This year’s theme for Black History Month is “Black Excellence: A Legacy to Celebrate.”building the future
The African community is gearing up for a busy February.
The African Community of Timmins (ACIT) has many activities planned for Black History Month, with events celebrating different cultures and educating about issues facing Canada’s Black community. It is done.
This year’s theme is “Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate.” It’s a future to build on, and the Timmins community looks forward to sharing that legacy, said ACIT Chairman Everard Kasimangwana.
“For those who are unconcerned, all that matters is expressing our Africanness,” he said. “There are a lot of misconceptions about Africa and Africans, but we want to write our own stories by expressing our culture and traditions.”
Northern College plans to have educational speakers participate throughout this month, but dates are still being considered.
There will be a celebration at Northern College on Feb. 17 from 4 p.m., which will be an opportunity for the African community to dress up and share, Kasimangwana said.
“I intend to paint Timmins red with my flashy clothes and way of life,” Kasimangwana said.
Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite and everyone is welcome to attend.
“We want to showcase our culture, our clothes, our food, our entertainment,” he said. “This allows Timmins residents to see how rich our African culture is.”
With more newcomers moving to Timmins from Africa, Kasimangwana said the event is a chance to welcome people into the community.
“We want to create a community where everyone feels a sense of belonging,” Kasimangwana said.
Black History Month is celebrated each February to honor the contributions that Black Canadians have made and continue to make to culture, history, and community.
The celebration of Black History Month was first recognized in Canada in February 1996, after it was approved by the House of Commons in December 1995.
The community hopes people will learn more about Canada’s Black history and celebrate African culture with the community.
“Some people think of Africa as one country, but it’s not. It’s a big continent,” he said. “There are about 53 countries with diverse cultures and belief systems that we want to showcase.”
The city will hold a proclamation proclaiming Black History Month on Monday, February 5th at City Hall.