Black History Month picture downloaded
February marks black history month, a time to reflect on the achievements and struggles of black people across the nation. Museums, schools and communities will start to celebrate black history, education, and culture.
The first black history month was recognized in Canada in 1995, highlighting the impacts of black communities in shaping Canada’s cultural, social, and economic landscape.
XFM spoke to Londoners about what black history means to them; Lash Payne says, “For me, Black History Month is about resilience and pride.” “We celebrate our ancestors achievements while continuing to push for justice and opportunities today, I am excited to attend upcoming events and see our culture celebrated.
Mackayla Heald, a second-year nursing student from Western University, says, “Black history is not just a month event; it’s our ancestors lived reality.” “It’s about acknowledging their contributions every day and ensuring their voices are heard everywhere; I can’t wait to attend those film screenings; I go to yearly with my family,” she added.
Fanshawe College launches its twenty-eight days of action against Anti-Black Racism to celebrate black history and inform and take action to tackle racism in the community and the nation.
Joseph Pazzano, director of equity, diversity, and inclusion, says, “I think Black History Month is a time for us to reflect on the history of black Canadians who have contributed to the country, but it is also a time to acknowledge that systematic racism is on these lands.”
It is a good thing that educational institutions are also expanding black history month, ensuring students learn about historical figures. As we continue to celebrate black history month, Canadians are encouraged to engage in meaningful conversations, support black-owned businesses, and participate in events celebrating black communities’ resilience and achievements.
Here is a list of things to do for Black History Month
Black History Month Family celebration: Saturday, Feb.8, 10 A.M. to 1 P.M. at London Public Library, central branch
Early black settlements in Oxford County: Monday, Feb. 10, at 2 P.M. at Oxford County Library’s Ingersoll branch
Black History Slam: Tuesday, Feb. 13, 5:30 to 7:30 P.M. at Museum London
4th Annual Essence and Culture Awards: Saturday, Feb. 16, 5 P.M. at Wolf Performance Hall
Discover your past: Researching Canada’s black settlers: Thursday, Feb. 20, 1:30 P.M. or 6:30 P.M. at Oxford County Library’s Tillsonburg branch
Black History Month gospel concert: Friday, Feb. 21, 7:30 P.M. at St. Paul’s Cathedral
Black History Month 2025 closing: Saturday, Feb. 22, 1:30 P.M. to 5 P.M. at Wolf Performance Hall
Food festival: Saturday, Feb. 22, 5 P.M. at the Carrefour Communautaire Francophone de London, 920 Huron St.
Black Heritage: Our Past, Our Present, Our Future; Wednesday, Feb. 26, 5:30 P.M. at the Canadian Club of London
The ebony ball: Friday, Feb. 28, 7 to 11:30 P.M.
