Black History Manitoba celebrates 40 years

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 05/02/2021 (853 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Black History Manitoba Celebration Committee has been active in Winnipeg for the past 40 years. During the month of February, which is Black History Month, it has scheduled a series of popular events.

This year’s Black History Manitoba organizing committee is powered by a small group of dedicated volunteers. The celebrations raise awareness of the contributions made by the Black community to all aspects of our province, including education, government, arts, sports, health and business.

The vibrant BHMCC has lots to celebrate this year.

It is celebrating not only its 40th anniversary but a new name and logo. The committee was formerly called Black History Month Winnipeg.

“In changing the name we recognize that we are not just important in February and that Black history needs to be recognized 365 days a year,” said Black History Manitoba chair Nadia Thompson.

BHMCC partnerships include community organizations such as the Afro-Caribbean Association of Manitoba, the African Communities of Manitoba, the Caribbean Council of Manitoba, the Congress of Black Women and the Jamaican Association of Manitoba.

“Remembering the past and shaping the future” is the theme of this year’s BHMCC celebrations.

The virtual opening event was the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. memorial church service on Jan. 31. Several other events (all virtual) are scheduled throughout February, including Mayor Bowman’s annual reception at city hall, Black History Canada virtual field trips to the Manitoba Museum, history lessons, a Black History Month youth debate and research challenge and a drive-through luncheon at Jamaican Association Hall.

For a full calendar of events, visit: www.bhmwinnipeg.com

“We continue to strive to be a hub for Winnipeg to have a portal of information and resources to connect our community. One of our mandates has always been to keep our young people connected, educated and involved,” Thompson said.

Derek Dabee is a member of the board of trustees of Seven Oaks School Division and a community correspondent for The Maples. You can contact him at ddabee@mymts.net