Black History Month

On January 27, the Black Cultural Society of PEI (BCSPEI) launched Black History Month 2024, a celebration of the rich tapestry of cultures that form the Island’s Black community. Black History Month, observed every February, is a time to honour Black heritage, achievements, and pivotal events in the timeline of Black populations throughout history.

This year’s theme, “Community as the Way Forward,” underscores the importance of unity, collaboration, and shared aspirations within the Black community on PEI. The theme aims to inspire reflection on the collective strength that the community brings, forging a path forward guided by a shared commitment to progress.

BCSPEI Executive Director Tamara Steele expressed the significance of the theme: “‘Community as the Way Forward’ symbolizes our commitment to collective growth and empowerment. We acknowledge the strength derived from community ties and recognize the pivotal role it plays in shaping our shared future.”

The community-centric approach aligns with “Sankofa,” last year’s theme, and continues the journey of looking back to guide the future. In the spirit of Sankofa, “Community as the Way Forward” emphasizes the importance of harnessing the collective wisdom and power within the community.

Reequal Smith, the Program Coordinator responsible for planning events and activities throughout the month, highlighted the flagship events: panel discussions, lectures, and community group meetups. These gatherings will provide community members with a platform to discuss their lived experiences, focusing on emerging topics related to the theme, history, culture, and aspirations for the future.

“We are collaborating with community members to address themes such as mental health and wellbeing, skills development, educational excellence, support for local Black businesses and artists, and advocacy for representation in PEI,” Smith explained.

Reequal will also lead educational sessions in Island schools for Black History Month. These sessions aim to enhance collaborations and create a space for Black individuals to teach their histories and share their stories in their own words.

Flag raisings will occur at city and town halls in Three Rivers, Cornwall, Borden-Carleton, and in multiple locations in Charlottetown.

President of the BCSPEI Board of Directors Claire Byrne emphasized the importance of the Pan-African Flag as a unifying symbol for members of the African Diaspora. “Raising the Pan-African Flag in municipalities across PEI signifies our unity, acknowledging our history, celebrating today, and fostering hope for our future.”

Other activities will include lunch conversations, talks, and presentations on Black history, activity kits and storytelling for children, and a film screening. 

The Black Cultural Society of PEI is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for the growing Black community on PEI and the descendants of Black Islanders. BCSPEI’s vision is to shape the future by preserving heritage, promoting racial equity, and creating partnerships for the development and success of the Black community in PEI.

The full schedule of Black History Month activities can be found on page A2 of The Buzz. Follow @blackculturalsocietypei on FB and IG, or visit bcspei.ca for updates.