Every February, Black History Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black Canadians, past and present, bringing attention to the vital role they have played throughout Canada’s history. Here are some of the festivities in Vancouver to check out.
February 23: Melanin Mixer Vol. 2
In a night dedicated to women of colour, this event will include a panel discussion of local women of colour community leaders, a restorative yoga session, henna tattoos and much more.
- When: Sat, Feb 23 | 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
- Cost: $25
- Where: Werklab Inc. (1275 Venables St, Suite 290)
February 24: Strathcona Heritage Walking Tour and Fountain Chapel Reopening
2019 marks the 100th anniversary of the African Fountain Chapel Vancouver which was central to the African community in Vancouver for decades. This event will also include a tour exploring various historic sites and businesses once owned by those of African descent and the consequences of the urban renewal in 1958.
- When: Sun, Feb 24 | 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- Cost: Free
- Where: 897 Keefer St.
February 24: No Blue Memories – The Life of Gwendolyn Brooks
Both an icon of American literature and the first African-American to win the Pulitzer Prize, poet Gwendolyn Brooks’ legacy will be brought to life onstage my multimedia troupe Manual Cinema. There will also be a pre-show talk with Jillian Christmas, a Vancouver-based activist, as she explores the Black experience. The pre-talk is free for ticket holders of No Blue Memories – The Life of Gwendolyn Brooks and is subject to capacity.
- When: Sun, Feb 24 | 7:00 p.m.
- Cost: $15 for students
- Where: Chan Centre for the Performing Arts
February 25: Film Screening – Mighty Jerome
This documentary tells the inspiring story of Harry Jerome, North Vancouver’s very own athlete, as he journeyed through early challenges of political turbulence and racial conflict to his three Olympics.
- When: Mon, Feb 25 | 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
- Cost: Free
- Where: South Hill Neighbourhood Centre (5888 Fraser Street)
February 26: Black Women in Law
In honour of Black History Month, three black female lawyers visit UBC and share their stories navigating the legal profession.
- When: Tue, Feb 26 | 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
- Cost: Free
- Where: Fasken Classroom (Room 122), Peter A. Allard School of Law
February 26: Black History Month Panel
To wrap up the month, the UBC Black Student Union will be hosting a discussion on what Black History Month in 2019 means to the Black community in Canada and beyond. The event will include special guest scholars and light refreshments will be served.
- When: Tue, Feb 26 | 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Cost: Free
- Where: Media Centre, UBC Global Lounge
February 27: UBC AII Presents: African Studies at UBC Conference
In that past, UBC has attempted to engage and connect with Afro communities such as the case with the African Studies Minor program; however, UBC Africa Awareness Initiative wishes to start an important discussion on what more could be done to academically engage those part of the African diaspora.
- When: Wed, Feb 27 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Cost: Free
- Where: Buchanan B Penthouse
February 28: Afro Festival 2019
Brought to you by a number of UBC and SFU organizations, The Afro Festival is a celebration of the diversity of people of African ancestry and the event aims to foster intercultural exchange and understanding on the complexity of blackness in Vancouver. The event will include free food, performances and a live DJ.
- When: Thu, Feb 28 | 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Cost: Free
- Where: St James Community Square (3214 W 10th Ave)
Check out this list for more Black History Month events happening in Vancouver. For more events to check out at UBC in February. To stay up-to-date with all the campus events, follow @UBCevents.