February is Black History Month.
And with that comes a rich, month-long mosaic of events and opportunities to help us all better understand and appreciate the long and complex history of Black communities across Canada, including Simcoe County.
Here’s some of what’s planned in Bradford and Innisfil over the next few weeks:
Flag raising in Bradford
Join Town of Bradford officials and Rise Up BWG on Sunday, Feb. 4 at 3 p.m. for the Black History Month flag raising in the courthouse courtyard at 57 Holland St. E. There will be a proclamation read, African drumming by Yohance, and a speech from Coun. Cheraldean Duhaney, who was recently recognized among the country’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch 2023 by Canada International Black Women of Excellence.
Youth art exhibit
Canvas for Change: Black Youth Art Showcase, is currently on display at the Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library (425 Holland St. W.). The group exhibition features 20 works from nine Simcoe County youths ranging in age from 13 to 18. Organized by Making Change, the exhibit pushed the teenagers to conceptualize and visually represent ideas unique to their own stories and perspectives, under the mentorship of Toronto artist Ashante Blackwood. The exhibit stays at the library until Feb. 11, then it moves to Barrie’s MacLaren Art Centre from Feb. 15 to 29.
Educational talk
On Feb. 17 at 2:30 p.m., join Parents Against Racism Simcoe County at the Lakeshore branch of the Innisfil ideaLAB and Library (967 Innisfil Beach Rd.) for a free educational talk on the vibrant Black history of the region. Learn about the Underground Railroad stops, and the meaning behind names like Tecumseth and Washago at this interactive workshop. You can register at innisfil.bibliocommons.com.
Virtual talk with bestselling author
The Innisfil library will also host a virtual conversation with New York Times bestselling author Jason Mott about his recent novel, Hell of a Book. This work of fiction addresses racism, police violence and the hidden costs exacted upon Black Americans and America as a whole. The event is Feb. 20 from 4 to 5 p.m. To register, visit libraryc.org.
Radiant Roots
This actually takes place in March, but it’s a good one that easily warrants inclusion here. Radiant Roots, Making Change’s first Black cultural expo, will take place at the Lakeshore branch. The event runs March 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It features craft, jewellery, clothing, spice and cuisine vendors. There will be music by DJ Maxx, a fashion show at noon and a performance by musician Aliza Blair at 1 p.m.
