Celebrate Black History Month with Canadian universities

Universities across the country are celebrating the achievements and contributions of Black Canadians during the month of February. Find out what your university has planned and take part!

MacEwan explores forgotten histories and present challenges

In Edmonton, Alberta, the MacEwan University community will be shedding light on the contributions of Black Canadians through art, storytelling, conversations and cultural narratives. Their kick-off events explore the often-forgotten histories of early Black communities in Canada and how Blackness impacts aspiring entrepreneurs, storytellers and creators of all kinds.

McGill dishes out ‘soul food’ and discusses Black experiences with research and the arts

At McGill University in Montreal, Quebec, students and staff can tune in to events highlighting the Black community’s contributions to science, as well as decolonial approaches to research. Black artists will share their experiences navigating Montreal’s cultural scenes and members of the university’s Black community can sign up for a ‘Soul Food Box’ lunch of delicious African and Caribbean food.

York hosts panel series on Black health and wellness

This month, students, scholars and community members in Toronto can participate in York University’s series of panels on the health and wellness of Black Canadians. Topics include Black knowledge and wellness, health among youth, the connection between health and disability and more.

UQO tackles cancel culture and the role of Black women

The Université du Québec en Outaouais is hosting three virtual sessions, led by experts, which address some of the largest social phenomena today, including cancel culture and academic freedom and the role of Black women in Black history. Other activities include a special library exhibition, an online Afro-Caribbean style Zumba class and the results of a study on mental health in the Black community.

U of T talks AI and bias, and celebrates Black Canadians through art and film

At the University of Toronto, assistant professor Akwasi Owusu-Bempah kicked off Black History Month with a discussion on establishing safe practices for creating inclusive spaces.  Other sessions they’re hosting this month include a conversation on artificial intelligence and bias, a virtual tour of art of the African Diaspora and the film launch of Because She Cares, which tells the stories of African immigrant women living with HIV.