Children and youth across the District are recognizing Black History Month this February. There are a variety of activities to learn about the proud heritage of the Black community, their joy, struggles, contributions, and achievements. Students have been exploring the significant contributions in literature, science, math, civil rights, sports and entertainment, with many creating displays to share learnings.
All grade levels at Twelfth Avenue Elementary participated in the creation of a mural of Viola Desmond, a Black Canadian civil rights activist. In 1946, she challenged racial segregation at a theatre in Nova Scotia by refusing to leave a whites-only area. Her court case was an inspiration for the pursuit of racial equality, and her contributions are now commemorated on the Canadian $10 bill.
Also at Twelfth Avenue, students built LEGO sculptures inspired by the work of a Ghanaian Canadian artist. Ekow Nimako is renowned for his extraordinary art made entirely with black blocks. He uses his pieces to celebrate the richness of Black culture while exploring themes of identity, history, and the future.
Both Confederation Park Elementary and Alpha Secondary put together displays of a periodic table representing Black Canadian writers, artists, entrepreneurs, leaders, athletes and more. Their stories and accomplishments can be explored by scanning the related code.
Later in the month, students at Burnaby Central Secondary are participating in a Lift Every Voice event with Marcus Mosely, who is a renowned gospel singer, speaker, and member of the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame. Youth will learn how music has inspired and assisted in the struggle for freedom and acceptance, how it unifies and connects people and serves as a powerful platform to let one’s voice be heard.
The students at Burnaby Central will explore the history of the civil rights movement and the fight for social justice. Mosely will be working with youth in the school’s Black Excellence Club and Concert Choir, culminating in a special evening performance together. Mosely is contributing the entry donations for the concert to Burnaby Central’s Black Excellence Club for their use at school.
This month, 20 Black youth from six high schools across the District will be attending their first session of the University of British Columbia’s Black Futures program. Over the coming months the students will participate in information sessions, activities and learn from speakers – all with a view to opening up post-secondary horizons.
In the lead up to Black History Month, thousands of students from 17 school districts joined the fourth annual Black Excellence Day Event. It was planned and hosted by the District with sponsorship from the Ninandotoo Society – the founder of the day.
Scroll down to see images and examples from several schools.
Read about more opportunities in Burnaby Schools to celebrate culture, strengthen and support diversity:
Learning About Culture and Celebrating Lunar New Year – February 2025
Thousands Across BC Join District-Hosted Black Excellence Day Event – January 2025
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
Celebrating Black History Month and Beyond – February 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 February 2025