Gloucestershire Community Rail Partnership (CRP) has launched a Celebratory Black History Map to promote cultural understanding and active lifestyles in Gloucestershire.

The map has been created by the team at Black Ark Media, an organisation dedicated to educating people about Black History, and aims to deepen the understanding of both ‘British’ and ‘Black British’ history.

The map serves as a guide to discovering the diverse contributions of Black Britons to art, education, and culture. It highlights walking routes and active rail and sustainable travel experience radiating from Gloucestershire’s nine railway stations, leading to a series of significant Black History sites.

Going beyond historical significance, the map has been designed to encourage individuals to explore the outdoors, adopt healthy habits, and forge connections with their community through rail and other forms of active travel, such as walking, wheeling, and cycling.

A spokesperson for Gloucestershire CRP said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Black Ark Media on the launch of the celebratory Black History map. This project perfectly aligns with our mission to connect communities through rail and active travel, promote cultural understanding, and encourage active lifestyles.

“The map will serve as a valuable resource for residents and visitors, allowing them to explore the rich history of Gloucestershire while enjoying the benefits of walking and engaging with their surroundings. We are grateful for the support of Active Gloucestershire in making this initiative possible and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our community.”

Derrick McLean, co-founder of Black Art Media, said: “We are excited to introduce this innovative Black History map, which not only celebrates our shared heritage, but also encourages people to explore their surroundings and adopt active lifestyles. Through this map, we hope to foster cultural understanding, celebrate diversity, and create a sense of unity within the Gloucestershire community.”

Richard Fishlock of Active Gloucestershire said: “As long-time supporters of Gloucestershire CRP and Black History Month, we’re extremely proud and excited to support this project. Combining the many benefits of walking around our neighbourhoods with the chance to learn about Gloucestershire’s rich cultural heritage is a genius idea from Black Ark Media, and we look forward to promoting the routes and trying them out ourselves.”

Download the map in light mode and dark mode.

Keep up to date with future news, projects, and events from Gloucestershire CRP via their website.