February is Black History Month
During Black History Month, people in Canada celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians and their communities who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous nation it is today.
The 2023 theme for Black History Month is: “Ours to tell."
“This theme represents both an opportunity to engage in open dialogue and a commitment to learning more about the stories Black communities in Canada have to tell about their histories, successes, sacrifices and triumphs.”
Explore Heritage Canada’s website for resources on Black History Month, including Significant Events in Black History in Canada, Noteworthy Figures, and Organizations and Educational Resources on the History of Black Communities in Canada.
Check out our display in the foyer of the Library featuring books on the history of the Black community in Canada and books by contemporary Black Canadian authors. Discover your next favourite author!
Explore a selection of the Library’s eBooks collection highlighting Blacks in Canada.
Looking for movies about Black Canadian communities and lives? Canada's National Film Board (NFB) features Black Communities in Canada: A Rich History, a 30-film playlist intended to "portray the multi-layered lives of Canada's diverse Black communities."
Curio.ca has a selection of teacher resource guides, videos and audio featuring Black History in Canada. This series celebrates the achievements of Black Canadians and reflects on the stories, experiences and accomplishments of Canada's Black community.
The National Film Board and Curio.ca are available from the Library’s video databases.
CBC Gem, CBC's digital free video streaming service, offers four Black History Month collections – Black Stories, Celebrating Black History, Black Art & Music, and Must Watch Black Leads - featuring over 60 series, films and documentaries that explore Black history and culture, and celebrate the experiences, strength and perseverance of Black communities.
The Black Cultural Society of Prince Edward Island’s theme for Black History Month 2023 (BHM 2023) is “Sanfoka: Honouring our Past, Igniting our Future.” The word Sankofa is a word in the Twi of Ghana meaning “to retrieve.” Sankofa centers around the following: to know history and your heritage is to know your current self, the world around you, and how to better both. The term highlights the importance of education and understanding our histories. The Society has a spectacular lineup of events to celebrate BHM 2023! Be sure to check out their website and get involved this Black History Month.
The Pan-African flag was raised in front of Kelley Memorial Building on Wednesday, February 1st in honour of Black History Month.
Check out UPEI’s Black History Month webpage for events and resources celebrating Black History Month 2023.