Black History is every month: A love Letter to the African, Caribbean and Black Community

School of Social Work’s Black History Committee Presents:

Black History is every month: A love Letter to the African, Caribbean and Black Community.

Date: March 19th, 2024

Dinner: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Event Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Location: Richcraft Hall, Carleton University

This event emphasizes Black History as an integral part of Canadian History, encouraging continuous learning and celebration throughout the year beyond the confines of Black History Month, which is held in February. This year’s celebration centres wellness, uplift, gratitude, and resilience within the ACB community.

Highlights of the evening will include exploring the strengths, challenges, and triumphs of the ACB community through various engaging activities such as food, cultural understanding, recognition, music, storytelling, and artistic expressions. We are particularly excited about the special performances, panel conversation, dynamic keynote presentation from CEO of Francis Psychotherapy and Consulting Services and esteemed social worker, Roxanne Francis. The event will be hosted by Nana aba Duncan, Carleton University Associate Professor and Carty Chair in Journalism, Diversity, and Inclusion Studies.

Event Program

Event Biographies

Keynote Speaker:  Roxanne Francis, MSW; RSW & CEO of Francis Psychotherapy

Roxanne Francis

Roxanne Francis is a trained psychotherapist and group practice owner with more than 15 years of experience in the mental health field. She started her journey as a social worker and social justice warrior. Now, as the CEO of Francis Psychotherapy, Roxanne is an industry leader who knows how to use her skills and keep it real at the same time. Organizations benefit from her straightforward and actionable advice.

As the CEO of Francis Psychotherapy and Consulting Services, Roxanne supports the leadership teams at forward-thinking corporations and organizations to care for the mental health of their staff. Leaders learn how to foster an environment that supports mental wellness. As a skilled expert on Anti-Black Racism and Racial Trauma, Roxanne is an asset to companies and nonprofits looking to respond proactively to issues of racial diversity and inclusion. Along with consulting on structural and policy changes for more equitable workplaces.

Event Host: Nana Aba Duncan, Associate Professor; School of Journalism and Communication Studies

Nana aba Duncan

Nana aba Duncan has been reshaping journalism since she first entered the industry.

Ghanaian-born and Canadian-raised, Nana aba realized the power of stories—and who gets to tell them—while completing her Masters of Journalism at Western University. After graduation, her career began in 2004 as the Journalists For Human Rights country director for Ghana.

As Carleton University’s inaugural Carty Chair in Journalism, Diversity and Inclusion Studies, Nana aba is working to reshape the long-accepted basics of journalism to allow for more sensitive and inclusive reporting and reporters. In her new Journalism and Belonging (JOUR 3401) course, she aims to help students discover how to be more inclusive journalists, report on their communities and other communities, and learn how bias impacts editorial decisions and career paths.

Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard

The Honourable Wanda Thomas Bernard, PhD, C.M., O.N.S.
Senator – Nova Scotia (East Preston)

 In November 2016, Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard became the first African Nova Scotian woman to be appointed to the Senate of Canada. She proudly holds her position in the Red Chamber representing the province of Nova Scotia and her hometown of East Preston while championing issues impacting African Canadians nationally in her work. She is the liaison of the Progressive Senate Group.

Throughout her social work career, Senator Bernard has maintained a deep dedication to social justice and racial justice. Based on this work and perseverance she was awarded the Order of Canada in 2005, and the Order of Nova Scotia in 2014. After practicing frontline social work in Nova Scotia and founding the Association of Black Social Workers in 1979, Senator Bernard became a professor at the Dalhousie School of Social Work in 1990 where she subsequently held the position of Director for 10 years. During her time at Dalhousie, Senator Bernard developed a curriculum for the ‘Africentric Social Work’ course. In 2016, she was appointed Special Advisor on Diversity and Inclusiveness at Dalhousie University and is the first African Nova Scotian to hold a tenure track position. In 2017, Senator Bernard was the first African Canadian to be appointed Professor Emeritus in the School of Social Work (SSW) at Dalhousie University; the first woman within the SSW to achieve this appointment. In recognition of her work to advance diversity and inclusion through leadership, activism, research and community efforts, Senator Bernard was awarded the Frank McKenna Award for Leadership in Public Policy in 2021.

Senator Bernard has continued to enact social justice and fight for racial justice in the Senate. Senator Bernard is the Deputy Chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights and she is a member of the Senate Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology. Senator Bernard is proud to be a member of the African Canadian Senate Group.

Event Panelists:

Clarissa Arthur

Clarissa Arthur- Author and Executive Director

A young mother at the age of 17, Clarissa has never let much get in the way of her goals. With over 20 years of experience in the social service sector, Clarissa is currently the Executive Director of the Education Foundation of Ottawa (EFO), which exists to reduce economic barriers for students within the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board.

Clarissa was named one of 2022’s 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women and is especially proud of her work in the Ottawa community as Chair of the Ottawa Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Task Group. Most recently, she has co-authored The Gratitude Effect Journal with Karen Jolicoeur, with the hopes of inspiring others to live the life that they deserve.

Jamila Ahmed

Jamila Ahmed- Equity Consultant and Therapist

Jamila is a mother, registered social worker, therapist, diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism consultant, coach, and facilitator. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in social work. In Ottawa, Jamila has worked in various sectors, such as immigration and settlement, gerontology, supportive housing, child welfare, education, mental health, community development, and organizational development and change culture. Jamila believes that humans thrive when they have opportunities and are supported; thereby, she draws from her ancestral principle that emphasizes the importance of community and shared humanity. Jamila utilizes an Africentric paradigm, anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and trauma-informed lens while working with individuals, groups, and organizations for a more holistic practice and outcome.

Noah Inniss

Noah Inniss- Parchment- Community Builder

Noah graduated from Carleton University’s School of Social Work in 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in social work, where he developed a deep understanding of social justice principles and a passion for creating positive change. Building on this foundation, Noah has dedicated his career to building, facilitating, and managing programs for 2SLGBTQ+ organizations both in Ontario and nationally across Canada. His work has been instrumental in providing essential support and resources to individuals within these communities, helping to foster inclusivity and empowerment. During the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Noah was a front-line support worker in trans health care in Ottawa, ensuring trans and gender diverse communities had access to the resources and support during these changing times.

Noah’s dedication to community advocacy extends beyond his professional roles. He currently serves as a community member on the regional planning table for trans health in the Champlain region, where he actively contributes his expertise and insights to shape the landscape of trans and gender diverse care in the region

A central focus of Noah’s work is his passion for building capacity within Black communities to support trans and gender-diverse peoples. He firmly believes in the importance of recognizing and honoring the longstanding presence of trans and gender-diverse individuals within Black communities throughout history. By fostering understanding and awareness Noah strives to create safer and more inclusive spaces where all Black people can feel valued and respected.

Adrienne Coddett

Adrienne Coddett- Community Advocate and High School Educator

Adrienne Coddett is a Black community advocate and high school educator. Her organization, 3Dreads and a Baldhead/BeMoreCommUNITY (founded in 2000), provides opportunities for people in Black communities to transform their lives by maximizing their physical, mental, spiritual, and economic potential.

Adrienne is also well known in Ottawa for her work with Black youth through the Ottawa Carleton District School Board’s Black Youth Forum (BYF) course and as one of the five co-hosts of Black on Black, Ottawa’s weekly connection to African and Caribbean communities, which broadcasts every Saturday morning 11am – noon on the University of Ottawa’s radio station, CHUO 89.1 FM.

Black Ottawa Scene:

Godwin Ifedi

Godwin Ifedi Is Editor and Publisher of Black Ottawa Scene, a monthly online volunteer driven news magazine with a focus on Canadians of African descent.

Godwin has been a Settlement Counsellor with the Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO) since 2013, supporting and assisting refugees and newcomers to Canada. He is the immediate Past President of Black History Ottawa, a registered Canadian charitable organization dedicated to promoting the heritage and contribution of people of African descent to Canada. He is also a former President of the Nigerian-Canadian Association of Ottawa. Godwin also served for several years on the Community and Police Action Committee (COMPAC), which addressed problems between the Ottawa Police Service and the city’s diverse populations.

In 2014, he was appointed by the Government of Ontario as a member of the Council of the Ontario College of Teachers, where he served as Chair of the Editorial Board of their journal: Professionally Speaking. He had also served a member of the Council of the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario. In addition, he had served on the Boards of Directors of the Ottawa Social Planning Council and the Tanglewood-Hillsdale Community Association. Godwin is the recipient of a Certificate of Recognition in 2001 from the Government of Canada for outstanding volunteer work, and the 2011 United Way Community Builder award. His name is inscribed on the City of Ottawa Wall of Inspiration, for excellence in volunteer work, community outreach and civic engagement. Godwin holds a Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, and a Master’s degree in Health Administration from the University of Ottawa, and had worked variously as Senior Occupational Therapist and Unit Manager in various health institutions in Canada and Africa.

Godwin is a family man with three adult children and three grandchildren.

Jaku Konbit:

Kenneth Campbell

Ken Campbell is the esteemed President of Jaku Konbit, a prominent African-centered community and family-oriented organization based in Ottawa. Established in 2000, Jaku Konbit has emerged as one of Ottawa’s most dynamic and proactive community-based entities under his visionary leadership.

At the forefront of Jaku Konbit’s initiatives are the annual Ottawa Community Kwanzaa Celebration, a hallmark event, and Ontario’s largest African-centered, non-religious cultural celebration. Mr. Campbell’s commitment to excellence has propelled the organization to new heights, fostering the development of various impactful programs.

Among these initiatives is the “Greatness is Within Me Summer Camp,” a transformative experience designed to empower Black youth and families. Additionally, Jaku Konbit hosts the “Black Star Tutoring” program to provide educational support and guidance. Mr. Campbell’s visionary approach extends to the “Black Youth Entrepreneurs and Innovation” program, fostering creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.

Recognizing the importance of intergenerational connections, Jaku Konbit, under Mr. Campbell’s guidance, has introduced the “Call Me! Let’s Chat” senior program, promoting dialogue and support within the community. Furthermore, the organization has launched the “Provincial Youth Outreach Program,” creating opportunities for Black youth to engage actively and meaningfully in the Ottawa community.

Through these diverse initiatives, Mr. Campbell and Jaku Konbit are dedicated to building self-esteem, expanding horizons, and equipping Black youth and families with the skills and knowledge necessary to be influential contributors to the vibrant tapestry of the Ottawa community. With a focus on empowerment and community building, Mr. Campbell’s leadership continues to make a lasting and positive impact on the lives of those involved with Jaku Konbit.

Performers:

John Kofi Dapaah

John Kofi Dapaah – Pianist

John Kofi Dapaah is an emerging pianist crossing the boundaries of the classical and jazz world. Praised for his “charisma, rhythmic drive and communicative power”, John has performed in recitals and concerts in Japan, Austria, and throughout Canada. He has played in recital series such as the Ottawa International Chamberfest, Jugend am Klavier and Music and Beyond in venues such as Dominion Chalmers, National Arts Centre, and Rideau Hall. John made his orchestral debut with the Gatineau Conservatory Orchestra playing Mozart’s Piano Concerto no. 23. Since then, he has appeared with a number of orchestras including the National Arts Centre Orchestra, Georgian Bay Symphony and the Ottawa Pops Orchestra.

His playing has been broadcasted on TV and radio programs such as the CTV and CBC radio. John has released 2 albums to date – his debut solo album, Reflections (featuring works by Schubert, Schumann, Chopin, and Bach/Petri) and a jazz Christmas album Have Yourself a Jazzy Little Christmas with his trio along vocalists Roxanne Goodman and Michael Curtis Hanna. John concertizes throughout Canada and runs Studio Sessions, a concert series featuring emerging and established artists.

Michael Hanna

Michael Hanna

A Native of Detroit Michigan, Michael Curtis Hanna enjoys performing a variety of musical styles but finds home in Jazz, Gospel, and Blues. Singing in Chorales, Church Choirs, acapella groups and solo performances are among the favored presentations.

Michael can be heard on recorded compositions with many noted Canadian musicians and on projects presented in the United States.

He has several up-and-coming performances with the Musicians Performance Trust Fund and on Stages throughout the Ottawa Region.

Jamaal Amir Akbari

Jamaal Amir Akbari

Jamaal Amir Akbari (Jaa), is a principled artist who lives wholeheartedly. His love for performance, mentorship and curation nourishes his existence. Deep contemplation and writing is his profession, and he forges this path daily by inviting hearts to reflect and nurture their own talents. With his art, Jaa hopes his gifts awaken the character of the listener they see for their(self). In action, presence, and silence. Jaa is a living artist, contributing his poetic gifts to the world while he has the chance.

Nambi

Nambi
Tenacious and achingly pure, singer-songwriter NAMBI is a powerhouse of acoustic soul.

Weaving together Ugandan & African roots music, RnB, Neo-Soul, Folk, and Reggae to form her own version of RnB street folk, NAMBI’s music is a source of personal and communal revelation.

After sharing stages with Jack Johnson, Tash Sultana, and Vieux Farka Touré, tours of East Africa and the UK, features on CBC and the BBC, and sold-out performances at Ottawa’s National Arts Centre (2018, 2020) and Ottawa Bluesfest Main Stage (2021), NAMBI has become a sought-after and much-admired performer at home and abroad. NAMBI is currently recording her third studio album ALLOFWE: The End of a Trilogy, set to be released in 2024.

DJ Velvet

DJ Velvet

Canadian-born Velvet has quickly established herself as one of the most sought-after international DJs in the Nation’s Capital. Her creativity stems from her Haitian Caribbean background, which has shaped her ability to blend sounds and genres, from Hip-Hop and R&B to Afro-Beat, Amapiano, house music, and beyond.

Currently the Main DJ for 4Wheelies Roller-skating Center and in-house DJ for Ottawa Warehouse restaurant, she has mixed for different artists, including JUNO award-winner Charmaine, rising star Lia Kloud, and Afro-Caribbean singer Jessie Simmons. She has also spun at festivals Riverfest Elora, RBC Bluesfest, and Cranium Festival.

In early 2023, she embarked on a festival tour with JUNO award-winning rapper Charmaine, spinning at SXSW (Austin) and New Colossus (NYC). Velvet’s strides have not gone unnoticed, as she was the winner of DJ of The Year at the inaugural Recognize Awards by Cranium Arts Project. Her ability to maneuver between different genres and her fiery personality provides her audience with an unforgettable experience.

Memorial

Tonight’s event is dedicated to Ewart Walters and Jay Williams, two individuals whose presence deeply enriched our lives and communities.

Ewart Walters: 1940- 2023

Ewart Walters

Ewart Walters was a trailblazing figure in Canadian journalism and a dedicated advocate for Black communities in the Ottawa-Gatineau region. With a career spanning over several decades, Walters has left an indelible mark on both the field of journalism and community activism.

Walters’ journey in journalism began with a Bachelor of Journalism degree from Carleton University in 1968, where he demonstrated his exceptional talent and commitment to the craft. His leadership qualities were evident early on when he served as the Editor-in-Chief of The Carleton during the 1965-66 academic year, making history as the first Black editor of this prestigious weekly student newspaper. He later went on to complete his Master’s degree in 1979.

Throughout his career, Walters consistently strived for excellence, earning triple-gold medallist prize winner status at the Seprod Awards for Excellence in Journalism, a testament to his outstanding achievements in the field.

One of Walters’ most significant contributions was his role as editor of the Spectrum Newspaper, Ottawa’s first Black-community publication, where he served for nearly three decades. Under his guidance, the Spectrum became a vital platform for amplifying the voices and stories of Ottawa’s Black community, addressing important issues, and fostering a sense of unity and empowerment.

In addition to his journalistic endeavors, Walters also dedicated himself to community advocacy and engagement. His tenure at the Jamaican High Commission allowed him to play a central role in advocating for the interests of Black communities and fostering connections within the Ottawa-Gatineau region.

Walters’ impact extends far beyond the realm of journalism. He tirelessly worked to uplift and empower Black communities, serving as a beacon of inspiration and leadership. His legacy reminds us of the importance of representation, advocacy, and community engagement in creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

Jay Williams: 1984- 2023

Jay Williams

Jay Williams was a distinguished educator, dynamic speaker, and dedicated education consultant who brought over a decade of experience to his impactful work. With a passion for fostering inclusivity and equity in education, Williams was a leading voice on a range of critical topics, including race, Black masculinity, and culturally responsive pedagogy.

As an educator and speaker, Williams drew on his rich experiences to engage audiences on issues that matter most, from Hip Hop as Critical, Relevant, Responsive Pedagogy to Culturally Relevant and Responsive Pedagogy. He shared insights from his personal journey, navigating the intersections of race, masculinity, and education, offering invaluable perspectives and strategies for addressing systemic inequities.

Serving as an Equity Consultant for the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement, Williams held vital portfolios in Equity, Anti-racism, Anti-oppression, the Black Student Success and Excellence initiative, and Model Schools for Inner Cities. In this role, he was committed to driving meaningful change and creating environments where all students can thrive.

Williams amplified his message of empowerment and social justice through his social media presence, offering a unique perspective on race, culture, education, and societal issues. With a particular focus on the experiences of Black males, he explored themes of masculinity, vulnerability, and manhood, sparking crucial conversations and inspiring action.

Williams believed deeply in the power of role modeling to effect positive change, striving to inspire and empower those within the field of education and society as a whole. His dedication to equity, inclusivity, and social justice will continue as a guiding light, illuminating pathways toward a more just and equitable future for all.

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