Algoma U's Black History Month celebration moves online

Algoma University is joining communities around the world to celebrate Black History Month. 

This year's theme is Black History Matters, which focuses on learning about numerous important contributions and achievements of Black Canadians throughout the history of Canada. 

The month-long celebration also provides an opportunity to reflect, acknowledge and recognize the past and present contributions of Black Canadians in many fields such as science, education, public policy, music, and sports, as well as raising awareness of the struggles and injustices of Black people throughout history. 

"The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee, in partnership with ACCANO, are also focusing on self-care for Black students and employees, anti-Black-Racism education, African History resources, and community engagement," Jane Omollo, Algoma University’s equity, diversity, and inclusion officer said in a news release issued today. 

This is the first year the university has celebrated virtually.

The full press release is as follows: 

February is Black History Month, and Algoma University is joining communities around the world in celebrating the important contributions of the Black community. This year’s theme is Black History Matters, focusing on learning about the numerous important contributions and achievements of Black Canadians to the history of Canada. 

This month-long celebration provides an opportunity to reflect, acknowledge and recognize the past and present contributions of Black Canadians in many fields such as science, education, public policy, music, and sports. This series of events also raise awareness of the struggles and injustices of Black people throughout history. 

“This year marks the first time that Algoma University will celebrate Black History Month virtually,” shared Jane Omollo, Algoma University’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer. “The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee, in partnership with ACCANO, are also focusing on self-care for Black students and employees, anti-Black-Racism education, African History resources, and community engagement. Join us virtually as we celebrate Black History Month, and more importantly, work on creating a more equitable and diverse future for all.”

The keynote speaker this year is Professor Cecil Foster, one of Canada’s leading public intellectuals on issues of race, culture, citizenship, and immigration. He will speak on the theme: Black Lives and the Building of Modern Canada: Reflections on the historic role of Black sleeping car porters. 

To register for Dr. Foster’s keynote address, learn about Black History Month and Algoma University’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion efforts, please visit our website. 

Please register for the many free virtual community and university-led events happening throughout the month of February, linked here.