Every September, besea.n invites you to enjoy a month-long, collaborative programme of events, dedicated to East and South East Asian heritage, culture, history and solidarity. It’s a chance to celebrate, acknowledge and learn about the incredible ways in which our communities have helped shape the UK and respond to its changing tides, as well as reaffirm or create community bonds and movements.

Goals:

• Nationwide reach of events and communications to support new and existing communities for ESEA people

• Raise awareness about the activities and challenges of ESEA communities in the UK

• Raise funds for groups and organisations working with and for ESEA communities

• Establish meaningful connections across different groups and movements to promote solidarity and support that goes beyond a single month and beyond borders.

While ultimately, ESEA Heritage Month is a celebration of our communities — their cultures, histories and futures — it does not shy away from the messiness and the challenges of community organising. We recognise that community groups are often working within complex limitations and with limited access to funds, during times of climate breakdown and political turmoil.

We believe that community members have the power and responsibility to support each other in accountability, resource and knowledge sharing as we continue to develop new ways of growing and organising together.