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February marks Black History Month in Canada. This month highlights the contributions and experiences of Afro-Caribbean Black peoples throughout history and in the present moment. A variety of Carleton and Ottawa organizations will be hosting celebratory events during this special month.
The Afro Caribbean Mentorship Program (ACMP) will host their third annual Black History Month Event on February 27. This event will feature keynote addresses, live virtual entertainment, panel discussions and the awarding of certificates of recognition. In support of Black-owned businesses, commercials will be broadcast between events of the program, as a way to recognize and support Black Canadian business. Students can find more information about the event, including how to register on the Student Experience Office’s website.
The Racialized and International Student Experience (RISE) will be hosting a series of events throughout Black History Month, which they are calling Black Futures Month. For more information, please visit their social media @cusarise.
- Jollof Wars: Take some time to celebrate West African tradition and take part in some healthy and delicious competition on February 3 at 4pm EST. This year’s competition will include discussions about the historical and cultural significance of rice and what makes each variety of dish unique in specific countries.
- Recognizing Racial Slurs: Join RISE on February 8 at 4pm EST to discuss the impact of racial slurs in society at large and through personal experience. They will be holding an open conversation where we highlight the root of racial slurs, the process of reclamation, and the effect they still have on the BIPOC community.
- Snatched Hair: A Workshop and Conversation on Beauty in Blackness: In partnership with Women’s Centre at Carleton, Shouts Natural and Beauty Braids and Beyond, this workshop is happening on February 12 from 6pm to 8pm EST. This will be an open hair conversation on black hair, hair politics, and care tips in recognition and celebration of the beauty in Blackness.
- Soul Rhythm: Two Ontario artists will perform and share their experience of using music to channel their inner thoughts and the effect of being a member of the Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour community has on their art form. The event is happening on February 24 at 6pm EST and will feature a Q&A segment.
Students are also welcome to join the following events organized by the Ottawa Public Library:
- Canadian Black History in the Making: Youth Panel: Three remarkable young Black Canadians, Laura Doyle Péan, Awa Hanane Diagne, and Odobie Mcallister are gathering on Zoom on February 8 at 7pm EST to share their experience in leadership in the local and international Black community. For more information on the event, check out the Ottawa Public Library event page.
- Tracking Black Canada: Join the Ottawa Public Library on February 11 at 11am EST for a virtual performance by poet Omari Newton that combines video, music, Slam Poetry, Hip Hop, and stand-up comedy with a focus on the too-often forgotten histories of early Black communities across Canada. For more information and access to the Zoom link check out the OPL website event page.