In October, the UK marks Black History Month, an opportunity to recognise black culture, history, and achievements.
Published: Friday, 4th October 2024
Cherwell District Council is celebrating Councillor Dr Chukwudi Okeke, who made local history when he was elected as the council’s first black councillor in 2022 and first black chairman in 2024.
Reflecting on what this achievement means to him, Cllr Okeke said: “It’s an honour of a lifetime to be elected as the first black councillor and Chairman of Cherwell District Council, and it is my privilege to represent the district.”
A strong desire to work with communities to create a healthy society for everyone, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, sexuality or social background, inspired Cllr Okeke to run to join local government.
“Local government shares huge responsibilities in building a cohesive society, and I wanted to be involved in helping to build a community where everyone is valued,” Cllr Okeke elaborated.
It was growing up in Amaokpala, in eastern Nigeria, and watching his parents make a big impact in the community through local politics and education that instilled in Cllr Okeke a dedication to help others.
He fondly remembered: “I must say that my upbringing exposed me to the value of empathy and helped to foster my ambition for a leadership role.”
The journey into local government has been an enjoyable and welcoming experience for Cllr Okeke, who says: “Supportive councillor colleagues and exceptional council officers made it easier for me to fit in well.”
Providing a voice to the black community was essential to Cllr Okeke: “Often in a field of competing views, the voices of minorities are buried at best, and at worst their contributions tend to be ignored or sidelined. Representation in local government is crucial in building a more equal society.
“Our council serves a diverse community, and having a representation that reflects our community will lead to more informed decision-making and ultimately a healthier society.”
Since being elected to the council in 2022, Cllr Okeke has paved the way for further history with the election of Cllr Becky Clarke MBE as the council’s first-ever black female councillor.
Cllr Okeke is proud of this: “Never allow your background to be a barrier to your success, and never believe that certain opportunities are only for certain people. Participation is the key to achieving representation in leadership.”
For Cllr Okeke, Black History Month means celebrating and promoting the best black values, talent and achievements in a supportive and accepting multicultural society. It also gives him the opportunity to reflect on how he has made his mark on the district’s history: “I am so thankful to those who have paved the way for me to be where I am today.”