Ashly July
February is Black History Month and people across Toronto are learning about and celebrating the contributions of black Canadians.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Black History Month in Canada, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reminding Canadians of its importance.
“Throughout our history, black Canadians have played a key role in building and shaping the diverse, free, and prosperous country that we enjoy today,” Trudeau said in a statement put out Monday.
Trudeau went on to say “diversity” is Canada’s greatest strength and that black Canadians have shown bravery over the course of the country’s history.
“I encourage all Canadians to take part in the events and activities that take place in their communities – to honour the legacy of black Canadians and our country’s heritage,” he said.
For those looking to celebrate Black History Month, there are a number of events happening in Toronto throughout the month.
Toronto Black Film Festival
Description: 3rd annual five-day festival celebrating films created by black actors and filmmakers.
Location: Carlton Cinema
Date: Feb 10 – 14
Time: N/A
Website: www.torontoblackfilm.com/
Kuumba Festival
Description: 20th year weekend festival featuring comedy shows, performances and a panel moderated by Desmond Cole.
Location: Harbourfront Centre
Date: Feb 5 – 7
Time: N/A
Website: www.harbourfrontcentre.com/kuumba/
Water Carry Me Go
Description: Water themed “fashion-art” exhibit featuring performance art by creators from the black diaspora.
Location: Royal Ontario Museum / Harbourfront Centre
Date: Thursday, Feb 6 – 12
Time: 5:00-7:00 pm
Website: http://www.harbourfrontcentre.com/whatson/visualarts.cfm?id=7994&festival_id=222
Lawrence Heights Black History Celebration
Location: Lawrence Heights Community Centre
Date: Thursday, February 25, 2016
Time: 5:00-7:00 pm
Open to Public: Yes
Black History Month Event – Flemingdon Park Community
Location: Dennis R. Timbrell Community Resource Centre
Date: Throughout the month
Open to Public: Yes
One Love
Description: Kick-off event for Black History Month featuring arts and crafts.
Location: Malvern Community Centre
Date: Friday, February 5, 2016
Time: 3:30-7:00 pm
Open to Public: Yes
Check back to Humber News for continued Black History Month coverage.