February is Black History Month, and across Manitoba, organizations are celebrating with educational programs, community events, and special activities.
This year’s theme is “Rooted in Legacy – Honouring a century of Black History, 45 years strong in Manitoba.
45 Years of Growth and Change
Rhonda Thompson Wilson, treasurer of Black History Manitoba, says this year marks the organization’s 45th anniversary, and with it comes noticeable change in the community.
“It warms our heart to be able to know that the knowledge transfer is happening, whether we’re doing it or other organizations are doing it,” said Thompson Wilson. “And we just love to see it, and we celebrate everybody else’s achievements and celebrations as well.”
The Importance of Education
Thompson Wilson says when her family arrived in Winnipeg, Black history and the contributions of Black Canadians were rarely reflected in classrooms. She notes many people were unaware that Black Canadians have been part of the country’s history since the early 1600s.
“Now we see a lot more Black educators in the system. We also have some great and innovative teachers who are taking the steps on their own outside the official curriculum to find the information for their students,” said Thompson Wilson. “And I think that the student population and the demographic thereof is changing as well, and these children want to know the information.”
Opening Ceremony and Key Events
The official opening ceremony and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial service will take place on Sunday, Feb. 1, at 6 p.m. at New Anointing Christian Fellowship Church, 1425 Manitoba Ave.
“This is a free event open to everyone,” said Wilson Thompson. “ASL and language services will be provided upon request.”
Several other events have been planned throughout the month including, The Fabric of Our Being exhibit at the Manitoba Museum, the Pan African Flag raising on Monday, Feb. 2 and a Black History Month rall on Friday, Feb. 6.
The festivities will come to a close on Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Black History Manitoba awards banquet from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Norwood Hotel & Business Centre.
A gospel concert has also been planned for March.
For a full list of events happening throughout Black History Month, visit Black History Manitoba’s website.
