Post-Secondary institutions in Lethbridge celebrating Black History Month
“I think for us this year’s Black History Month is really about creating an authentic culture of black inclusion and we really want to make sure that whatever their experiences or stories, our students feel represented on our campus.” , said Mathurin-Moe. “So for us, it’s not just about talking about their stories, it’s actually about creating a safe space to celebrate the different identities. That’s why it’s important for us to do this on campus.”
Mathurin-Moe further stated that the year 2023 brought the highest number of international students at U of L ever seen at U of L and described it as a very diverse and vibrant mosaic.
In November 2018, the U of L joined 40 universities from across Canada to support the Scarborough Charter, a commitment to eradicating anti-black racism and promoting black inclusion in Canadian education.
Throughout the month, the U of L will host virtual fireside chats, speakers, presentations, cafe talks and sell Black History Month t-shirts in the bookstore, with funds going to the University of Lethbridge Black Students Association, a new group which ratified on campus this year.
Mathurin-Moe continued, “In celebration of this year’s Black History Month, I encourage everyone to continue learning about the many scholars, innovators, cultural icons and activists who make the pillars of Black Excellence and Black Joy in are Canada and around the world.”
Find out more about Black History Month events taking place on the University of Lethbridge website.
At Lethbridge College, staff, students and the Lethbridge College Student Union (LCSA) kicked off Black History Month by announcing various campus events.
Over the next four weeks, students can participate in Black History Month Jeopardy, a cultural clothing day, library exhibits, informational booths, and presentations from special guests, including alumni Moji Taiwo, an author, retired civil servant, and creator and host of The Immigrant Experience Show.
Lethbridge College culinary students and teachers will also be offering specialties including gumbo soup with black beans and sausage, jollof rice pilaf, peri-peri chicken and jerk chicken at the food court in February.
In addition to the traditional treats, the LCSA will take the time to prepare and distribute dozens of Nigerian beef stew meal kits that include recommendations for black history films and books.
Ibrahim Turay, Lethbridge College Lecturer, said in a press release: “Black History Month celebrates peoples of African descent, their achievements and contributions, but also their ongoing struggles for survival in colonial settler societies like Canada.”
“Although often subtle, hatred based on race, color and religion continues to be a problem in our communities. As a post-secondary institution, we have a role to play in promoting education and understanding, and these difficult discussions should also be at the heart of Black History Month celebrations,” added Turay.
Find out more about Black History Month events taking place on campus on Lethbridge College’s website.
Those interested in learning more about notable Black Canadians, significant events in Canadian history, or finding additional educational resources can do so on the Government of Canada website.
Read more: LethbridgeNewsNow.com
