Wednesday is the start of Black History Month
Posted Feb 1, 2023 12:53:00 PM.
Wednesday is the first day of February, which also marks the start of Black History Month in Canada.
There are events planned throughout Waterloo Region over the next several weeks.
The University of Waterloo is holding numerous lectures and book launches. On Wed. Feb. 1, UW is also hosting a virtual conference, which will highlight Black excellence in science, technology, engineering, as well as medicine and health.
Then on Sun. Feb. 5, the Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region will hold its Black History Month launch at the Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum in Kitchener.
It runs from 11:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. and will feature Black artists, authors, musicians and entrepreneurs. Interactive workshops and presentations will also be part of the day.
The event is free, but you are asked to register by clicking here.
Black History Month was first celebrated in Canada in 1996.
Later this month, The City of Kitchener will host a fireside chat with local Black leaders and allies to inspire young, racialized residents to consider a career in politics. It will take place in the rotunda at city hall from 4 until 6 p.m. on Feb. 28.
The city is also calling its celebration — Black Heritage Month.
“Black heritage is Canadian heritage. A deeper understanding of Black heritage helps us appreciate the immense contributions Black people have made to Canada and the global community and provides insight into how best to address the systemic and persistent inequities Black communities have historically faced.” Mayor Berry Vrbanovic, said in a statement.
“Please join me, and all of Kitchener City Council, in honouring, celebrating, and engaging with the perseverance, strength and rich heritage of African, Caribbean and Black members of our community.” he added.
REGISTRATION is now OPEN! Join us on SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5th from 11:30am-5pm for a day of music, food, Black history, artists and performances to launch Black History Month in Waterloo Region! https://t.co/Gty1xa87mA pic.twitter.com/YLGiKBGZ64
— Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region (@CCAWR) January 9, 2023
