Though the impact, resiliency, and cultural influence of the Black Diaspora is something we should be thinking about year-round, Black History Month is an extra significant time for us to come together as a community to reflect on both the bad–continued systemic racism and violence against Black people–and the good–Black activism, legacy, community building, and innovation.
This year, in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, most of Ottawa’s Black History Month events are once again online. Events kicked off January 29th and range from special panels to informative webinars. Here’s a list of upcoming events–we will update this list regularly throughout the month so stay tuned!
February 18, 2022
Love drag, music and poetry? Enjoy all that and more at the Queer Black Excellence Showcase! Presented in partnership by Capital Pride and TD, this event will take place both in-person and online, so it is accessible to all. The show will feature performances by Kendall Gender of Canada’s Drag Race, Blk Prl, Aimee Yonce Shennel and more.
Where: Horticulture Building (Lansdowne) & Online
When: Feb. 18, 2022, 8-9:30pm
RSVP: Free or with donation via Eventbrite
Image: Capital Pride
February 22, 2022
Presented by Arts Connect Ottawa, this virtual arts event celebrates Black talent and culture. There will be live music, dance and more. The event is free to stream and open to all!
Where: Online via Arts Connect Ottawa website
When: Feb. 22, 2022, 7-10pm
RSVP: N/A
Image: Arts Connect Ottawa
February 23, 2022
Born into slavery in Kentucky, Paul Barber, was one of Ottawa’s earliest Black permanent residents. Barber was a renowned horse trainer and founded a family that has made its mark on the city for over a century. Join historian, and Barber’s grandson, Thomas Barber as he shared stories of his family’s legacy and their far-reaching role in the National Capital.
Where: Zoom
When: Feb. 23rd, 2022, 7 pm
RSVP: Free via Historical Society of Ottawa
Image: Barber Family Collection via Thomas Barber
February 25, 2022
For the fourth year in a row, the Afro Caribbean Mentorship Program (ACMP) will celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of the community. This year’s event is hosted in partnership with Black-owned Winnipeg-based apparel brand Zueike and will feature keynote speakers like MP Greg Fergus, live music, and more.
Where: Zoom
When: Sunday, Feb. 25th, 7 – 9:30 pm
RSVP: Free via Eventbrite
Image: ACMP
February 26, 2022
Learn all about the arts of hip hop and graffiti! Award-winning Ottawa muralist and educator Jimmy Baptiste will lead this workshop where he will educate participants about the technique and style of the graffiti and the influence hip hop has on it. Baptiste will also guide participants through a workshop where they can make their very own graffiti pieces.
Where: Zoom
When: Saturday, Feb. 26th, 10 – 11:30am
RSVP: Free via Ottawa Public Library
Image: Ottawa Public Library
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Photo: Black History Ottawa
