Black & Cultural Events
- Afro Toronto
- Black AF In STEM
- Black Business London
- Black Canada - Canada's Coolest Culture Site
- Black Foundation of Community Networks - serves & supports local Black communities
Black Then Discovering Our History - Black Theatre Workshop
- Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society Month
- Jamaican Canadian Association
- Missing Pages
- National Black History Month Expo
- Ontario Heritage Trust
- Ontario Black History Society
- Toronto, Ontario Black Events
Black History Tours
(Picture taken by Linda Torkelson Feb. 8, 2015)
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Presentation Dates:
Topic:
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Anti-Black Racism
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Black History and Anti-Racism Resources
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"For too long Blacks have been left behind by the diversity movement in Canada. The BlackNorth Initiative was created by The Canadian Council of Business Leaders Against Anti-Black Systemic Racism to combat anti-Black systemic racism in Corporate Canada. The Initiative challenges senior Canadian business leaders to sign a CEO Pledge committing their companies to specific actions and targets designed to end anti-Black systemic racism and create opportunities for all of those in the underrepresented BIPOC community." (From Black North website)
New initiatives aim to help Black Canadians get a better foothold in the economy
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REGISTER FOR A FREE APPLICABLE, TRANSFORMATIONAL LUNCH & LEARN ABOUT INCLUSIVE LEADERSHIP.
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"More and more educators now recognize the importance of actively building a sense of belonging for all their students and incorporating the histories, perspectives, and lived realities of communities of color into their classrooms. Many are just beginning to embark on a journey toward antibias and antiracist practice. Yet, in the current political moment, they face incredible challenges from lobbying to legislation aiming to stifle their abilities to teach complete, unbiased history; to attend to children’s social and emotional development; and to engage in honest conversations about race, racism, and human difference with their students.
Let’s join together to figure out where we’ve been, where we are now, and how to get where we want to go. What did the landscape of racial learning in schools look like leading up to this moment? What foundational lessons about race are children are learning in school? What big drivers shape how and what children learn about race in school? How can we empower all children and adults by incorporating developmentally appropriate, healthy teaching and learning about race in our schools?" (From Embrace Race website)
Let’s join together to figure out where we’ve been, where we are now, and how to get where we want to go. What did the landscape of racial learning in schools look like leading up to this moment? What foundational lessons about race are children are learning in school? What big drivers shape how and what children learn about race in school? How can we empower all children and adults by incorporating developmentally appropriate, healthy teaching and learning about race in our schools?" (From Embrace Race website)
Black Hisory Month Celebrations
Conferences
Cultural Events
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December 20, 2023 – Public Virtual Six Nations Land Claims Presentation
"Participants will learn about the history of the Hodinohsho:ni, history of wampum belts and the treaty process, and how this effects land claims today.
This is the first time we are offering this virtual session to the public! Don’t miss your opportunity to be a part of this important discussion centering on the topic of land claims. Make sure to take this crucial step towards Truth and Reconciliation with the Woodland Cultural Centre!
Cost: $10 donation to the education department at the Woodland Cultural Centre"
Book Now
"Participants will learn about the history of the Hodinohsho:ni, history of wampum belts and the treaty process, and how this effects land claims today.
This is the first time we are offering this virtual session to the public! Don’t miss your opportunity to be a part of this important discussion centering on the topic of land claims. Make sure to take this crucial step towards Truth and Reconciliation with the Woodland Cultural Centre!
Cost: $10 donation to the education department at the Woodland Cultural Centre"
Book Now
Listen to the IHM 2022 Playlist!
"We’ve put together a playlist with some of our favourite Indigenous songs and performers, some of which will be featured in our Indigenous History Month programming! Give it a listen and subscribe to our playlist today!" (From Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund e-newsletter)
Events
Christmas With The McAuley Boys
Saturday, December 9, 2023
7:30 PM 9:30 PM
Metropolitan United
468 Wellington Street London, ON, N6A 3P8
Saturday, December 9, 2023
7:30 PM 9:30 PM
Metropolitan United
468 Wellington Street London, ON, N6A 3P8
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"Frederick Douglass became one of the most influential activists, orators, and writers ever known in African American history. We will transcribe 8,731 pages of his correspondence that represent him in those roles but also as a father, grandfather, and husband."
Register for Douglass Day 2024
Register for Douglass Day 2024
Grants
"Applications for Oshki Wupoowane | The Blanket Fund are now open. Through two grant streams, The Blanket Fund will provide support for Indigenous cultural, artistic, and educational activities. Indigenous people, as well as Indigenous-led initiatives and organizations in Canada, are eligible.
The Capacity Building grant stream (up to $175,000/year) will support grassroots Indigenous charities, programs, communities, and initiatives (artists and makers) with the potential for significant impact. Multi-year grants available.
The Reconciliation Action grant stream (ranging from $1,500-$15,000) will support community-level reconciliation activities, events, and initiatives that contribute to cultural revitalization; elevate Indigenous culture, languages, and traditions; increase understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples; or other grassroots initiatives that move reconciliation forward." (From Downie & Wenjack e-newsletter)
The Capacity Building grant stream (up to $175,000/year) will support grassroots Indigenous charities, programs, communities, and initiatives (artists and makers) with the potential for significant impact. Multi-year grants available.
The Reconciliation Action grant stream (ranging from $1,500-$15,000) will support community-level reconciliation activities, events, and initiatives that contribute to cultural revitalization; elevate Indigenous culture, languages, and traditions; increase understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples; or other grassroots initiatives that move reconciliation forward." (From Downie & Wenjack e-newsletter)
Lectures
St. Catharines Museum & Welland Canals Centre
Autumn 2022 Line-up – Save the Date!
We are very excited for the line-up of lecturers and topics coming to the series this fall. We will announce the series line-up at the lecture on May 24, but for now, please mark your calendars for 7:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, September 20, October 4 and 18, November 1, 15, and 29, and December 13.
Discovering Niagara’s Freedom Trail
Tuesday, October 4 at 7pm
On October 4, we’ll welcome back local historian Rochelle Bush to speak about Niagara’s Freedom Trail – the loosely connected network of important heritage sites, museums, and other historical places connected to the story of freedom and the Underground Railroad throughout Niagara.
Link: https://youtu.be/cSCSpj6Z9PA
Subscribe on YouTube!
Don’t miss a lecture – or any of our other fun videos. Subscribe to our channel to make sure you’re always in the know. You can also turn on alerts for when we go live! (From Museum Website Information)
We are very excited for the line-up of lecturers and topics coming to the series this fall. We will announce the series line-up at the lecture on May 24, but for now, please mark your calendars for 7:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, September 20, October 4 and 18, November 1, 15, and 29, and December 13.
Discovering Niagara’s Freedom Trail
Tuesday, October 4 at 7pm
On October 4, we’ll welcome back local historian Rochelle Bush to speak about Niagara’s Freedom Trail – the loosely connected network of important heritage sites, museums, and other historical places connected to the story of freedom and the Underground Railroad throughout Niagara.
Link: https://youtu.be/cSCSpj6Z9PA
Subscribe on YouTube!
Don’t miss a lecture – or any of our other fun videos. Subscribe to our channel to make sure you’re always in the know. You can also turn on alerts for when we go live! (From Museum Website Information)
Free Press Speaks
"Underground Railroad Free Press publisher Peter Michael will deliver the keynote address at the opening of the Traditions Week of McDaniel College’s annual two-week Common Ground summer program. For nearly 30 years, Common Ground has promoted racial understanding through traditional music and arts. Mr. Michael will present an illustrated presentation on "The Underground Railroad: The War for the Soul of America" which may be viewed live at 8:00 PM on June 27 at youtube.com/c/commongroundonthehillofficial." (From Underground Railroad Free Press e-newsletter)
"Underground Railroad Free Press publisher Peter Michael will deliver the keynote address at the opening of the Traditions Week of McDaniel College’s annual two-week Common Ground summer program. For nearly 30 years, Common Ground has promoted racial understanding through traditional music and arts. Mr. Michael will present an illustrated presentation on "The Underground Railroad: The War for the Soul of America" which may be viewed live at 8:00 PM on June 27 at youtube.com/c/commongroundonthehillofficial." (From Underground Railroad Free Press e-newsletter)
Social
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Workshops
Metis 101
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Métis 101
Presentation on Métis culture and history, including with the ethnogenesis of the Métis, "Who Are the Métis?", their unique and rich culture and language. Why did they disappear in history? Where are they today? Online, 2-hour workshop in a small group setting. To register, please visit https://uwaterloo.gosignmeup.com/public/Course/browse?courseid=7100." (From University of Waterloo website) |
"Drawing on experience from over two decades of close collaboration with Inuit communities in the Arctic, Dr. Fox will illustrate the powerful ways our understanding of the changing Arctic climate can be advanced when we link Inuit knowledge and visiting science. She will use examples from community-led research, land-based programs, and harvesting to show how co-produced knowledge, Inuit self-determination in research, and supporting community-based action are fundamental to addressing climate and environmental challenges in the Arctic and beyond. Dr. Fox will centre Arctic weather and sea ice in the story, and connect to the works of her colleague, friend, and photographer Robert Kautuk, whose photography exhibition accompanies this year’s lecture.This event has limited capacity." (From University of Waterloo website)
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Books
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Author Craig Shreve (Image courtesy of/& used with permission)
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For more information on the book African Samurai and author, click Writers Corner to be redirected to the web-page on this website.
Committees
Anti-Black Racism Plan
"In response to the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s June, 2020 declaration that racism is a public health crisis, the Health Unit hired a consultancy group to assist with the development of an Anti-Black Racism Plan (ABRP) for the agency. The Anti-Black Racism Plan was also shaped through the engagement of local African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) community representatives. The engagement strategies used included a survey, focus groups, and one-on-one sessions with community members who were able to add their voices to the development of the plan."
Read the plan
"The ABRP has identified 45 recommendations, which are focused on addressing and eliminating anti-Black racism from public health programs and services in London and Middlesex County, and on collaborating with others to address and eliminate anti-Black racism more broadly. Download and review the Anti-Black Racism Plan from the link below."
Dining Experience
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150 North St. E., Tillsonuburg, ON
519-868-6785/info@coolconvenience.ca
Cool Convenience | Facebook/ig:@coolconvenience
519-868-6785/info@coolconvenience.ca
Cool Convenience | Facebook/ig:@coolconvenience
More Than Your Local Convenience Store
Cook Food Available: Thursday - Saturday
Jerk Chicken, Jerk Pork, Curry Goat, Oxtail & more
All meals served with rice and peas, plantain & coleslaw
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Khadijah Haliru
1-844-535-5463
1-844-535-5463
HANAK ARENA BITES
Fast Food Meets African Cuisine
Hanak Foods brings Nigeria to dinner tables in Oxford County | Ontario Culinary
BEACH PATTIES CARIBBEAN FOOD
34 ROBINSON ST., PORT BURWELL, ON
519-550-6206
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Order Online
Windsor West Indian Association
2410 Central Ave,
Windsor, ON N8W 4J4
519-945-0213, secretary@wwia.club
Caribbean Take out
Call to order 519-945-0213
Curb side pick up only
EACH WEEKEND WE FEATURE AN ASSORTMENT OF CARIBBEAN FAVOURITES
Curb side pick up only
EACH WEEKEND WE FEATURE AN ASSORTMENT OF CARIBBEAN FAVOURITES
Employment Opportunities
Entertainment
- Arobiz.ca - Listings of Toronto Events and Entertainment
- The Black Academy - Celebrates & Inspires Black Canadians in the Arts, Culture, Entertainment & Sports
- B.L.A.C.K. Canada - Building A Legacy in Acting, Cinema and Knowledge (B.L.A.C.K.) Canada is a community based not-for-profit organization
- Prestige Ignites - Canadian singer-songwriter, Recording Artist, Poet, Model & Motivational Speaker
- Saidat - is a children's entertainer, speaker, author, singer and songwriter who has The Saidat Show.
- Toronto Black Film Festival
- Vancouver International Black Film Festival
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TBA
Films
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(Image courtesy of/& used with permission)
HER-STORY
"A shy high school student who blossomed into a genuine star at her community’s biggest event, Joella Crichton learned how to perform in front of crowds of thousands. In her community, she is a rock star of sorts. Carnival is a deeply important event, and its Queen is revered. Building on backstory from Joella’s childhood and family background, this film will give viewers an in-depth personal perspective into the building of a Queen. But it will also emphasize and celebrate the intricate details that go into preparing for the competition and building the elaborate costumes; the history of the competition and Carnival in Toronto; Black and Caribbean-Canadian identity; and the fact that Caribbean communities do not hold the same narrow and exclusive standards of beauty as Europe and North America do." (From Callowgrove Entertainment website)
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“The Water Walker”
Watch on Crave TV
"Seeing Red 6Nations, an Indigenous-owned media company based on Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, comes the film The Water Walker. 15 years old, Autumn Peltier has become a powerful advocate for clean drinking water in Indigenous communities around the world. THE WATER WALKER documents Peltier's powerful journey from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island, Ontario, Canada to New York City as she prepares to speak in front of the United Nations with the hope of preserving the future of Indigenous communities for generations to come.
The film is narrated by Academy Award-nominated actor Graham Greene (Oneida, Six Nations of the Grand River Territory (Ontario).
The Water Walker is a relevant and timely documentary with international awareness growing about the water crisis that exists within First Nations communities." (From Seeing Red 6 Nations Press Release)
The film is narrated by Academy Award-nominated actor Graham Greene (Oneida, Six Nations of the Grand River Territory (Ontario).
The Water Walker is a relevant and timely documentary with international awareness growing about the water crisis that exists within First Nations communities." (From Seeing Red 6 Nations Press Release)
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HISTORY® AND HUNGRY EYES MEDIA
PRESENT A GROUNDBREAKING EXPLORATION OF CANADA’S BLACK HISTORY IN
BLK: AN ORIGIN STORY
"It's here! The BLK: An Origin Story Trailer! It's dynamic, full of facts, historically driven and ready for you to share with your social media networks, friends, family, colleagues etc.
It's time that Canada stand up and represent our history, which is
BLACK HISTORY!
The episode can be found on Global; you will have to sign in.
It's time that Canada stand up and represent our history, which is
BLACK HISTORY!
The episode can be found on Global; you will have to sign in.
Written and Directed by Jennifer Holness
Produced by Jennifer Holness
2021 | 101 minutes
"Subjects of Desire explores the cultural shift in North American beauty standards
towards embracing Black female aesthetics and features while exposing the deliberate
and often dangerous portrayals of Black women in the media. From society’s new fixation on the ‘booty’, fuller lips, the dramatic rise of spray tanned skin, ethnic hairstyles, and athletic bodies, some argue that Black women are having a beauty moment. But others, primarily Black women, argue that traditional Black features and attributes are seen as more desirable when they are on White women.
Told from the POV of women who aren’t afraid to challenge conventional beauty
standards, the film is partially set at the 50th Anniversary of the Miss Black America
Pageant, a beauty pageant that was created as a political protest. Subjects of Desire is a culturally significant, provocative film that challenges and ultimately deconstructs what we understand about race and the power behind beauty." (From Hungry Eyes Media website)
Produced by Jennifer Holness
2021 | 101 minutes
"Subjects of Desire explores the cultural shift in North American beauty standards
towards embracing Black female aesthetics and features while exposing the deliberate
and often dangerous portrayals of Black women in the media. From society’s new fixation on the ‘booty’, fuller lips, the dramatic rise of spray tanned skin, ethnic hairstyles, and athletic bodies, some argue that Black women are having a beauty moment. But others, primarily Black women, argue that traditional Black features and attributes are seen as more desirable when they are on White women.
Told from the POV of women who aren’t afraid to challenge conventional beauty
standards, the film is partially set at the 50th Anniversary of the Miss Black America
Pageant, a beauty pageant that was created as a political protest. Subjects of Desire is a culturally significant, provocative film that challenges and ultimately deconstructs what we understand about race and the power behind beauty." (From Hungry Eyes Media website)
PROJECTS ON THE SLATE
CARRIE BEST (Series) with writer Lawrence Hill and co-producer Vanessa Mitchell
Guided by an unwavering determination to never yield to injustice, Carrie Best travels a lonesome road in the fight for the civil rights of Black Canadians. Her incredible journey has shaped our nation, even if most of us don’t know it yet."
Guided by an unwavering determination to never yield to injustice, Carrie Best travels a lonesome road in the fight for the civil rights of Black Canadians. Her incredible journey has shaped our nation, even if most of us don’t know it yet."
40 ACRES (Feature) with writer/director R.T. Thorne
"Hailey Freeman and her family are the last descendants of African American slaves
who traveled the underground railroad and settled in rural Canada after the Civil War.
They survive in a post-apocalyptic future by pushing themselves to the limit of human
endurance and must make their last stand against a band of organized mercenaries,
intent on taking their 40 ACRES.
In development with Telefilm, Ontario Creates and HGF" (From Hungry Eyes Media website)
who traveled the underground railroad and settled in rural Canada after the Civil War.
They survive in a post-apocalyptic future by pushing themselves to the limit of human
endurance and must make their last stand against a band of organized mercenaries,
intent on taking their 40 ACRES.
In development with Telefilm, Ontario Creates and HGF" (From Hungry Eyes Media website)
Crave Original Documentary OSCAR PETERSON: BLACK + WHITE
"Following its recent World Premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, Barry Avrich’s OSCAR PETERSON: BLACK + WHITE is available for streaming on Friday, Oct. 22. The Crave Original Documentary is a celebration of Montréal-born musician, Oscar Peterson, and charts his rise to prominence and legendary proficiency as a jazz pianist. The film is packed with musical moments and interviews with Peterson, as well as those he inspired and mentored, including Herbie Hancock, Billy Joel, Branford Marsalis, Measha Brueggergosman, Joe Sealy, Robi Botos, and Oscar® winner Jon Batiste." (From Channel Canada website)
Financial Resources
Fundraiser
A 174-year-old fugitive slave chapel and historic landmark on the move
Fanshawe Pioneer Village- Where the Past is Present
Black History Month: Artwork of Fugitive Slave Chapel mothers brings history to life
Renovated Chapel (Image by H. Rennalls)
Health
A free health clinic every Tuesday
A community meal program every Thursday
A community shower program for those in need Mondays to Fridays
Media
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- African Canadian Voice (AVC) - A program focusing on African Canadian culture and heritage
- Caribbean Vibrations TV - is a magazine style program, highlighting the best of the best in Caribbean entertainment, lifestyle & culture
- Hungry Eyes Media
- The Caribbean Camera - Many People, One Paper
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Happy anniversary 'me too.' community
"#MeToo is turning five! Five years of progress, five years of movement building, and five years of disruption building onto a foundation decades in the making. As we commemorate the fifth anniversary of the viral hashtag, we invite you to join us as we discover new ways to engage, reflect, and take action.
Over the next year, we are going #BeyondTheHashtag and committing ourselves to taking new steps in our collective fight to disrupt and ultimately eradicate sexual violence. From in-person direct action to reclaiming digital spaces, to community gatherings, we have a year packed with opportunities to heal in community, and make your voice heard." (From me too e-newsletter)
Over the next year, we are going #BeyondTheHashtag and committing ourselves to taking new steps in our collective fight to disrupt and ultimately eradicate sexual violence. From in-person direct action to reclaiming digital spaces, to community gatherings, we have a year packed with opportunities to heal in community, and make your voice heard." (From me too e-newsletter)
Newsletters
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Underground Railroad Free Press - your source for news and views on today's Underground Railroad
Underground Railroad Free Press
News & views of the Underground Railroad
• Volume XVII, no. 98, November 2022
"Published bimonthly since 2006, we bring together organizations and people interested in the historical and the contemporary Underground Railroad. Free Press is the home of Lynx, the central registry of contemporary Underground Railroad organizations; Datebook, the community's event calendar; and the Free Press Prizes awarded annually for leadership, preservation and advancement of knowledge, the community's highest honors. Please visit urrfreepress.com for more." (From the Underground Railroad Free Press)
In this issue:
New Mapping Tech Gives Major Boost to the Underground Railroad Story
New Mapping Tech Gives Major Boost to the Underground Railroad Story
- A County Sets a New Standard in Portraying the Underground Railroad
- A Famous Neighborhood Sets a New Standard in Portraying Civil Rights
- State Grants Boost Two Historic Sites
- A Philadelphia Family Finally Recognized
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Welcome to the Spring 2023 Edition of Indigenous Connections!
"Welcome everyone, and thank you for taking this time to check out "Indigenous Connections." We know things are busy as our lives align with the season of Spring, and your gift of time is precious. Spring is a time of change and renewal and connects to the medicine wheel teachings of the Eastern direction. It is a time for planting and creating new life, of growth and the accompanying vulnerability. Somewhere between the solemnity of winter and vibrant frenzy of summer, we take this time to nurture, prepare, and bloom!" (From Indigenous Connections Newsletter Spring 2023 Volume 7)
"Welcome everyone, and thank you for taking this time to check out "Indigenous Connections." We know things are busy as our lives align with the season of Spring, and your gift of time is precious. Spring is a time of change and renewal and connects to the medicine wheel teachings of the Eastern direction. It is a time for planting and creating new life, of growth and the accompanying vulnerability. Somewhere between the solemnity of winter and vibrant frenzy of summer, we take this time to nurture, prepare, and bloom!" (From Indigenous Connections Newsletter Spring 2023 Volume 7)
In this issue:
- Welcome to National Indigenous History Month!
- Happy Pride Month!
- Feature Story: UWaterloo welcomes an Eagle Staff!
- Feature Story: UWaterloo announces tuition waiver for students from two First Nations communities
- Welcome Melissa Ireland: Director, Indigenous Relations!
- Welcome Laura Belben: Indigenous Student Support Counsellor!
- Welcome Emily Brant: Inclusive Communications Manager, Indigenous Relations!
- Welcome Lori Moses: Indigenous Student Service Specialist, The Centre
- Upcoming Events
- James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw: The Seven Grandfather Teachings
- Dr. Kayla Murphy and Robin Stadelbauer: Land and Territory Acknowledgements
- Indigenous Peoples Day Hangout!
- Ozhawa Anung Kwe/ Yellow Star Woman (Teddy Syrette): 2Spirit & LGBTQ+ Pride
- Territorial Acknowledgement (From Indigenous Connections Newsletter Spring 2023 Volume 7)
Non-Profits
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OUR MISSION
"Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation (HHJF) is a North America-based organization seeking to improve the lives of the next generation of children, young adults and their communities by creating a world-class education system through investment in infrastructure, health, wellness and leadership.
The motto of HHJF is 'Participate, Educate, Elevate' because we believe by providing the opportunity for an education, we can eliminate the barriers to a child's success." (From Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation website)
The motto of HHJF is 'Participate, Educate, Elevate' because we believe by providing the opportunity for an education, we can eliminate the barriers to a child's success." (From Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation website)
Podcasts
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DIVES INTO THE UNTOLD HISTORY OF THE TRANSATLANTIC SLAVE TRADE WITH NEW PODCAST, INTO THE DEPTHS
LAUNCHED JANUARY 27, 2022
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"National Geographic Explorer Tara Roberts Takes Us on a Personal Journey That Follows Black Scuba Divers Searching for Slave Shipwrecks Around the World... [in] a a powerful new podcast, INTO THE DEPTHS, on Jan. 27, 2022, that uncovers the deep history of the transatlantic slave trade.... The six-part podcast series,... follows Roberts from Florida to Costa Rica, and from the continent of Africa back to Roberts’ family home in Edenton, North Carolina, where the journey quickly turns personal for her." (From National Geographic website)
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"In The Black: Canada, was started by three Black Canadian women Nina Aning, Sonia Godding-Togobo, and Donna Paris who, through their work in media and education, have focused on the experience of being Black Canadian. Together they created two projects - The Web Chronicles (2015), and The Windsor Project (2017), which is now part of the permanent collection of the Art Gallery of Windsor. Though the collective is not currently active, they all continue the work of telling the stories of Black people." (From the In The Black: Canada website)
I Am Black History (ITBC)
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The I Am Black History podcast is a solo project by Donna Paris through InTheBlack:Canada website. Individuals who have stories to share can contact Donna through the website.
Slavery in Newfoundland and Labrador Episode 1: Who was W.H.?
"Unearthed: Slavery in Newfoundland and Labrador is a multipart radio documentary and digital series that examines connections of enslaved Black people in the province. It features Xaiver Michael Campbell and is produced by the CBC's Heather Barrett, who is host and producer of Weekend AM. New episodes air on Fridays on CrossTalk on CBC Radio 1 and will be available as podcasts. Listen below to the full documentary Who Was W.H.?" (From CBC website)
Research Projects
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Western News - Mapping the stories of formerly enslaved Black Londoners focus of new research
"In 1856, Benjamin Drew, a U.S. abolitionist, travelled to Canada to transcribe the oral stories of formerly enslaved Black refugees. Among them, 16 individuals who originally settled in London, Ont. Their narratives, recorded in Drew’s book, A North-Side View of Slavery, describe their former enslavers, their escapes and how they made it to Canada.
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But what of their lives afterwards?
With Drew’s accounts as their starting point, Western researchers Miranda Green-Barteet and Alyssa MacLean are working to trace the paths these self-liberated individuals took after arriving in London. By documenting their journeys through an interactive website hosted by Western Libraries, Green-Barteet and MacLean aim to address a longstanding gap in the history of Black Londoners." news.westernu.ca
With Drew’s accounts as their starting point, Western researchers Miranda Green-Barteet and Alyssa MacLean are working to trace the paths these self-liberated individuals took after arriving in London. By documenting their journeys through an interactive website hosted by Western Libraries, Green-Barteet and MacLean aim to address a longstanding gap in the history of Black Londoners." news.westernu.ca
Resources
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One Too Many The Enslavement of Africans in Early Ontario 1760 - 1834
Abolitionist Newspapers of the 1850s
Immigration and Ethnicity in Canada Booklet Series
(Download and read The Enslavement of Africans in Canada by Dr. Aufa Cooper)
(Download and read The Enslavement of Africans in Canada by Dr. Aufa Cooper)
Scholarships
"Enoch Media Inc., through its SavvyNewCanadians.com platform, is launching a scholarship for the purpose of increasing and improving financial literacy and awareness among students in Canada.
The Savvy New Canadians Financial Literacy Scholarship is scheduled to run twice a year starting in Winter 2023 and will be available again in Fall 2023. Two winners will receive a one-time scholarship award value of $1,000 each for Winter and Fall terms starting January 2023.
Fill out application form here." (From Savvy New Canadian website)
The Savvy New Canadians Financial Literacy Scholarship is scheduled to run twice a year starting in Winter 2023 and will be available again in Fall 2023. Two winners will receive a one-time scholarship award value of $1,000 each for Winter and Fall terms starting January 2023.
Fill out application form here." (From Savvy New Canadian website)
Black Student Scholarship Initiative
"The University of Windsor has established a $250,000 goal for the new Black Student Scholarship Initiative that will begin to support Black-identified students in Fall 2021.
To achieve this milestone, the University is committed to matching the first $125,000 raised in a campaign that will launch during Black History Month.
The Black Student Scholarship Initiative is an outstanding opportunity. Not only is this an excellent chance for current and prospective students to pursue any one of the 190 program options that UWindsor provides, but these funds could potentially serve as a resource for those bright young students with aspirations to explore graduate degrees at the University of Windsor.
Scholarships will be available to entering and continuing students in both graduate and undergraduate programs and will be chosen through a student awards committee.
The scholarship is part of the University’s commitment to addressing anti-Black racism to ensure that all members of our campus community can study, work, teach, research, and create in a healthy, safe, and supportive environment." (From the University of Windsor website)
To achieve this milestone, the University is committed to matching the first $125,000 raised in a campaign that will launch during Black History Month.
The Black Student Scholarship Initiative is an outstanding opportunity. Not only is this an excellent chance for current and prospective students to pursue any one of the 190 program options that UWindsor provides, but these funds could potentially serve as a resource for those bright young students with aspirations to explore graduate degrees at the University of Windsor.
Scholarships will be available to entering and continuing students in both graduate and undergraduate programs and will be chosen through a student awards committee.
The scholarship is part of the University’s commitment to addressing anti-Black racism to ensure that all members of our campus community can study, work, teach, research, and create in a healthy, safe, and supportive environment." (From the University of Windsor website)
Tepperman Family Commits to Graduate Scholarships for Indigenous Peoples
"A multi-year financial commitment by local family-owned furniture and appliance chain Tepperman’s will provide post-graduate scholarship opportunities to Indigenous Peoples looking to reach the highest levels of education, says Andrew Tepperman, third generation president of the 96- year-old company.
The Tepperman Family Graduate Scholarship for Indigenous Peoples will award two fully-funded scholarships annually – one each for qualifying students in Masters and PhD programs.
“We believe this program fills an important educational gap that will empower these graduate students to be better equipped to make a difference within their communities and Canada,” Tepperman said.
University of Windsor President and Vice-Chancellor Rob Gordon says systemic bias and lack of financial supports are among the many reasons Indigenous Peoples are not appropriately represented in academia.
“Students in graduate programs need financial support and personal encouragement to continue their educational path and eventually share their own expertise through teaching, research, and creative activity,” Dr. Gordon says.
“We are grateful to the Tepperman family for recognizing the importance of providing this support. We all benefit when the best and brightest among us have the opportunity to pursue their talents and abilities without barriers.”
The Teppermans’ commitment to academic opportunity has provided more than 700 students with post-secondary tuition funding since 1988. This latest community partnership aligns with the company’s corporate Vision 2025.
Tepperman notes that Canada is a country of immigrants living on the traditional land of Indigenous Peoples and says all Canadians must find ways to reflect on how they can acknowledge and begin to rectify historic injustice.
“There are many ways to support Truth and Reconciliation. Tepperman’s has chosen the path of higher learning.” (From the University of Windsor website)
The Tepperman Family Graduate Scholarship for Indigenous Peoples will award two fully-funded scholarships annually – one each for qualifying students in Masters and PhD programs.
“We believe this program fills an important educational gap that will empower these graduate students to be better equipped to make a difference within their communities and Canada,” Tepperman said.
University of Windsor President and Vice-Chancellor Rob Gordon says systemic bias and lack of financial supports are among the many reasons Indigenous Peoples are not appropriately represented in academia.
“Students in graduate programs need financial support and personal encouragement to continue their educational path and eventually share their own expertise through teaching, research, and creative activity,” Dr. Gordon says.
“We are grateful to the Tepperman family for recognizing the importance of providing this support. We all benefit when the best and brightest among us have the opportunity to pursue their talents and abilities without barriers.”
The Teppermans’ commitment to academic opportunity has provided more than 700 students with post-secondary tuition funding since 1988. This latest community partnership aligns with the company’s corporate Vision 2025.
Tepperman notes that Canada is a country of immigrants living on the traditional land of Indigenous Peoples and says all Canadians must find ways to reflect on how they can acknowledge and begin to rectify historic injustice.
“There are many ways to support Truth and Reconciliation. Tepperman’s has chosen the path of higher learning.” (From the University of Windsor website)
Seniors
Computer Training Courses for Seniors
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Computer class will resume on Tuesday January 10, 2023, at 12:00 noon.
The on line/zoom class will resume on Thursday January 12, 2023 at 6:30pm
Please pass this information to any senior who is interested in learning the computer for free, please contact us 519-945-0213 or secretary@wwia.club
The on line/zoom class will resume on Thursday January 12, 2023 at 6:30pm
Please pass this information to any senior who is interested in learning the computer for free, please contact us 519-945-0213 or secretary@wwia.club
The Windsor West Indian Association will be offering Computer Training Courses for Seniors "starting in May 2022. These courses are free for Seniors (55yrs. +) who wish to learn how to fully utilize a computer while ensuring the protection of personal information.
We are inviting you to join us but we need to know what your needs are. If you do not currently have a laptop computer, one will be available for use. If you are a Senior and are interested in participating in WWIA’s computer training courses, please answer this short survey so that we can structure our classes to suit your needs." (From e-newsletter)
We are inviting you to join us but we need to know what your needs are. If you do not currently have a laptop computer, one will be available for use. If you are a Senior and are interested in participating in WWIA’s computer training courses, please answer this short survey so that we can structure our classes to suit your needs." (From e-newsletter)
Television
CBC and BET show The Porter
Stream full episodes, for free, on CBC Gem: https://watch.cbc.ca/
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IT'S BLACK CHRISTMAS TIME
Jennifer Holness is TVO's Ambassador for Black History Month!
"TVO also has a series of amazing Black films playing the entire month and yours truly has been asked to host the programming. This includes introducing the Toni Morrison doc – The Pieces That I Am, the wonderful Steve McQueen Small Axe series and a bunch more! So, check out TVO to catch my FIRE intros, some great films, and Subject of Desire, this weekend again! Yup, Black Christmas Time!"
BLK: An Origin Story, a series that proclaims
Black history is Canadian history
"BLK: An Origin Story is a four part doc series that looks beyond the Underground Railroad to explore the Untold Stories of Black Canadians from the 1600s to the present. These four hours aim to show that Black History is Canadian History."
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Black Men’s Health Challenge
"Caribbean Vibrations TV in association with Taibu Community Health Centre and the Ministry of Health for the Ontario Government presents The Black Men’s Health Challenge. We have frank discussions about health problems that are facing Black Men. Too many of our men are walking around with hypertension, diabetes and high blood pressure will affect our community and in many cases, the effects can be reversed." (From caribvibetv.com website)
Canfield Roots
Director: Graeme Bachiu
Genre: Lifestyle
"Efforts to protect an abandoned cemetery containing the graves of freedom seekers reveal stories and experiences of some of the Black families who settled in this part of rural southern Ontario."
Genre: Lifestyle
"Efforts to protect an abandoned cemetery containing the graves of freedom seekers reveal stories and experiences of some of the Black families who settled in this part of rural southern Ontario."
Watch the Preview
Episodes
"Episode 1 You’d never know it but the sleepy hamlet of Canfield in Southern Ontario has an interesting history, one that’s been hidden from view for years. Bill Douglas lived in Canfield most of his life and even he’s surprised when local historians begin to reveal his family’s role in Canfield’s rich history of Black ancestry.
Episode 2 As Bill Douglas visits the BME Church Salem Chapel in St. Catharines to learn more about freedom seekers in Ontario his sister Betty Ann confronts her memories of Canfield. Outside the village an abandoned family cemetery containing the grave site of Harriet Tubman’s niece attracts the attention of local historians.
Episode 3 On a cloudless February night in 1953, former Canfield resident Harry Lee was hung for murder in Hamilton, the last man to to be executed at that city’s notorious Barton Jail. Seventy years later, former residents of Canfield reflects on the impact of Lee’s hanging on the village community while Betty Ann Newman grapples with the memory of the man she called Uncle Harry.
Episode 4 An estate sale in Houston, Texas leads a collector to research an artist with a connection to an abandoned family cemetery in Canfield. As more details rise to the surface, an ancestor of Harriet Tubman’s niece shares her family’s remarkable story and link to this cemetery as well.
Episode 5 Frustrated over delays, a group of residents and descendants meet to discuss what to do over an abandoned family cemetery in Canfield, the final resting place of freedom seekers who settled in Canada in the mid-1800s.
Episode 6 As descendants of freedom seekers gather at an abandoned family cemetery to mark Emancipation Day, they reflect on the struggles and successes of their ancestors. In Spokane, Washington Betty Ann Newman shares the stories and photos of her family in Canfield with her grandchildren." (From tv1 website)
Episode 2 As Bill Douglas visits the BME Church Salem Chapel in St. Catharines to learn more about freedom seekers in Ontario his sister Betty Ann confronts her memories of Canfield. Outside the village an abandoned family cemetery containing the grave site of Harriet Tubman’s niece attracts the attention of local historians.
Episode 3 On a cloudless February night in 1953, former Canfield resident Harry Lee was hung for murder in Hamilton, the last man to to be executed at that city’s notorious Barton Jail. Seventy years later, former residents of Canfield reflects on the impact of Lee’s hanging on the village community while Betty Ann Newman grapples with the memory of the man she called Uncle Harry.
Episode 4 An estate sale in Houston, Texas leads a collector to research an artist with a connection to an abandoned family cemetery in Canfield. As more details rise to the surface, an ancestor of Harriet Tubman’s niece shares her family’s remarkable story and link to this cemetery as well.
Episode 5 Frustrated over delays, a group of residents and descendants meet to discuss what to do over an abandoned family cemetery in Canfield, the final resting place of freedom seekers who settled in Canada in the mid-1800s.
Episode 6 As descendants of freedom seekers gather at an abandoned family cemetery to mark Emancipation Day, they reflect on the struggles and successes of their ancestors. In Spokane, Washington Betty Ann Newman shares the stories and photos of her family in Canfield with her grandchildren." (From tv1 website)
Yoga
Check out Oya Heart Warrior's YouTube Channel
Past Black History Events
February 2022
"Explore Early Black History in St. Catharines through the eyes of Freedom Seekers and members of the Black community during the era of the Underground Railroad and beyond. Designed for people of all ages, this virtual program incorporates videos, activities, as well as images and other materials from the Museum Collection."
The Agenda with Steve Paikin on Tuesday February 16, 2021
The Agenda with Steve Paikin discussed a documentary by Hungry Eyes Media "Speakers For The Dead" produced by Jennifer Holness and her husband Sudz Sutherland made in 2001.
Elise Harding-Davis will also be a quest on The Agenda. Elise is the recipient of the Town of Essex 2021 Heritage Preservation Award for her long-time dedication to heritage preservation of Essex County's African Canadian Cemetery Sites (14 to date), seeking an obtaining heritage status from municipal, provincial and federal governments and the promotion and preservation of Black History." Ontario's Hidden Black History
Elise Harding-Davis will also be a quest on The Agenda. Elise is the recipient of the Town of Essex 2021 Heritage Preservation Award for her long-time dedication to heritage preservation of Essex County's African Canadian Cemetery Sites (14 to date), seeking an obtaining heritage status from municipal, provincial and federal governments and the promotion and preservation of Black History." Ontario's Hidden Black History
"This documentary reveals some of the hidden history of Blacks in Canada. In the 1930s in rural Ontario, a farmer buried the tombstones of a Black cemetery to make way for a potato patch. In the 1980s, descendants of the original settlers, Black and White, came together to restore the cemetery, but there were hidden truths no one wanted to discuss. Deep racial wounds were opened. Scenes of the cemetery excavation, interviews with residents and re-enactments—including one of a baseball game where a broken headstone is used for home plate—add to the film's emotional intensity.
Note: This film deals with mature subject matter." (From the National Film Board of Canada website)
Note: This film deals with mature subject matter." (From the National Film Board of Canada website)
(Image courtesy of/& used with permission)
The Ontario Black History Society (OBHS) is a registered Canadian charity, dedicated to the study, preservation and promotion of Black History and heritage.
- BlackedOutHistory Interview on Global News with Natasha Henry
- Interview on Breakfast Television with Mawuli Chai (From Ontario Black History Society website)
#BlackedOutHistory
"In Canada, history is only ever taught one way.
To prove this, we blacked out all of the non-Black history from a 255-page history textbook.
Only 13 pages remained. To demand change, use #BlackedOutHistory."
(From Ontario Black History Society website)
To prove this, we blacked out all of the non-Black history from a 255-page history textbook.
Only 13 pages remained. To demand change, use #BlackedOutHistory."
(From Ontario Black History Society website)
2021 Black History Month Kick-Off
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177 King Street East
Inside the WISH Centre
Chatham, Ontario, Canada
Call (519) 352-3565
Inside the WISH Centre
Chatham, Ontario, Canada
Call (519) 352-3565
The Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society, a Non-Profit Organization, is dedicated to the discovery, research, and preservation of the Black history found in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and the city of Chatham.
(Image courtesy of/& used with permission)
The purpose of the Guelph Black Heritage Society (GBHS) is to preserve the historical significance of the former Guelph British Methodist Episcopal (BME) Church building by creating a cultural, historical and social centre within Guelph and Wellington County
Fourth Friday at the Guelph Civic Museum
"Featuring a musical performance by Aisha Barrow. Lifeandthetribe is the new R&b and Pop project from singer/songwriter Aisha Barrow. Drawing from diverse influences Lifeandthetribe has a bold, fresh, and new sound that that can be best described as an amalgamation of Jazz, R&B, and Pop. After the successful release of their debut EP, Eye-sha: Extended, Lifeandthetribe is currently in process of recording their first full length album, slated for release in 2021."
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2410 Central Ave, Windsor, ON N8W 4J3
(519) 945-0213
(519) 945-0213
WINDSOR WEST INDIAN ASSOCIATION
To provoke brotherhood, morals, social, cultural and educational well-being of all people of the West Indies to enhance and foster good relationship between people of the West Indies and the wider community.
To provoke brotherhood, morals, social, cultural and educational well-being of all people of the West Indies to enhance and foster good relationship between people of the West Indies and the wider community.
Past Emancipation Day Events
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Owen Sound Emancipation Festival Aug. 4-6th 2023
160th Annual Emancipation Festival
July 29 - 31, 2022
"August 1, 2022 will be the second Emancipation Day since Bill M-36 was unanimously passed in the House of Commons to officially recognize this significant day across Canada.
The Emancipation Festival originally called the Emancipation Day Picnic commemorates the British Commonwealth Emancipation Act of August 1, 1834. Since 1862, descendants of those who escaped slavery and found freedom and peace in Canada, gathering in Owen Sound`s beautiful Harrison Park and other places such as the Grey Roots Museum and Archives over the Civic holiday weekend. This is a time for fellowship and reflection with family and community, to share memories, and keep the picnic and other traditions alive for future generations." (From Emancipation Festival website)
The Emancipation Festival originally called the Emancipation Day Picnic commemorates the British Commonwealth Emancipation Act of August 1, 1834. Since 1862, descendants of those who escaped slavery and found freedom and peace in Canada, gathering in Owen Sound`s beautiful Harrison Park and other places such as the Grey Roots Museum and Archives over the Civic holiday weekend. This is a time for fellowship and reflection with family and community, to share memories, and keep the picnic and other traditions alive for future generations." (From Emancipation Festival website)
Past Lectures
A Conversation About Woodstock Wainer Family History
"Join Wainer and Cuffe descendant George Wortham and historian Mary Beth Start for a geographically wide-ranging conversation about the Wainer family and their connections to New York State and Upper Canada. The Wainer family became closely intertwined with Paul Cuffe and his family through marriage, business partnerships and property ownership. The Wainers helped Paul Cuffe build his connections with the Native American community. The Wainer farm is located on Drift Road, Westport. This conversation will focus on Wainer family members who, in the early 1800s, moved to New York State and further afield to Ontario, Canada.
George Hugh Wortham Jr. has collected Wainer family stories, copies of deeds, cemetery locations, family member names, and relationships to pass on to the next generation. George was born and raised in New Bedford and is a Wainer and Cuffe descendant. George moved to Syracuse to start his long sales career and found himself living 30 miles east of his 3rd great-granduncle, Gardner Wainer, and 30 miles west of his 3rd great-grandfather Michael (Micah) Wainer Jr.
Mary Beth Start will contribute information on the families of Thomas and Gardner Wainer focusing on the period following their move to Upper Canada in the late 1820s and early 1830s. She will explore the primary source material available and some of the details that these documents reveal of the Wainers’ experiences in Upper Canada. She will also provide some information on the known descendants of Thomas and Gardner Wainer after 1850.
Mary Beth Start is from Woodstock, Ontario, Canada. Her interest in local history and the Wainer family began as curator of the Norwich and District Historical Society. This interest continued into her graduate studies at the University of Western Ontario where her research focused on the construction of local historical narrative in a rural Canadian Quaker community. She now farms with her family in the Township of Norwich." (From the Westport Historical Society website)
George Hugh Wortham Jr. has collected Wainer family stories, copies of deeds, cemetery locations, family member names, and relationships to pass on to the next generation. George was born and raised in New Bedford and is a Wainer and Cuffe descendant. George moved to Syracuse to start his long sales career and found himself living 30 miles east of his 3rd great-granduncle, Gardner Wainer, and 30 miles west of his 3rd great-grandfather Michael (Micah) Wainer Jr.
Mary Beth Start will contribute information on the families of Thomas and Gardner Wainer focusing on the period following their move to Upper Canada in the late 1820s and early 1830s. She will explore the primary source material available and some of the details that these documents reveal of the Wainers’ experiences in Upper Canada. She will also provide some information on the known descendants of Thomas and Gardner Wainer after 1850.
Mary Beth Start is from Woodstock, Ontario, Canada. Her interest in local history and the Wainer family began as curator of the Norwich and District Historical Society. This interest continued into her graduate studies at the University of Western Ontario where her research focused on the construction of local historical narrative in a rural Canadian Quaker community. She now farms with her family in the Township of Norwich." (From the Westport Historical Society website)
Tribute piece for Wilma Morrison
(Image from the Internet)
PROJECT OVERVIEW:
"The City of Niagara Falls Recreation and Culture Department invites Canadian Black Artists or Black Art Collectives working in any medium to submit one final design concept for a temporary 2D artwork to be digitally reproduced (printed) and installed on the exterior of the Niagara Falls Exchange. This project will commemorate the distinguished and passionate achievements of Wilma Leone Morrison in preserving the history and positive roles the Black Canadians played in Niagara Falls and beyond. The successful artist will receive $5000 plus HST if applicable." (From Niagara Falls Canada website)
Quotes:
(Image from the Internet)
Quote: “If the only time you think of me as a scientist is during Black History Month, then I must not be doing my job as a scientist.” ~ Neil deGrasse Tyson ~
(American astrophysicist, planetary scientist, author & science communicator)
(American astrophysicist, planetary scientist, author & science communicator)
