Celebrating Black History Month
Black History Month offers an opportunity to celebrate the legacy and ongoing contributions of Black people in Canada and around the world. We live in a time of great transformation; we must use this opportunity to learn, unpack our own knowledge and experiences, and (re)build relationships. Let’s Talk Science recognizes the importance of addressing systemic barriers, confronting anti-Black racism, and building a just and inclusive society. Education is critical to changing the paradigm for future generations and we are committed to helping youth build the core competencies and skills required for their future.
Black History Month started in 1926 to recognize the contributions of African Americans to U.S. history. Why February? The month coincides with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (February 12), the 16th President and the issuer of the Emancipation Proclamation and of Frederick Douglass (February 14), a former slave who escaped, travelled north to freedom and became one of America’s most powerful voices against human bondage (February 14).
In Canada, the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month in 1995. The history of Black people has been grounded in trauma, negativity, and racism. The role and contributions of Black communities has been largely untold and ignored. Black History / Heritage month celebrates Black people and their contribution to history and culture. We are also called to use our resources and expertise to continue to build generations of contributors, knowledge holders and experts for a diverse and richer future.
Through meaningful engagement in STEM, Let’s Talk Science helps youth learn to take educated risks, develop the persistence to find innovative solutions to real-world problems, and acquire competencies required to thrive in an ever-changing world. However, ongoing systemic barriers have meant that too many youth have not had equitable opportunities.
While we are learning, understanding, and renewing our relationships, we know that we are a conduit for change for future generations. At Let’s Talk Science, our core values of collaboration, continuous learning, integrity, future looking and empowering others drive us each day to do more, learn more, collaborate more and look ahead to support youth even more effectively.
As you learn about the contributions, resilience and brilliance of Black Canadians and their community in Canada, what are you reflecting on as a Black person or non-Black relative during this Black Heritage/History month?