The 2024 theme for Black History Month is: “Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build”. Students had the opportunity to focus on and celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black individuals and Black communities across Canada.
The Elementary Student Activity Council cited quotes and real-life events of African Canadians and African Americans in special announcements regarding Acts of Kindness and our school librarian explored narratives of Black History Month by reading books with our students including More than Peach by Bellen Woodard (Gr. 1-3), Counting on Katherine by Helaine Becker (Gr. 4 & 5), and Meet Viola Desmond by Elizabeth Macleod (Gr. 7 & 8).
On Thursday, February 29th the grades 4-8 students had a special presentation from guest speaker, Jamaal Myers, City of Toronto Councillor and current chair of the Toronto Transit Commission. Councillor Myers spoke of his trials and tribulations and how he overcame them to eventually become a successful City Councillor. We thank Councillor Myers for taking the time from his busy schedule to give his motivational presentation to our students!
Each week in our High School classes, various facts, videos, and stories were shared with our students to highlight and celebrate Black athletes, musicians, activists, and young leaders throughout history. As we celebrate and recognize the Black communities throughout our past, present and future, we continue to educate ourselves on what positive change looks like.