February 2008

Celebrating Our Heroes

 Sunday, February 3, 2 – 5 pm
OPENING CELEBRATION
Sponsored by LBHCC
Location: Museum London, 421 Ridout St. North
This event will showcase the “diversity” and rich history of London’s vibrant Black community. Cultural groups and services will present their arts, crafts, music and dance as well as offer samples of traditional food.
For more information: 519-675-1205
 

February to April 2008
“AND STILL I RISE: A HISTORY OF AFRICAN CANADIAN WORKERS IN ONTARIO”
Sponsored by Woodstock Museum
Location: Woodstock Museum, 466 Dundas St., Woodstock, Ontario
The Woodstock Museum will be hosting this travelling exhibit chronicling the working experiences of Blacks in Hamilton during the turn of the century.
For more information: 519-537-8411
 

Saturday, February 16, 11 – 5 pm
‘THE NEXT STEP”
Sponsored by PAUL LEWIS ROOM
Location: Paul Lewis Room, 55 Centre St.
This event will provide a venue for discussion on Racism and Discrimination. Special Guests and Black History Display.
Program as follows:
11:00 am - Identifying Discrimination;
l:00 pm - Refreshments (Cultural Food)
2:30 pm - Dealing with Racism
For more information: Delta 519-898-5341
 

Friday, February 22, 5:30 - 8 pm Saturday, February 23, 1 - 4 pm
A BLACK HISTORY MONTH PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES
Sponsored by LBHCC and Children’s Museum
London Regional Children’s Museum, 21 Wharncliffe Rd
A weekend of educational activities and events for the entire family! Join us for singing, dancing, and an opportunity to engage in arts and crafts, games, etc. Friday evening features La’Ron Williams, one of the finest storytellers in Michigan.
ADMISSION: Free Friday; $6.00 Saturday
(half price coupons at www.londonchildrensmuseum.ca)
For more information: Children’s Museum 519-434-5726
 

Tuesday, February 19, 7 – 10 pm
AFRICAN GALLERY NIGHT
Sponsored by WAFRIKA
Location: Museum London, 421 Ridout St. North
This event will showcase of exclusive African collectable sculptures, carvings and other artifacts plus a presentation of local artwork by local African artists. Palm reader, Georgina Ugo, will be available for complimentary readings.
Join us for a taste of South African wine and cheese.
For more information: call Joel 519-639-0565

Wednesday, February 20, 7 – 10 pm
BLACK HISTORY FILM NIGHT
Sponsored by Congress of Black Women
Location: Wolf Performance Hall
London Public Library, Central Library 251 Dundas St.
A screening of AMAZING GRACE, a film (PG) based on the life of British Parliamentarian, William Wilberforce and his work to bring about the passage of the law to abolish the Slave Trade. Describes the role of John Newton who wrote the hymn, Amazing Grace. Refreshments will be served.
For more information: Rita 519-473-5198

Sunday, February 24, 2 – 5 pm
CLOSING GALA
Sponsored by LBHCC
Location: Wolf Performance Hall
London Public Library, Central Library, 251 Dundas Street
Enjoy the talents of many local artists, including Denise Pelley. This gala event will showcase some of the diverse rhythms of the world. Join us immediately following the performances for a reception which will include samplings of various cuisines.
Tickets: $10 for adults, $5 for children (12 and under)
Tickets available at:
Central Library, Outreach Services, 1st floor, 519-661-5120
Cross Cultural Learner Centre, 505 Dundas St, 519-432-1133
Festival Food Mart, 456 Southdale Road, 519-649-7765
For more information: Harold 519-686-7502

What is Black History Month?
Every year Canadians are invited to take part in the festivities that commemorate the legacy of Black Canadians, past and present, during Black History Month. This is a time to celebrate their many achievements and contributions that have allowed Canada to become the multicultural and diverse nation it is today. It is also a time to learn about the experiences of Blacks in Canadian society.

Source: Black History Month, Canadian Heritage

Why A Black History Month?
The celebration of Black History Month is an attempt to have the achievements of Black people recognized and told. Canadians need to know a history of Canada that includes all of the founding and pioneering experiences in order to work from reality, rather than perception alone. The London community needs a Black History Month in order to help us to arrive at an understanding of ourselves as Canadians in the most accurate and complete socio-historical context that we can produce.

Source: Rosemary Sadlier. Why a Black History Month?