The month of February is officially designated Black History Month in Canada and around the world. This is a month to celebrate the numerous accomplishments of Black individuals around the world. Though only officially recognized in 1976, Black History Month has roots in the 1920s. Prominent Black individuals fought passionately for this important recognition, including Carter G. Woodson, Wilson O. Brooks, Dr. Daniel G. Hil, Donald Oliver, and Jean Augustine. In December 1995, the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month in Canada following a motion introduced by the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament, the Honourable Jean Augustine. We celebrate Black History Month here at Sacred Heart by learning, sharing, celebrating and acknowledging. Our initiatives this year included a spirit week with days such as Black Shirt Day to celebrate influential Black leaders, Red, Black, and Green Day to support the pan African community by honouring their vibrant colours, and a Hat Day where students paid to wear a hat and all proceeds went to the Black Youth Hotline. As well, the BSA organized a “Get Real" virtual assembly last Friday that teachers were able to show students, which included an engaging look at Black History in Canada. There was also a workspace dedicated to Black History Month with resources and activities to engage students. The BSA has done an incredible job this past month highlighting Black Excellence. As for you, reader, there’s still more you can do. Reach out to members of the BSA and listen to their voices and experiences, donate, if you’re able, to Black charitable organizations, and commit to doing your part to uplift the stories of Black excellence all around us.
- Kate Cook