creativity shows that poetry can be a powerful way to make change.

This month is all about the importance of Black history — learning from it, sharing it, and being proud of it. Rosa Parks‘ act of refusing to give up her bus seat was a small moment with a huge impact, reminding us that small acts of bravery can change history. And artists like Nina Simone used their music to speak out for equality, proving that history is made in many ways — from marches to music with a very important message!

And then there’s our very own Wayne Thompson, the man responsible for bringing some of your favourite Beano characters to life including Beanotown’s caped crusader Bananaman! Growing up in Gloucestershire, Wayne spent a lot of time drawing and studied art at college. After getting a job as a graphic designer and illustrator, he spent his evenings drawing comics and was recruited by DC Thomson to work for The Dandy and highlights his work on the Jak and Todd strips.

“I loved drawing Jak and Todd – the style was my own, and I could bring in all my animation influences,” says Wayne. “Jak was white and Todd was black, but he wasn’t a background character, they were proper co-stars. When I designed Todd, I gave him an afro comb cos I wanted him to have something unique and authentic to his background.”

Now Wayne brings his magic every week to the pages of the Beano, and his advice for any budding cartoonists chasing a similar dream is simple: “Go full steam ahead and just do it. Don’t be disappointed by setbacks, and always keep trying. Just remember it’s a journey and each step takes you closer to where you want to be.”

So this Black History Month, let’s learn, celebrate, and share stories of black brilliance, heroism and innovation and make sure that everyone knows just how incredible these icons are.