For the first-time ever by a local authority, a flag flying ceremony marking South Asian Heritage Month was flown above Barking Town Hall.

The flag-raising took place at 11am on Monday 18 July and marks the beginning of the month-long event, which is now in its third year. The Leader of the Council, Deputy Leader and other Councillors, as well one of the Co-Chairs and Founders of the Month, Jasvir Singh OBE.

South Asian Heritage Month runs from 18 July to 17 August and aims to change the way people connect with South Asian culture and identity in three simple ways - through the celebration of arts, culture and heritage, the commemoration of South Asian history and ultimately through education.

The theme for this year’s event is Journeys of Empire and highlights the sacrifices of all those from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Maldives and Sri Lanka

This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the independence of India, partition, the creation of Pakistan and the 50th anniversary of the expulsion of Ugandan Asians.

Councillor Sade Bright, Cabinet Member for Employment, Skills & Aspiration, said: “We’re pleased to be able to support South Asian Heritage Month. This is about helping people understand the diversity of our country and the sacrifices some people made. 

“Our borough has people from all over the world living here and we’re pleased to be able to celebrate our differences and boast one of the most culturally diverse communities in the capital.”

Donate a flag events are community-led. If you would like to fly a flag at the town hall, visit lbbd.gov.uk/flag-flying for more information.

You can read more about the month here: www.southasianheritage.org.uk

See details of events happening here: https://www.southasianheritage.org.uk/events-information