February 8, 2011: Halton District School Board is celebrating Black History Month, which happens in the month of February.
Schools have started 19 days of learning with a daily announcement about an influential Canadian black person and a biography about the individual to underscore their important contributions to a diverse Canadian society. Some of the names include Robert Nathaniel Dett, a composer, pianist and choral director; Hariet Tubman, who worked secretly to help people into Canada from America via the Underground Railway; and Saskatchewan’s Harry Jerome, a former world record holder in the 100-metre sprint.
All schools have received posters acknowledging Black History Month. In addition, there will be displays in hallways and libraries, helping students celebrate important contributions of black people and better understanding their communities. On Sunday, February 6 the Board secured 50 tickets for students to attend a celebration brunch in Burlington where Canada Post unveiled a Black History Month stamp.
Other events taking place at Board schools include Abbey Park High School (1455 Glen Abbey Gate) hosting tomorrow (Wednesday, February 9) a visit from Fergie Jenkins, as part of the school’s tribute to Black History Month. The first of two assemblies takes place at 9:30 a.m. Jenkins is an inductee into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame (1987) and the National Baseball Hall of Fame (1991). In 2007, Jenkins received the Order of Canada. He will also be honoured on a Canada Post stamp to commemorate Black History Month. The stamp will be available for purchase at Abbey Park High School, as well as autographed memorabilia.
In 1995, February was officially designated Black History Month by Canadian Parliament. This is a month where we can celebrate the contributions and experiences of the Black communities in Canada.
For additional information, contact:
Suzanne Muir, Equity and Inclusive Education Coordinator
Halton District School Board
(905) 335-3663, Toll free: 1 877 618-3456