Thousands of students from seventeen school districts joined a province-wide Black Excellence Day event that was planned and hosted by the District, with sponsorship from the Ninandotoo Society – the founder of the day.
For those joining online, the event – emceed by actor and singer Sam Darkoh – was broadcast with a live audience at Byrne Creek Community School.
Student voices were at the centre of the celebration for children and youth from Grades 5 to 12. This year’s speakers included students from the Black Excellence clubs at Burnaby Central and Cariboo Hill Secondary schools. The fourth annual event included performers and presenters who are accomplished in their fields, such as: professional violinist and performing artist Lord Nation, track and field icon and writer Valerie Jerome, and BC Provincial Court Judge David St. Pierre.
Black Excellence Day is an opportunity to stand in solidarity with Black Canadians and honour the rich history, contributions, achievements, resilience and joy of Black people.
Read about more opportunities in Burnaby Schools to celebrate culture, strengthen and support diversity:
Learning Through Indigenous Teachings and Honouring Culture – Multiple Stories
Illuminating Connection Through Culture and Community – November 2024
Deaf Awareness Flags Flown for First Time at Schools – October 2024
Unique Experiences Support Students Who are New to Canada – June 2024
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Showcase Draws Record Numbers – May 2024
Learning About Cultures and the Strength in Our Differences – April 2024
Student Voice Elevated at District-led Black Excellence Day Event – January 2024
Celebrating the Strengths in our Differences and Working to Dismantle Racism – December 2023
Students’ Post-Secondary Horizons Ignited in Black Futures Program – May 2023
Cultural Traditions and Practices Honoured – May 2023
Sharing Culture and Celebrating Expressions of Who We Are – March 2023
Celebrating and Reflecting During Black History Month – February 2023
Students Presenting at Black Excellence Day Event for Thousands – January 2023
Celebrating Black Excellence Beyond Black History Month – October 2022
Next Steps Coming: Action on Racism – September 2022
Anti-Racism Lead Nominated for Premier’s Award for Work in District – September 2022
Raising Diverse Student Voices and Opportunities – May 2022
Honouring Community Traditions and Practices – May 2022
Honouring and Learning About Black History – February 2022
District Hosting Black Excellence Day for Thousands – January 2022
Dismantling Racism: Invitation to Engagement Process – May 2021
Asian Heritage Month: Honouring, Celebrating and Taking Action – May 2021
Black History Month: Celebrating & Learning – February 2021
Supporting Black Shirt Day – January 2021
Continuing Our Journey: Supporting Anti-Racism – October 2020
Action on Racism: Burnaby Board of Education – June 2020
Celebrating Black History Month in Burnaby Schools – February 2019
Posted January 2025