Black History Month in Edmonton

Premier Rachel Notley offers official recognition of Black History Month in Alberta for the first time.

For the first time, Black History Month is an officially-recognized event here. The Alberta government recently acknowledged the month, as part of the first events happening in Edmonton this February. We’re the fourth province to give it an official recognition.

The University of Alberta has an informative and timely article on why Black History Month may still not be very visible, yet has an important place in our history here between the prairies and mountains. (As a privileged white guy, I can’t recommend this explanation more, as it’s a great introduction to some of the history forgotten here.)

Secret Alberta: The Former Life of Amber Valley is a new documentary looking at an all-Black community settled in our province more than 100 years ago.

If you’d like to learn more, understand more and take part in events with some of your neighbours, here are just a few places to look for opportunities.

The National Black Coalition of Canada Society has an event tomorrow night on Black history of Alberta, and other events through February. The event Friday evening is facilitated by Bashir Mohamed, who has been a visible critic of racism in Edmonton the past year.

The Council of Canadians of African and Caribbean Heritage has a number of events too, including the AfroQuiz, which is a family-friendly event aimed at kids and teens, and African Fashion Week.

And Metro Cinema has movies scheduled throughout the month, including the critically-acclaimed Moonlight and I Am Not Your Negro.