Black history is Alberta’s history. It is Canadian history. Every February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and festivities that honour the legacy of Black people in Canada and their communities. It is also a time to reflect upon and learn from our collective past.
There are many ways for Calgarians to take part in Black History Month in YYC, as several Calgary organizations are hosting events to celebrate Black culture, showcase local talent and examine both Black histories and futures. Here’s a look at some of the talks, performances and events Calgarians can check out throughout February; and no matter where you live, we invite all Canadians to learn more about these communities, and how they continue to help shape Canadian history.
Date: Feb 1st
Time: 6:30 to 9:00
Location: 625 42 Avenue NE Calgary
The Eagle and the Empress invite you all to accept our invitation and spend the evening with us as we meet, greet, network, strategize and enjoy a natural love together. There'll be entertainment in song, highlights of young successful entrepreneurs, a great toast and networking with refreshments.
Date:Â Feb 2nd
Time:Â 6:00 to 11:00
Location: Habebe's Banquet Hall, 2611 37 Avenue NE Calgary
The "Celebration of Black History Month: Rooted in Resilience, Rising in Unity" is a powerful and inspiring event dedicated to honouring the rich history and contributions of the Black community. Join us on a journey through stories of strength rooted in historical significance and witness the rising unity that shapes our collective future. This event is a heartfelt tribute to fostering empowerment and embracing the spirit of diversity and inclusion.
Date:Â Feb 6th
Time:Â 2:00 to 5:00
Location: Central Library, 800 3 Street SE Calgary
Come celebrate Black culture, history, heritage, and achievement in Calgary with CRIEC.
We have two outstanding Keynote speakers, Minister Muhammad Yaseen, Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism, and Dr. Chika Onwuekwe, KC, ICD.D, Vice President, Legal, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary at Trican Well Service Ltd. and Chair of the Black North Initiative Alberta Chapter founded by Wes Hall. We also have an exceptional panel of Black professionals joining us to speak on education, mentorship and empowerment within Calgary's Black community.
Date: Feb 9th & 10th
Time: 11:00 to 7:00
Location: TELUS Convention Centre
The Annual Ethnik Festival of Arts and Culture is the premier, all-inclusive flagship festival of Ethnik Festivals Association. It is part of the celebration of Black History (Excellence) in the Month of February each year. Members of the Afro-Canadian/ Caribbean communities come together to celebrate diversity, and inclusivity and share their vibrant cultural traditions with other communities from across Canada.
Date:Â Feb 10th
Time:Â 1:30 to 5:00
Location: The Plaza Theatre, 1133 Kensington Road NW Calgary
Join us for a special screening of the inspiring film Remember The Titans as we celebrate Black History Month! The event will take place at The Plaza Theatre in Calgary, AB, Canada. Get ready to be moved by this powerful story of unity and perseverance.
Date:Â Feb 16th
Time:Â 5:30 to 8:30
Location: 1721 29 Avenue SW Calgary
Join us on February 16th for a special Black History Event hosted by Black Professionals Canada! Celebrate community building and the benefits of a supportive network with inspiring stories from expert speakers, a vibrant art exhibition, and networking opportunities. Don't miss out on connecting, learning, and celebrating black excellence.
Date:Â Feb 16th
Time:Â 7:00 to 8:00
Location: The Cathedral Church of the Redeemer, 604 1 Street SE Calgary
Join us at The Cathedral Church of the Redeemer in Calgary, AB, Canada for an unforgettable event celebrating Black history. Immerse yourself in the soulful melodies and powerful vocals reminiscent of the legendary Mahailia Jackson. This in-person event promises to be a mesmerizing tribute to a true musical icon.
Date:Â Feb 24th
Time:Â 4:30 pm
Location: Courtyard Marriott Calgary Airport, 2500 48 Avenue NE Calgary
At this Celebration of Excellence, we will be spotlighting Black women who have been 'firsts', 'onlys' and 'trendsetters'. It will be an evening of knowledge-sharing, a time to enjoy dinner and performances from local and young performers and partake in raffle sessions throughout the event.
Date:Â Feb 29th
Time:Â 6:00 pm
Location: University of Calgary, Craigie Hall 119
The African Studies program in collaboration the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (OEDI), the Department of Art & Art History, & the Faculty of Arts Dean Office invites you to delve into the intricate web of Slavery, Mobility, and the Creolized Counter-Knowledge of Resistance as Dr. Charmaine Nelson explores a pivotal historical moment through the lens of an intriguing fugitive slave advertisement from the Quebec Gazette dated May 3, 1767.