Shepton Mallet Prison is set to commemorate Black History Month with a free exhibition throughout October, shedding light on untold stories linked to the prison's history and the Black community. The exhibition is designed to offer visitors a deeper understanding of the struggles and resilience of Black individuals during WWII and beyond.

The Black History Month exhibition features six mini exhibits that explore the often-overlooked stories of Black individuals with connections to Shepton Mallet Prison. The exhibits aim to spark reflection on the experiences of racism and injustice during this period. These stories, though sometimes difficult to hear, offer an important perspective on the prison's complex history and the broader societal challenges faced by the Black community.

In addition to the exhibition, a special event titled 'Evening Behind Bars' will take place on Wednesday 16th October. The event will focus on the experiences of children born to Black GIs and White British women during WWII, often referred to as 'Brown Babies'. Based on Lucy Bland's research, these stories reveal the struggles these children faced growing up in predominantly white British society.

Guest speaker Susann Savidge, Chair of the Somerset African Caribbean Network (SACN), will lead a discussion, sharing insight into the challenges and resilience of these individuals. The evening promises to be both reflective and informative, offering a chance to hear firsthand accounts of life during and after the war.

Tickets for the 'Evening Behind Bars' event are priced at £10, with a 50% discount available for annual pass holders. A complimentary drink will be provided to all attendees.