
Black History Month is important in Canada because it recognizes and celebrates the rich contributions of Black Canadians throughout history. It highlights the achievements, stories, and cultural heritage that have shaped the nation. This month also serves as a vital opportunity to acknowledge and address the systemic racism and discrimination that Black individuals have faced and continue to encounter. By promoting awareness and understanding, Black History Month fosters inclusivity and empathy among all Canadians, encouraging meaningful conversations about equality and justice. Ultimately, it strengthens our collective commitment to creating a society that honors diversity and embraces the shared journey toward belonging.
Here in Calgary, about 3.5% of the people proudly identify as Black. This community shines with a beautiful mix of different shades and backgrounds. In fact, the last Census showed that Canada’s Black population comes from over 300 unique ethnic and cultural roots! While there are many differences, many also share experiences with racial discrimination and a strong desire to belong in a meaningful and respectful way. This journey to belong isn’t just for Black folks – it’s something all Calgarians can connect with as we come together to celebrate Black history!
Black History Month is a fantastic chance to spotlight the amazing achievements and contributions of Black Canadians, while also recognizing the real experiences of systemic racism. Research shows that Black Canadians often face barriers to the same opportunities as others, which is a form of systemic discrimination that affects their lives every single day. The Centre for Newcomers is dedicated to actively fighting against this systemic racism to support Indigenous, Black, and diverse Racialized Peoples.
Below is a list of just some of the events taking place in Calgary throughout the month of February, including "Black is Limitless" right here at CFN on February 22nd, 2025.
CCDI Webinar: Black History Month - Panel

February 4, 2025
Join our webinar to explore the differences between commemorating and memorializing Black History Month. Engage with leaders to discuss how Black history shapes culture, activism, and legacy, and how we can honour it daily.
Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future: Celebrating Black Women in Alberta

February 6, 2025
Join the Women’s Centre of Calgary for an evening with Cheryl Foggo, a renowned playwright, author, and filmmaker. Discover the contributions of Black women in Calgary and Alberta.
AI and Race Speaker Series

February 6, 2025
Join us for an insightful discussion as Calvin Lawrence dive into the hidden truths of how AI is disproportionately impacting communities of colour, exposing the biases and systemic flaws embedded in the technology that shape our daily lives.
Annual Black History Month Dinner

February 7, 2025
Join us at Heritage Park for the Annual Black History Month Dinner, celebrating Black excellence with music, dance, and art. Enjoy a 3-course meal, live auction, and exciting prizes, while supporting the Calgary Black Chambers Scholarship Fund.
Re-presenting the Lives and Language of Black Cowboys

February 9, 2025
Discover the rich Black history of the Canadian prairies with Bertrand Bickersteth, who will share his research on Black Cowboys in Alberta and its influence on his poetry. Join us for an insightful talk with the Chinook Country Historical Society.
Black History Month Storytime with Cheryl Foggo and Miranda Martini

February 9, 2025
Join us for a special Black History Month Storytime for a reading of Howdy, I’m John Ware and other stories, songs, and finger plays the whole family can enjoy. Enjoy a Q and A about John Ware with Cheryl Foggo and a musical performance by Miranda Martini.
Black History Month Documentary Review of Deeply Rooted

February 12, 2025
Join hosts Hugh Baker and Efua Ukuwelah for a screening of the 23-minute documentary Deeply Rooted, exploring Cazhhmere’s experience as a seventh-generation Black Canadian.
Black History Month Storytime with Wakefield Brewster

February 15, 2025
Join us for a special Black History Month Storytime with Calgary's 2022-24 Poet Laureate, Wakefield Brewster. Enjoy familiar stories followed by a performance of Wakefield's spoken word poetry that will inspire and motivate all ages
Ethnik Festival of Arts & Culture

February 21, 2025
Join us for the Annual Ethnik Festival of Arts and Culture, a two-day celebration of Black History and Excellence. Experience the vibrant cultural heritage of Afro-Canadian and Caribbean communities through art, music, and performances by local and international artists.
Black is Limitless

Join the Centre for Newcomers for an inspiring afternoon filled with engaging community activities, vibrant cultural experiences, and a showcase of talented local vendors. This event highlights the richness of Black heritage and innovation, bringing together people of all backgrounds to honour and uplift the community.
Black History Month: Celebrating Black Culture at MRU

February 27, 2025
Join our EDI Conversations that Matter events, part of MRU’s strategy for inclusive community engagement. This series, running throughout the academic year, aims to develop a comprehensive, action-oriented Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) framework.
Mobilizing For Change: Addressing Anti-Black Racism

February 27 - 28, 2025
Join us on Thursday, February 27 and Friday, February 28, 2025, at the University of Calgary, MacEwan Conference & Event Centre, for two days of impactful discussions, artistic expression, and networking opportunities.
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