Throughout February, schools across VSB have been engaged in learning about the voices, contributions and histories of Black communities both locally and globally. While the month has focused our attention on Black history, educators at VSB continue to teach anti-racism and acceptance as well as instill an appreciation for Black history and culture throughout the year.

Events

Black Excellence Day

In the lead up to Black History Month, Norquay Elementary joined students from 17 districts across the province for a Black Excellence Day event on January 15. Hosted by the Burnaby School District with sponsorship from the Ninandotoo Society, the Black Excellence event featured Black Canadians who excelled in their chosen fields. Speakers included BC Provincial Court Judge David St. Pierre and former Olympian and political activist, Valerie Jerome. A video featuring Norquay students sharing their learning on Black Excellence was played at the event!

Blackathon at Ethos Lab

On February 21, students from David Lloyd George Elementary, John Oliver Secondary and  Killarney Secondary will participate in Ethos Lab’s Black-a-thon. At this event, “participants will learn about a Black inventor and hack their invention. Each group will have access to a mentor from Microsoft, EA or Centre for Digital Media, who will help them complete the project.”

DJ O Show at Hamber

This student-led event scheduled on February 27 at Hamber Secondary, will feature DJ O Show who will share her lessons and lived experience as an Afro Indigenous Hip Hop and R&B DJ. DJ O Show will also play a set, showcasing skill and musicality on the turntable.

Black History Month at Van Tech

On the morning of February 28, Vancouver Technical Secondary will welcome grades 6 and 7 students from wək̓ʷan̓əs tə syaqʷəm, Maquinna, Mount Pleasant, Queen Alexandra, Secord, šxʷəxʷaʔəs Thunderbird and Queen Victoria Annex to hear from Eden Belle O’Neill, Founder of Black Queen Collective, a non-profit organization that offers support and sisterhood for Black teen girls.

In the afternoon, students will learn from VSB’s anti-racism and diversity, equity and inclusion specialist, Destine Lord as well as District anti-racism teacher Nigel Amenu Tekaa. Van Tech alum, 2024 Valedictorian and current UBC student Nola Charles will also share insights with students.

Resources

VSB’s equity and anti-oppression team compiled a diverse set of resources for educators to use with their elementary and secondary students. Some highlights include:

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed
(Primary/Intermediate)

A picture book inspired by the life of Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to travel in space. Kindergarten and Grade 1 students love dancing at the end of the book and searching for Mae’s cat throughout the text.

The ABCs of Black History by Rio Cortez
(Primary/Intermediate/Secondary)

The illustrated picture book introduces students to people like James Baldwin, Mae Jamison and W.E.B. Du Bois. It can be used by educators as a springboard for discussion and inquiry.

Kayak Magazine’s Black History in Canada edition
(Primary/Intermediate)

The Black History in Canada edition of Kayak, features guest co-editor Natasha Henry, a Canadian scholar and professor of African Canadian History. It shares stories and examples of the ways Black Canadians built and shaped the country.

Secret Vancouver: Return to Hogan’s Alley
(Secondary)

This short documentary delves into the history of a vibrant Black community as a hotbed of historic jazz music. Hogan’s Alley was situated in Vancouver’s Strathcona neighbourhood and faced near erasure due to urban renewal.