In recognition of
Black History Month in February, schools in the Halton District School Board have planned events and initiatives to celebrate and honour the contributions of Black Canadians, past and present.
“Black History Month is a tremendous learning opportunity for our students to gain greater understanding of the significant contributions Black Canadians have made to the very fabric of our country," says Stuart Miller, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board. ''This month of recognition provides students and staff in our Board opportunities for deeper learning about the extensive role Black Canadians have played in the settlement, growth and development of Canada. In addition to embedding this learning into classroom instruction throughout the year, Black History Month elevates the ongoing experiences, contributions and achievements of Black Canadians.”
Some of the events taking place at Halton schools to celebrate Black History Month include:
• P.L. Robertson PS (Milton): On February 10, the school will host guest speaker Channon A. Oyeniran, Vice President of the Ontario Black History Society. Oyeniran leads the Looking Back Into the Future Conference, held every February, which focuses on the past, present, and future contributions of Black Canadians locally and globally.
• Maple Grove PS (Oakville): Students participated in assemblies led by Inspiration Republic on January 27. During these presentations, students and staff learned about historical Black Canadian figures who have made significant contributions to the Black community and Canadian culture.
• Robert Bateman HS (Burlington): The school will be hosting former MuchMusic VJ Michael Williams on February 7 for a speaking engagement with students. He will show clips from a short film he and former journalist Jojo Chintoh directed and produced called, Black in Canada: The Obama Effect. The talk will also include Williams’ experiences as a child growing up amidst the civil rights movement in America and his work in the entertainment industry, with a focus on overcoming adversity and discrimination.
• Georgetown District HS (Halton Hills): The school will have a month-long display set up in the school foyer to help students see the connections between historical figures such as Harriet Tubman and Viola Desmond and people and issues that are relevant to students' lives today.
Celebrating Black History Month aligns with the Equity and Well-being goals contained in the Halton District School Board’s Multi-Year Plan. The goal is to ensure every student learns in a respectful culture of high expectations that values diversity, and that students will see themselves reflected in their learning.
For additional information, contact:
Stuart Miller, Director of Education
Halton District School Board
905-335-3663 | Toll-free 1-877-618-3456