The very successful organization of London’s Black History Month events prove that it’s time to revise the derogatory cliché about design by committee. With input from numerous groups in the London area, and under the aegis of the London Black History Coordinating Committee, this celebration has proven to be a crowd-pleaser for the past several years. Londoners can anticipate numerous special activities and performances during the upcoming 8th Annual Black History Month, this February.
The roots of this event go back to 1929, when historian Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week. Initiatives by the Canadian Negro Women’s Association in the 1950′s, and later by the Ontario Black History Society, among others, have led to BHM being celebrated across the country each February.
The ongoing efforts of numerous Londoners contribute to the success of our local celebrations. Many are unsung members of diverse groups across the city. Michelle Edwards is to be credited with bringing together the many groups and volunteers, as well as supporting partners that include the City of London, the London Public Library, the University of Western Ontario, Museum London, and the Cross Cultural Learner Centre.
Speaking on behalf of the London Black History Coordinating Committee, Christina Lord explains that exposure to and involvement in BHM events is empowering for Black youth, in that it highlights positive aspects of the Black experience, acquaints them with strong role models, and strengthens their connection to the community. As well, Londoners of all ages and cultures can enjoy experiences that are both educational and engaging.
This year’s theme is “Celebrating the Family”, and opportunities abound to learn about the community’s diverse histories, cultures, and personalities. The opening celebration will be held January 30, from 2-5 p.m. at Museum London. A new exhibit offers portrayals of local Black communities, and arts, crafts and music will be presented in the Community Gallery. Admission is free.
At the London Regional Children’s Museum the focus is on family. Visitors will enjoy games, stories, music, and hands-on activities, as well as the opportunity to sample African and Caribbean foods.
The Closing Gala is always a lively and well-attended affair. Held at the Wolf Performance Hall, this year’s gala will be take place on Thursday, February 25th. Featured performers include Denise Pelley, Marque Smith and Janis Mark, electric Soul, Saidat, Rwandan Dancers, and Steel Drums. The Gala is also the occasion for the presentation of awards to two outstanding Black Community Achievers.
Between the opening and closing celebrations are many other activities, events and performances. For details of events, please refer to the links below.
Embrace this opportunity to participate in 2010’s Black History Month. All Londoners are welcome.
Photo: Members of the Rwandan Dance Troupe, based in London.
They performed at the closing gala for Black History Month 2009 at Wolf Hall, Central Library. (Zivai Muvuti/Insider)
The London Cross Cultural Learner Centre
Marilyn Cook: 519-432-1133 ext. 240
http://www.lcclc.org/bhm_background.html
Museum London
519-661-0333
http://www.museumlondon.ca/
London Children’s Museum
21 Wharncliffe Road South
http://www.londonchildrensmuseum.ca/
Christina Lord: 519-850-9997 or
Dhira: 519-434-5726
Wolf Performance Hall, London Public Library
251 Dundas Street
1-800-265-1593
http://www.londonpubliclibrary.ca/
Congress of Black Women of Canada, London Ontario Chapter
www.cbwlondon.org
Ontario Black History Society
http://www.blackhistorysociety.ca
