CIVIC rights activist and Baptist minister, The Rev Jesse Jackson, has recorded a speech for broadcast at the launch of Medway’s Black History month celebrations.

Mr Jackson will be heard by revellers at the launch party, taking place from 12pm-4pm at St George’s Centre in Chatham Maritime on Sunday, September 30.

The event line-up includes performances by X factor finalists 4Sure and The Drifters singer Jahson Leigh.

Author Patrick Augustus, whose novel BabyFather was made into a hit BBC series, will also be at the event to talk about the importance of Black History month and Kent’s links with the slave trade.

There will also be performances by Bollywood dancers, African drummers, Chinese and salsa dancers and Lindy Hoppers to get partygoers up on their feet.

Medway’s community services chief, Cllr Howard Doe, said: “The festival gives everyone the chance to celebrate and learn about the diverse cultures and traditions that are part of Medway’s community.

“This year’s festival is particularly poignant as we celebrate the bicentenary of the abolition of British slavery.”

Other events include a New Zealand Maori arts day and a chance to discover the story behind the Capoeira - an amazing fusion of dance, music and martial arts created by African slaves to protect themselves.

An exhibition about Islam will also be held at the St George’s Centre from 8.30am to 6.30pm from Monday, October 15, to Sunday, October 21. For more information call 01634 843666 or visit www.medway.gov.uk/bhm