Black Canadians have played a significant role in shaping Canadian heritage and identity by contributing to the well-being and prosperity of our country. For this reason, in 2024 the theme for Black History Month is “Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build”.

This theme celebrates the rich past and present contributions and accomplishments of Black people in Canada while aspiring to embrace new opportunities for the future.

The theme also aligns with the 10th year of the International Decade for People of African Descent, which recognizes that people of African descent represent a distinct group whose human rights must be promoted and protected.

We invite all members to learn more about Black Canadian communities, and how they continue to help shape Canada through upcoming events around the city and educational resources.

Here are some events you can check out:

Events

Ethnik Festival of Arts and Culture
Feb. 9 and 10, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., TELUS Convention Centre, 136 8 Ave S.E.
Celebrate the vibrant cultural traditions of the Afro-Canadian/Caribbean communities at the annual Ethnik Festival of Art & Culture. Discover local and international talents at the emerging artist showcase and please your palate by attending the tasty "food war," where professional chefs and cultural ambassadors compete for the best dish. Cost: $25-40
Tickets

Black Professionals Canada Black History Month Event
Feb. 16, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., CSPACE Marda Loop, 1721 29 Avenue S.W.
Black Professionals Canada is hosting a special Black History Month event to celebrate community building and the benefits of a supportive network. The event will feature inspiring stories from expert speakers, a captivating art exhibition, and networking opportunities. Don't miss out on connecting, learning, and celebrating black excellence. 
Register

A Black History Month 'Celebration of Excellence
Feb. 24, 4:30 p.m., Courtyard Marriott Calgary Airport, 2500 48 Avenue N.E.
This event will spotlight Black women who have been 'firsts,' 'onlys' and 'trendsetters'. Expect an evening of knowledge-sharing, a time to enjoy dinner and performances from local and young performers, and partake in raffle sessions throughout the event.
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Slavery, Mobility, and the Creolized Counter-Knowledge of Resistance
Feb. 29, 6 p.m., University of Calgary (Craigie Hall 119), 2500 University Dr. N.W. 
The University of Calgary's African Studies program invites the public to delve into the intricate web of Slavery, Mobility, and the Creolized Counter-Knowledge of Resistance as Dr. Charmaine Nelson explores a pivotal historical moment through the lens of an intriguing fugitive slave advertisement from the Quebec Gazette dated May 3, 1767.
This event is in collaboration with the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (OEDI), the Department of Art & Art History, & the Faculty of Arts Dean Office at the University of Calgary.
Register

Black History Month: The Civil Rights Movement in Alberta
Feb. 26, 6 to 7:30 p.m., Central Library (Level 1 - 1-03 Patricia A. Whelan Performance Hall), 800 3 St S.E.
Join Bashir Mohamed to learn more about key figures in Alberta's Black civil rights history and its connections to modern civil rights movements, and discover online research tools that you can use to find Black stories and history to support your learning.
Register

Educational resources: 

• About Black History Month
• Noteworthy figures
• Significant events in Black history in Canada
• Organizations and educational resources on the history of Black communities in Canada
• The legacy and impact of organizations led by Black women in Canada
• International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024)