Celebrating Black History Month, in ways large and small

CBC | Nantali Indongo |

This is the official poster for Montreal’s Black History Month celebrations. (Mois de l’histoire des noirs/Leona Carthy)

CBC’s Arts & Culture contributor Nantali Indongo offers up a few suggestions of events and ways to celebrate

 

Photo of Nantali Indongo
Nantali Indongo is CBC’s Arts & Culture contributor and host of The Bridge. Follow her on Twitter @taliindongo.

 

On the eve of Black History Month, I hung out at the Eaton Centre and McGill Metro station asking Montrealers their thoughts on the significance of the month-long celebration.

Despite my big smile and welcoming demeanour in full-on Quebec winter gear, people ran away from me.

Not because I’m black, silly! They ran from me because the huge microphones covered in stickers we journalists carry can be pretty intimidating.

But I did get people to stop and answer. I spoke to some black Montrealers, but the majority of the people who did chat with me were non-black, and mostly white.

The unifying sentiment in all of the reactions — especially after I explained what Black History Month was all about to some folks — is that there isn’t enough being done to publicize and underline that this is an important time to educate and celebrate.

They all said that it’s everyone’s responsibility to make that happen, especially elected officials, and not exclusively that of African-Canadians in civil society.

Clearly African-Canadian communities take the reins when it comes to celebrations, but if black history is a part of all history, then marking the occasion is everyone’s prerogative.

Acknowledging the month can be done in a vast array of ways, of course, from concerts, dinners, discussions, exhibitions and more.

French filmmaker Amandine Gay’s documentary, Ouvrir la Voix, looks at what it means to be black, female, and francophone in Europe. It screens on Feb. 9 at Cinema du Parc.

But it can be as simple as a tweet wishing everyone a happy Black History Month.

Unfortunately, I had to Google Black History Month Canada to land on the federal government’s Ministry of Heritage page dedicated to the occasion.

And despite the fact that the City of Montreal is honouring black laureates selected by the Mois de l’histoire Noirs committee this afternoon, as far as I could see neither the City of Montreal’s old website nor their beta one had a single word acknowledging the celebration of the month. Bizarre, considering that the city is one of the committee’s official partners.

Dommage, but community groups and organizers are taking advantage of the opportunity to share their stories, highlight their contributions to society and just have a good ol’ time.

Here are few events in the arts scenes that I thought would inspire you to raise the roof for black talent in Montreal this year.

If you’re into visual arts…
Check out Symbols of Resistance: an exhibition celebrating the convergence of black artists and their stories. The vernissage starts at 6 p.m.

The month-long exhibition at Galerie Mile End includes illustrations, paintings as well as woodwork from local, up and coming visual artists.

I’m curious about all of them and I’m already drawn to Valerie Bah, Aïssatou Diallo (whose work is pictured above) and 19-year old Gloria-Sherryl François, who has already shown her work at the Museum of Fine Arts.

This exhibition is presented by The C-FAR (Critical Feminist Activism and Research) project out of Concordia University’s Simone de Beauvoir Institute.

If you love arthouse documentaries…
Check out Ouvrir la Voix, Feb. 9 at Cinema du Parc.

French, Afro-feminist filmmaker Amandine Gay’s documentary looks at what it means to be a black francophone woman in Europe today. Rather than turn to experts to get those answers, she talked to black women she knew to get their personal experiences and their analyses.

The doc is in French with English subtitles.

The focus is strictly on the women: their thoughts as people in the arts and science, as students and activists. Some are Muslim, some are Jewish, some of Caribbean origins, others with origins in Africa.

Filmmaker Amandine Gay talks to black women she knows to get their personal experiences and their analyses in her documentary, Ouvrir la Voix. (Enrico Bartolucci)

Gay’s central characters provide insight into the wide range of questions around black female identity in France and Belgium, questions that — especially in France — are not discussed in academia, in the media, or in politics, but are felt every day, everywhere.

It’s an independent film — Gay and her partner put their own money into making and promoting it. She fought to get media in France to talk about her film, then smashed records for documentary screenings in arthouse theatres in France, Switzerland, and Belgium, in urban centres.

The film sold out, even in rural communities where there were only white farmers in the room.

If you’re hanging out in the West Island…
Check out the Black History Month Brunch, Feb. 18, at the Marcel Morin Community Centre in Pierrefonds.

During this year’s brunch featuring Caribbean cuisine, live music and dance performances, you’ll learn about African-Canadian figures such as Maryanne Shad, Rosemary Brown and Oscar Peterson

You will also learn about the work of Akilah Newton and her non-profit organization Overture with the Arts.

She works year-round to bring arts programming and artists into schools and recently expanded the Black History Month school tour, which her twin brother Omari animates, to schools in Alberta and British Columbia.

Their work is not exclusively about black arts, but in February they do a special school tour in the Montreal area and this year the theme is Triple A: Artists, Athletes and Activists.

If you want to celebrate BHM from home or need other ideas?
The NFB has a great page of 31 films telling black stories in Canada here.

You can head to CBC Books throughout the month for lists dedicated to black literature, especially Canadian authors.

The Mois de l’histoire des Noirs committee is keeping track of a variety events on their website.

But of course social media is the best bet — search Black History Month Montreal on Facebook to find original, local ways to celebrate for the entire month.

 

52 Replies to “Celebrating Black History Month, in ways large and small”

  1. mariakenneth says:

    It’s inspiring to see the diverse range of events celebrating Black History Month in Montreal. Platforms like omegle could serve as spaces for further discussions and amplification of these important narratives.

  2. Duaneflyn says:

    I was impressed with how clear and informative this article was.
    thanks
    papa’s scooperia

  3. Vaughn Vincent says:

    You can expect a thrilling mix of excitement and tension whenever you play Slope Game 3D. Maintaining motion while avoiding hazards and keeping the ball in play is essential for maximizing your score.

  4. Chase Warner says:

    Great post! Flappy Bird

  5. Hi Lo Game says:

    I couldn’t agree more with your point. Great comment!Hi Lo Game

  6. Cecil Wilhite says:

    It’s great to see the City of Montreal recognizing black laureates, but it’s disappointing that their website is silent on such a significant event. Clear communication is essential, especially for a city partnering in celebrating diversity. Perhaps they could take inspiration from interactive platforms like poptropica, which effectively engage their audience. Online presence matters, and it’s crucial for city initiatives to be prominently featured during important cultural moments.

  7.  Bahrain lmra medical result. How do i check my lmra visa status . How do i check my lmra status. Lmra medical check. Lmra complaint number.

  8. Viscoapk says:

    This Black History Month, I’ve been reflecting on the power of storytelling and how important it is to celebrate diverse voices. I recently came across a piece of art that beautifully showcased Black talent in Montreal, and it reminded me of how platforms like **Viscoapk.com** help people express themselves through creative tools, just like the artists featured in these events. Whether it’s through photography, music, or art, celebrating culture in all forms is so important. If you’re looking to enhance your creative projects, check out Viscoapk for VSCO’s premium features, which provide a great way to elevate your photos!

  9. ViSCO APK says:

    This Black History Month, I’ve been reflecting on the power of storytelling and how important it is to celebrate diverse voices. I recently came across a piece of art that beautifully showcased Black talent in Montreal, and it reminded me of how platforms like Viscoapk help people express themselves through creative tools, just like the artists featured in these events. Whether it’s through photography, music, or art, celebrating culture in all forms is so important. If you’re looking to enhance your creative projects, check out Viscoapk for VSCO’s premium features, which provide a great way to elevate your photos!

  10. bazL5tNH says:

    처음엔 믿을 만한 사이트 찾는 게 진짜 어렵더라고요. 저는 운 좋게 신규가입 보너스 주는 사이트에서 시작했는데, 리스크 없이 체험할 수 있어서 괜찮았어요. 먹튀

  11. rMRm8KBv says:

    처음엔 믿을 만한 사이트 찾는 게 진짜 어렵더라고요. 저는 운 좋게 신규가입 보너스 주는 사이트에서 시작했는데, 리스크 없이 체험할 수 있어서 괜찮았어요. 먹튀

  12. r23Aw2dB says:

    처음엔 믿을 만한 사이트 찾는 게 진짜 어렵더라고요. 저는 운 좋게 신규가입 보너스 주는 사이트에서 시작했는데, 리스크 없이 체험할 수 있어서 괜찮았어요. 먹튀

  13. JqijAb22 says:

    처음엔 믿을 만한 사이트 찾는 게 진짜 어렵더라고요. 저는 운 좋게 신규가입 보너스 주는 사이트에서 시작했는데, 리스크 없이 체험할 수 있어서 괜찮았어요. 먹튀

  14. YR0egGs6 says:

    처음엔 믿을 만한 사이트 찾는 게 진짜 어렵더라고요. 저는 운 좋게 신규가입 보너스 주는 사이트에서 시작했는데, 리스크 없이 체험할 수 있어서 괜찮았어요. 먹튀

  15. WQAM6x4v says:

    처음엔 믿을 만한 사이트 찾는 게 진짜 어렵더라고요. 저는 운 좋게 신규가입 보너스 주는 사이트에서 시작했는데, 리스크 없이 체험할 수 있어서 괜찮았어요. 먹튀

  16. If you’re a fan of intense storylines and stunning visuals, you should definitely Read One Piece Manga. It’s a great place to stay updated with the latest chapters and immerse yourself in the world of manga!

  17. If you’re a fan of intense storylines and stunning visuals, you should definitely Dive into Chainsaw Man. It’s a great place to stay updated with the latest chapters and immerse yourself in the world of manga

  18. If you’re a fan of intense storylines and stunning visuals, you should definitely Follow Blue Lock Manga. It’s a great place to stay updated with the latest chapters and immerse yourself in the world of manga

  19. Anyone using iPhone should visit Stumble Guys iOS—easy install and works like a charm

  20. If you’re into personality frameworks, Enneagram Types offers a simple and insightful breakdown of all 9 Enneagram types. It’s a great starting point for anyone exploring self-awareness and emotional growth

  21. 超越新聞網為香港一間網絡新聞媒體,致力於以新聞專業的立場深度分析大中華地區及社會各類專題故事。

  22. 0bH2svCF says:

    처음엔 믿을 만한 사이트 찾는 게 진짜 어렵더라고요. 저는 운 좋게 신규가입 보너스 주는 사이트에서 시작했는데, 리스크 없이 체험할 수 있어서 괜찮았어요. 먹튀

  23. Heatalk says:

    閒聊為三五知己共同打造的網站,留下人生點滴,在互聯網上逐浪,享受無邊的思想碰撞帶來的樂趣。

  24. XvBA2lIx says:

    처음엔 믿을 만한 사이트 찾는 게 진짜 어렵더라고요. 저는 운 좋게 신규가입 보너스 주는 사이트에서 시작했는데, 리스크 없이 체험할 수 있어서 괜찮았어요. 먹튀

  25. Uno Online says:

    This is concerning! It’s vital Montreal acknowledge Black History Month, especially given their partnership. Their silence contradicts the city’s supposed commitment to diversity. Are other official partners amplifying the message? Perhaps a collective campaign is needed, like a fun Uno Online tournament to raise awareness and funds? Shared effort could make a real difference.

  26. NTDvNU09 says:

    ❤️❤️❤️“CNFANS Prada Down Jacket Spreadsheet Update: PRADA 2025 Winter Down Jacket Stock Alert, Pre-order Now

  27. jxj4OYA0 says:

    " cnfans Spreadsheet Recommendation! DENIM TEARS' Indigo Memory' Best Batch🌊

  28. nFKwd9b5 says:

    This is the best pair of adidas CAMPUS00s. I bought them on cnfans spreadsheet, and they have already arrived. I am so satisfied with them.

  29. 6RNZZ0fo says:

    * 한정판 아이템을 획득할 수 있는 절호의 기회! [아이템 보기](https://coe.cau.ac.kr/uploaded/)

  30. Z2W1Au2V says:

    * 이벤트에 참여하고 특별한 보상을 받으세요. [이벤트 참여](https://meta.cau.ac.kr/bbs/)

  31. u223kCCp says:

    당신의 손안에서 펼쳐지는 화려한 게임의 향연. 바로 플레이

  32. ZvZXJXGd says:

    통쾌한 잭팟의 주인공이 될 시간입니다. 바로가기

  33. Fv398hjh says:

    The game that’s perfect for everyone. Join Now

  34. 47ZpkF5u says:

    The ultimate card and pinball experience. Play Today

  35. OdLpUqAP says:

    The perfect game for every player. Start Playing

  36. CwZnWN3E says:

    Experience the best graphics and gameplay. Play Now

  37. cdW9ZkrB says:

    최고 수준의 보안 시스템으로 안심하고 즐기세요. 당신의 정보와 자산은 안전하게 보호됩니다. 입장하기

  38. Ti7jr7TD says:

    당신의 운명을 바꿀 한 번의 클릭. 입장하기

  39. 7VKvm7hW says:

    The game that’s always a good time. Sign Up

  40. N2ey9DSx says:

    당신의 게임 본능을 깨워줄 단 하나의 게임. 바로가기

  41. xnbQEPnz says:

    지금 가입하고 특별한 혜택을 누리세요. 당신의 첫 시작을 풍성하게 만들어줄 것입니다. 지금 참여

  42. 44XOlJW6 says:

    The ultimate gaming challenge. Play Now

  43. 2ifdWz3c says:

    통쾌한 팡팡과 함께 잭팟의 행운을 잡으세요. 당신의 운명을 바꿀 기회가 여기에 있습니다. 입장하기

  44. WpU4cc6u says:

    지금 가입하고 특별한 혜택을 누리세요. 지금 참여

  45. uYQw4Mp3 says:

    숨 막히는 긴장감과 상쾌한 승리감. 당신의 모든 감각을 깨울 최고의 게임 경험을 선사합니다. 바로가기

  46. i6RArWCC says:

    잊지 못할 승리의 경험을 지금 만들어보세요. 당신의 게임 인생에 한 획을 그을 순간입니다. 게임 참여

  47. gL4hoeUw says:

    슬롯볼의 쾌감, 카드 게임의 스릴! 한 게임에서 두 가지 재미를 모두 즐길 수 있습니다. 바로가기

  48. l9Kv635Z says:

    첫 충전 시, 특별 보상 지급! 혜택 받기

  49. s4LFUyIz says:

    당신의 전략이 빛을 발하는 곳, 지금 경험하세요. 전 세계의 플레이어들과 실력을 겨루며 당신의 게임 실력을 뽐내보세요. 지금 시작하기

  50. qjuwmdsC says:

    잊지 못할 짜릿함을 선사합니다. 당신의 모든 감각을 깨울 최고의 게임 경험을 선사합니다. 지금 시작하기

  51. Vk0gygLL says:

    최고의 스릴과 재미를 선사합니다. 당신의 심장이 멎을 듯한 흥분을 선사합니다. 게임 참여

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Share

RCI • Radio Canada International

Luc Simard – Director of Diversity and Relations. Radio-Canada

Vidéos

Your opinion on Black History Month

Black History Month is only celebrated in North America and in the UK. Do you think it should be celebrated all over the world?

View Results

Loading ... Loading ...