Month: February 2025

Building Belonging- diversity, Special Days/Weeks/Months

Black History Month

mrsbinthelibrary1

Celebrating Black History Month in the Library

February is Black History Month, a time to recognize, honor, and celebrate the contributions of Black Canadians and individuals worldwide. This year’s theme, Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations, encourages us to reflect on the impact of Black leaders throughout history and to inspire the next generation.

Exploring Black Canadian History

Black Canadians have played a vital role in shaping our country’s culture, society, and history. From Viola Desmond’s stand against racial segregation to the artistic achievements of Oscar Peterson, their contributions continue to enrich our nation. This month provides an opportunity to highlight these stories, amplify Black voices, and encourage learning beyond the month of February. This month, I invite you to explore, read, and learn together. Let’s celebrate Black history—not just in February, but every day.

Here are some resources for your families:

  • Ontario Museum Association’s Black History Month Events
    Explore events, exhibitions, and tours celebrating Black History Month 2025 across Ontario.
    Visit their website
  • Canada.ca – Organizations and Educational Resources on the History of Black Communities in Canada
    This government resource provides a comprehensive list of organizations and educational materials dedicated to preserving and promoting Black Canadian history.
    Visit the resource
  • Canada’s History – Black History Educational Package
    This educational package offers lessons that encourage students to explore Afro-Indigenous ancestry and the role of media in expressing ideas about justice and ethnicity.
    Explore the package
  • Facing History and Ourselves Canada – Black History Month Resources
    A collection of on-demand webinars and resources to support learning about Black history and its relevance today.
    View the resources
  • “#BlackInSchool” by Habiba Cooper Diallo
    A memoir that provides insight into the experiences of a Black student navigating the Canadian school system.
    Find it on 49th Shelf
  • “The Journey of Little Charlie” by Christopher Paul Curtis
    A historical novel that explores themes of slavery and freedom through the eyes of a young boy.
    Available on Amazon
  • “Trailblazers: The Black Pioneers Who Have Shaped Canada” by Tiyahna Ridley-Padmore
    A collection of stories highlighting the achievements of Black Canadians throughout history.
    Available on Amazon
“Malaika’s Costume” by Nadia L. Hohn

Enjoy the vibrant tale of Malaika’s Carnival preparations in this read-aloud:

  • The Imago Dei (Image of God) – Every person, regardless of race or background, is created in God’s image and has inherent worth and value (Genesis 1:27).
  • Justice and Righteousness – The Bible calls believers to “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God” (Micah 6:8). Recognizing and addressing historical injustices aligns with God’s heart for justice.
  • Unity in Christ – In Christ, we are one body, and we are called to love one another deeply (Galatians 3:28, John 13:34-35). The church is enriched by the contributions of Black Christians throughout history.
  • Remembering and Learning from History – Scripture calls us to remember and learn from the past (Deuteronomy 6:12, Psalm 78:4-7). Black History Month is a time to reflect on the perseverance, faith, and contributions of Black individuals, especially those who have shaped the church and the world.

Black History and the Church

Throughout history, Black Christians have played a crucial role in spreading the gospel, fighting for justice, and strengthening the global church. Some key figures include:

  • Augustine of Hippo (354–430) – A North African theologian whose writings shaped Christian doctrine.
  • Phillis Wheatley (1753–1784) – An enslaved woman who became the first published Black poet and used her writing to reflect on faith. Portrait of Phillis Wheatley, attributed by some scholars to Scipio Moorhead
  • Harriet Tubman (1822–1913) – Known as the “Moses” of her people, she was a devout Christian who trusted God in her mission to free enslaved individuals through the Underground Railroad. Portrait photo of Harriet Tubman
  • Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. (1929–1968) – A Baptist pastor and leader in the Civil Rights Movement who championed justice through peaceful activism, guided by Christian principles. Black and white portrait of Martin Luther King Jr. wearing a suit

How to Engage in Black History Month as Christians

  1. Pray for Racial Reconciliation and Justice – Ask God to heal racial divides, bring justice, and help us reflect His love.
  2. Read Stories of Black Christians – Explore biographies and writings of influential Black theologians, missionaries, and leaders.
  3. Incorporate Diverse Voices in Worship and Study – Include hymns, spirituals, and sermons from Black Christian traditions.
  4. Act Justly and Love Others – Support initiatives that promote justice and seek ways to uplift and encourage diverse communities.

What a wonderful opportunity for us to live out our school theme for this year- “Walk with Jesus!”