February is Black History Month, a time when Canadians honour the legacy of Black culture and history.
Niagara College is pleased to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black Canadians and African diasporic peoples, acknowledging their unique lived experiences, their resiliency, and the many challenges and injustices they still face today.
Black History Month reminds us that we should remain open to learning and unlearning so we can continue to do better for people in our communities.
“Black History Month is a time to commemorate Black history, celebrate the achievements of Black Canadians and their communities, and honour the ways Black change makers have shaped Canada’s heritage and identity,” said President Sean Kennedy. “It is an opportunity for all of us at Niagara College to listen, learn, reflect, and discuss as we continue our work towards a more culturally engaged, inclusive and diverse community.”
Throughout February, Niagara College will celebrate Black History Month through events and activities that spark the desire to learn and continue these important conversations year-round.
A Panel Discussion with Ontario’s Poet Laureate Randell Adjei and guest artists Kibra and Alexis Eke:
The power of the arts to express identity and unite Afro-diasporic communities
On February 16 from 1 to 2 p.m. the NC community is invited to join Ontario’s Poet Laureate Randell Adjei, and guest artists Kibra and Alexis Eke, as they reflect on the importance of the arts in maintaining the social identity of Afro-diasporic groups and their own personal connection to their communities.
Adjei, Kibra, and Eke will speak about how their backgrounds and heritage have guided their artistic practice, and how art is a mode for resilience, personal growth and advocacy. Adjei, who spoke at Fall 2021 Convocation and Niagara Day, will share new poetry at the event.
This keynote Black History Month event is hosted in partnership with Niagara College and NCSAC for students and employees to expand their understanding of the lived experiences of Black people from a geographical context.
NC employees and students will receive a link via their NC email to tune in to the webinar via Zoom.
Ask-me-anything (AMA) on Black History in Niagara with local historian Rochelle Bush
On February 23 at 11 a.m., Niagara Region public historian and NC alumna Rochelle Bush (Social Service Worker, 2018) will be live on the @yourncsac Instagram.
Bush is a descendent of a freedom seeker led by Harriet Tubman who escaped slavery through the secret network of safe houses and contacts known as the Underground Railroad. The city of St. Catharines has a rich history as the final terminus on the Underground Railroad.
Bush is also the proprietor/primary guide of Tubman Tours Canada.
Bush’s interactive session on Instagram Live will be an opportunity for NC staff, faculty and students to ask questions and get a local perspective on black history here in Niagara.
Webinar on History of race and racism in Canada by the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI)
On February 17 from 1 to 2 p.m., NC employer partner CCDI (via COE) will offer a free webinar to NC employees looking to expand their knowledge on the history of race relations in Canada.
Registration is required. For details, see the events calendar.
ncLibraries book display and digital resources
ncLibraries has curated a display of books at both campuses by Black authors and topics including Black heritage, culture, history and racism.
They will share digital resources all month on social media with a focus on Black history, and linking to content available through the library website.
One such resource is the Anti-Oppression and Anti-Racism Resource Guide which includes a recording of the 2021 speaker event with the leader of Justice for Black Lives Niagara.
Athletics and Recreation social
Throughout the month, the NC Knights will spotlight Black stories and experiences via social media. They will share resources about Black history in the Niagara Region, as well as readings and facts about Black History Month. Videos will also feature Black student athletes, who will share their thoughts on what Black History Month means to them and its significance.
Follow their social channels @nc_knights on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.