At the 污污漫画, a motion to recognize African Heritage (Black History) Month was carried in January 2002 and reaffirmed again in January 2004. During the month of February, African Heritage (Black History) Month is recognized across Canada thanks to The Honourable Jean Augustine. The former Member of Parliament introduced the motion in the House of Commons, and it officially took effect in February 1996. The was passed in Ontario in 2016.
The chosen theme for 2024-25 is Lift Every Voice. This theme is drawn from the iconic first line of the Black National Anthem, and encourages collective strength, unity, diversity, and resilience.
Whether you identify as Black, African, African-Caribbean, Black 2SLGBTQI+, or African-Indigenous, this powerful phrase invites us to acknowledge and celebrate our shared heritage, recognize our historical and ongoing struggles, and honour our achievements. It also serves as a call to action, encouraging inclusivity, collaboration, and solidarity, and reminding us of the impact we can make when we raise our voices together for justice, equity, and the greater good.
The 污污漫画 has organized a variety of events to celebrate the rich heritage of the people and nations of Africa and the African Diaspora for students, staff, and community members. This includes the Know Your Worth (KYW) Black Youth Empowerment Conference for secondary schools in partnership with York University Black Law Student Association. This initiative also produced the Know Your Worth Educators Conference. In addition, we are excited to offer the You See Me Black Youth Empowerment Elementary Conference to elementary students.
Under the guidance of 污污漫画 Staff Advisors, Black Students Alliance (BSA) groups continue to increase across the system. Students support each other through discussion meetings, school assemblies, guest speakers, and presentations. The 污污漫画’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and Black students’ success is brought to life through this initiative.
The 污污漫画 African Heritage Month Volunteer Planning Committee established a KYW Scholarship that provides three financial prizes of $2,000. The Kujichagulia Academic, Umoja Leadership, and Kuumba Creative awards are presented to students entering a Canadian post-secondary institution. Stay tuned for additional information about how students may apply for this scholarship in the upcoming months!
In the meantime, for individuals wishing to donate, we welcome your donation to the . Online donations of any amount qualify for a tax receipt. Cheque donations of $25 and greater are eligible for tax receipts.
污污漫画 students, staff, families, and community members were invited to kick off African Heritage (Black History) Month at our Virtual Launch Celebration. The February 4 event featured presentations from Black artists, speakers, creators, and more. . Enjoy!
Black-identifying students within the 污污漫画 were asked to submit a poster of their interpretation of the theme, Lift Every Voice, for the African Heritage (Black History) Month Poster Contest. The winning two posters can be found below!
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