Niagara College proudly recognized Black History Month with a series of events that engaged students, employees, and the broader NC community in meaningful discussions, and opportunities for reflection and growth. These initiatives reinforced the College’s commitment to celebrating Black culture, supporting Black entrepreneurs, and fostering an inclusive learning environment.
February events recap
CCDI Webinar – Black History Month Panel
On February 4, employees had the opportunity to engage in a thought-provoking webinar that explored the distinction between commemoration and memorialization of Black History Month. The panel emphasized how Black history is not only a remembrance of the past but also an active presence shaping culture, activism, and legacy today.
Winter Pop-Up Market at the Welland Campus on February 20.
Winter Pop-up Market
Hosted at the Welland Campus in partnership with Black Owned 905, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Community Relations and Events and NCSAC, the Winter Pop-Up Market was held on February 20 and featured student and community vendors, offering a platform to celebrate and support Black-owned businesses and student entrepreneurs from across the region.
Black Student Association Black History Month Celebration
The Black Student Association hosted a special gathering on February 21 to commemorate Black History Month, bringing students together at The Armoury (Daniel J. Patterson Campus) to celebrate Black culture, community, and achievements.
The event was a vibrant and engaging celebration that brought students, faculty, and community members together to honour Black history and culture while enjoying food, music, and an opportunity to connect in a meaningful way. Instead of traditional performances, the event focused on interactive games that encouraged teamwork, learning, and fun. Attendees were divided into groups named after influential Black figures–Nelson Mandela, Chinua Achebe, Rosa Parks, and Maya Angelou–and participated in team-based activities, including trivia, musical chairs, and other exciting challenges.
Stanley Acholonu, President of the Black Student Association speaking at the Black History Month Celebration on February 21.
The evening also featured remarks from NC’s Sustainability department, and the Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) department, emphasizing the importance of diversity, sustainability, and community support.
“Black History Month is not just about reflecting on the past; it’s about celebrating the resilience, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals throughout history and today,” said Stanley Acholonu, President of the Black Student Association. “This event was about bringing people together in a joyful and meaningful way, and I’m proud of the sense of community it fostered. Seeing students, faculty and community members engage, learn, and celebrate as one reminded us that Black history is shared history–one that should be honored every day, not just in February.”
Looking ahead
While Black History Month has come to an end, Niagara College continues to honour Black students, staff and community members.
“Beyond Their Years” Documentary Screening : a film produced by the Carnegie Initiative
On March 12, NC is hosting a special screening of the documentary Beyond Their Years – an inspiring film about sports and social justice icons Herb Carnegie and Buck O’Neil – followed by a thoughtful panel discussion. Taking place at 5:30 p.m. in the Yerich Auditorium at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, this free event will highlight the importance of making the world a more inclusive and welcoming place. To learn more and to register, click here.
Community Art Project Unveiling
On March 20, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., the Welland Campus Learning Commons is hosting the unveiling of a community art project co-created by Black students, employees, and local artist Nadine Williams. This initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Decade for People of African Descent and underscores NC’s commitment to representation and creative expression. No registration is required to attend.
‘Words that Heal’ Poetry Slam Experience
Join us on April 10 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in Room N018 at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus for a dynamic slam poetry workshop. Students and employees are invited to immerse themselves in the art of spoken word where they can explore self-expression through rhythm, movement, and storytelling, creating a space for connection and creativity. To register, click here.
Ongoing learning and growth
In December, Niagara College hosted the Black Student Voices Panel, providing a platform for Black students–both domestic and international–to share their unique experiences navigating NC classrooms, hallways, and the Niagara Region. The insights shared during this panel have since informed College practices and resources, leading to meaningful enhancements in EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) efforts:
- EDI training for staff: Employees have access to training modules focused on microaggressions and anti-racism through the EDI team and the University of Western. Anti-Black Racism training will be soon available to all NC employees. Additional learning is also available through CCDI. To learn more, click here.
- IDEA Course Reflection Tool: The IDEA Course Reflection Tool was developed by School of Academic and Liberal Studies Professor Matt Sajin as part of his EDI Catalyst project. The tool is a self-guided resource designed to help instructors integrate inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA) into course planning. Centered on four key areas: teaching plans, assessments, course content, and learning environments, the tool guides instructors through ten interactive questions, offering research-based feedback and practical strategies to enhance IDEA principles in their teaching. Piloting in Winter 2025, the tool aims for a College-wide rollout in Fall 2026.
- Inclusive teaching resources: The Centre of Academic Excellence (CAE) offers a dedicated section on its website providing faculty with strategies and recommendations for fostering an inclusive and supportive classroom environment.
As the College continues to integrate these learnings into its NC culture, it reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that Black voices are heard, celebrated, and empowered, not just during Black History Month, but all year long.
