The theme for Black History Month 2022 is
February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day.
Every year Canadians are invited to honour the legacy of Black Canadians, past and present, during Black History Month. Black History Month exists to remind us of the rich contributions within our society from people of African and Caribbean descent, and of their ongoing struggle for equity and social justice.
As a Catholic education institution, this theme gives us the opportunity to think about how we use our Black History Month materials and resources in the classroom throughout the year. SMCDSB staff will use and promote Black history in classrooms as part of Culturally Responsive and Relevant Pedagogy (CRRP) throughout the year. In addition, a variety of activities in our schools will celebrate the contributions and achievements of Black people in Canada and across the world throughout the month of February.
We encourage all members of the community to celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate and prosperous nation we know today. It is also an opportunity for the majority of Canadians to learn about the experiences of Black Canadians in our society, and the vital role this community has played throughout our shared history. This rich history is a part of all of us like thread in a tapestry that lends colour, structure and beauty to the whole.
While recognizing the contributions and accomplishments of black-Canadians is essential to our intentional work in bringing about real change and inclusivity - this work should not be limited to one month. Let’s not confine our reflection, celebration, and education about Black History to February. Instead, let’s use it as a check-point against which we will continue to measure our growth each year, like an anniversary. Use February as a launching pad to further our understanding of this rich history this February and forever.
For information and resources on Black History Month,
visit the Government of Canada website.
Learn more about influential Black Canadians in the slideshow below. Thank you to @RenMadeThis for the images.