February is Black History Month, a time to honour the contributions, achievements and experiences of Black people in Canada.
The 2023 theme for Black History Month in Canada is “Ours to tell.” This theme represents both an opportunity to engage in open dialogue and a commitment to learning more about the stories Black communities in Canada have to tell about their histories, successes, sacrifices and triumphs.
Throughout Canada, a variety of events and festivities will be held to honour Black History Month. Here are a few ways you can participate this year:
Join a Black History Manitoba event
You can find a variety of local events – including a theatre production, film viewings, a trivia night, an art exhibition, and more – on the Black History Manitoba website.
Learn about Black History Month on the Government of Canada website
Learn how Black History Month came to be recognized in Canada, how notable Black Canadians helped shape Canada, and more on the Government of Canada Black History Month website.
Discover Library and Archive Collections
The UWinnipeg library and archives are great starting places for more information on topics related to slavery, colonialism, war, and identity in a variety of contexts. Explore reading guides on topics such as Black Lives Matter, Colonization, and Race and Racialization. The Archives BIPOC Collections include materials like the Congress of Black Women of Manitoba Inc. fonds – an extensive collection of records and history of Black women in Manitoba.
Attend a talk hosted by the UWinnipeg History Department
Hear UWinnipeg professor Darlene Abreu-Ferreira present on “Black and Female in the Sixteenth Century” on Thursday, February 2 at 4:00 p.m. This in-person event will be held at The University of Winnipeg in Lockhart Hall (Room 1L12).
Attend a presentation on Black youth mentorship and leadership
Join Professor Bukola Salami, Director of Intersections of Gender Signature Area at the Office of Vice President Research and a professor in the Faculty of Nursing at University of Alberta, and Dr. Myra Kandemiri, Senior Research Coordinator for HIPP in the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Nursing and Chemistry Laboratory Instructor at MacEwan University, as they explore strategies that have been used and proven to contribute positively to the educational development of Black students. The presentation, “Black Youth Mentorship and Leadership,” takes place February 8 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. Those interested in attending can contact Alleson Mason at a.mason@uwinnipeg.ca for the Zoom information.
Attend a virtual talk by UWinnipeg’s Dr. Chigbo Arthur Anyaduba
Dr. Chigbo, who teaches African/Black Diaspora literatures and cultures in UWinnipeg’s English Department, will be giving a special presentation for the University of Calgary at 1:00 p.m. on February 15 titled “Black History Month: Constructing Ethics from the Hells of African Genocides.” Register here.
Join the UWinnipeg Student Association’s Black History Celebration Week
Black History Celebration Week, hosted by the UWinnipeg Student Association BIPoC Lounge, is February 6 –10. Events include a movie night on Thursday, February 9 and a Black Culture Celebration Night on Friday, February 10. For locations and other details, visit the UWSA BIPoC website.
