February is Black History Month

February is Black History Month in Canada. While the contributions of Black Canadians should be celebrated and recognized throughout the year, February is a time to focus on the lives and achievements of our Black community.

Black History Month is particularly significant for ECU, as universities have historically been spaces where Black people have been excluded and marginalized. By signing the Scarborough Charter, ECU has committed to combating anti-Black racism and fostering Black inclusion.

These injustices are not limited to the past: more than 20 historically Black college and universities (HBCUs) in the United States were targeted by bomb threats on January 31 and February 1. As a member of the Association of Independent Colleges of Art art Design, ECU stands with HBCUs against violence and intimidation.

This month is about learning, reflecting, celebrating and honouring. In that spirit, we’ve gathered resources and events to support your participation in Black History Month.

• Watch. The Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) has curated a month of programming from Black filmmakers. Events include Spotlight on The Porter, a series about the Black community in St. Antoine, Montreal, as well as a selection of feature and documentary films from Black voices around the world. The Museum of Anthropology is also hosting the Sankofa Film Festival on February 12, featuring films exploring the African diaspora.
• Learn. The BC Black History Awareness Society is a non-profit celebrating the historical and contemporary achievements of Black people in BC. On February 5, they’re hosting “History of Anti-Black Racism in Canadian Schools and Universities,” a talk with Dr. June Francis. Registration is free.
• Engage. On February 16, the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives and the BC Black History Awareness Society are co-hosting An Evening with Dr. Cornel West, the author, activist, and philosopher. Registration is free.
• Support. BLAC (Black Arts Centre) is a Black youth owned and operated gallery and community space opening soon in Surrey, BC. Learn about their mission and plan a visit when they open their doors.
• Give. Give Back to Black is a fundraising and educational initiative to raise funds for the Black community in BC. Their daily posts on Instagram highlight and celebrate Black lives; those who enjoy the posts are encouraged to donate to the fund.
• Share. Tell us about the Black artists, designers and creatives you admire, in the ECU community and beyond. We’ll be celebrating them on ECU’s Instagram throughout the month.