Celebrating Black History Month in Vaughan!
Black Canadians and communities have been vital in shaping Canada’s heritage, culture and identity. The City of Vaughan has proclaimed February as Black History Month, a celebration that brings communities together to pay tribute to the remarkable Black Canadians who have made a positive and enduring impact in the community, and highlights the richness of Black cultures and histories.
Here are some of the many ways you can celebrate Black History Month in Vaughan:
Come to the annual Black History Month event
On Saturday, Feb. 22 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., the City invites everyone to celebrate with the
Mayor and Members of Council in the Vaughan City Hall atrium (2141 Major Mackenzie Dr.). Join us for official remarks, Afro-Caribbean and urban dances, drum performances, complimentary refreshments and more.
The event will also feature Black-owned and Black-led businesses, organizations and creatives, providing a platform to showcase their work and engage with others.
Pre-registration is encouraged. Confirm your attendance for the event online.
To learn more about the City’s annual Black History Month event and other programs offered throughout the month, visit vaughan.ca/culture.
Participate in Vaughan Public Libraries’ Black History Month programming
In celebration of Black History Month, Vaughan Public Libraries is pleased to present the NFB film Sounds & Pressure: Reggae in a Foreign Land. Follow the journeys of Toronto reggae icons, from Kingston to Kensington Market, to see and hear how reggae made roots in Canada against all odds. This film will be screening in select libraries throughout the month of February.
VPL is also offering an exciting lineup of programs to honour and celebrate Black authors, musicians and culinary experts:
Nigerian pepper soup workshop
- Learn about Nigerian cooking and ingredients as you make Pepper Soup at the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Library (200 Apple Mill Rd.) in the Vaughan Studios & Event Space teaching kitchen on Sunday, Feb. 16 at 1 p.m.
Aging Well Club: drum circle
- On Thursday, Feb. 20 at 11 a.m., join the Aging Well Club for a drum circle led by renowned musician Glenn Marais at Ansley Grove Library (350 Ansley Grove Rd.).
Author Visit: Sadé Smith
- Local author Sadé Smith will be visiting the Civic Centre Resource Library (2191 Major Mackenzie Dr.) on Thursday, Feb. 27 at 10 a.m. for a lively, interactive story time in celebration of Black History Month as she reads her picture book, Granny's Kitchen.
Want to learn more about these events and how to sign up? Visit VPL’s website or check out the latest edition of What's On (PDF) to discover more online programs and resources to enrich, inspire and transform your life! All you need is a library card – get yours today!
QUOTE
“Every February, we celebrate Black History Month – a time to honour and recognize Black Canadians and their amazing contributions to our country’s culture and heritage. Black History Month is an opportunity to learn about Black Canadians’ complex histories, cultural diversity and rich traditions. Together with diverse Black communities, we continue to engage in meaningful dialogue to ensure their voices are part of our decision-making process. I look forward to celebrating Vaughan’s Black community on Saturday, Feb. 22 at our annual Black History Month event at City Hall. I hope you’ll join us to watch some incredible performances and enjoy delicious foods. On behalf of everyone at the City, I wish you a happy Black History Month.”
- Mayor Steven Del Duca
QUICK FACTS
- The City of Vaughan recognizes Black History Month annually with an event and official proclamation.
- This year’s event is on Saturday, Feb. 22 at 2 p.m. in the Vaughan City Hall atrium (2141 Major Mackenzie Dr.).
- Vaughan Public Libraries is hosting Black History Month events at select libraries throughout the month of February.
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