NEWS RELEASE
HALTON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
*************************
In recognition of Black History Month in February, schools in the Halton District School Board have planned initiatives to celebrate and honour the lives and contributions of Black Canadians, past and present.
This year’s theme, Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations, commemorates the extensive role Black Canadians have played and continue to play in shaping this country. This theme calls attention to the impact Black communities have on the cultural, social, political and economic landscape of Canada, and the importance of recognizing these contributions as a way to inspire future generations.
Throughout the month of February, students across the HDSB will explore and celebrate Black Excellence through a variety of engaging activities, including:
-
A drumming performance by Babarinde Williams.
-
A visit to the Art Gallery of Ontario to experience The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century exhibition, celebrating Black creativity and the impact of hip-hop on art, fashion and global culture.
-
A Black Excellence Assembly, where students will present poetry, drama pieces and dance performances, and staff and families will share personal reflections on what Black Excellence means to them.
-
A culinary arts workshop on foods across the Black diaspora led by a skilled Black culinary arts teacher.
-
The Exploring Us Conference: The Science of Us, hosted by the HDSB Graduation Coaches for Black Students program, will provide students with an opportunity to explore their identity through science, innovation and cultural heritage. Through experiential workshops, students will connect Blackness to the scientific world, celebrate Black contributions to global knowledge and engage in hands-on activities that inspire curiosity and empowerment.
Quotes
“Black History Month offers a meaningful opportunity for all HDSB students, staff and families to learn about and celebrate the many achievements and brilliance of Black Canadians throughout history and today,” said Curtis Ennis, director of Education for the Halton District School Board.
“In every school within the HDSB, we are committed to ensuring that Black history, challenges and achievements are reflected in our students’ learning experiences year-round. This month, we place special emphasis on centring Black voices and experiences as an important step in fulfilling our commitment, as outlined in the HDSB's 2024-2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan, to provide an inclusive, respectful, accessible and equitable environment where human rights are upheld and systemic barriers are addressed.”
HDSB 2024-2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan
The 2024-2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan sets direction and prioritizes the collective actions of all students, staff, families and community members. This plan ensures our efforts as an organization are aligned and coordinated to support more than 67,000 students, 11,000 staff and the broader HDSB community. The six commitments identified in this four-year plan intersect and overlap to ensure that we take a cohesive approach to fulfilling its objectives.
Background resources
HDSB 2024-2028 Multi-Year Plan
Highlights from the 2024 Exploring Us Conference
*************************