February marks Black History Month, a chance to learn about the rich cultural past of Black people in BC and Canada. This year’s theme in Canada is Black Legacy and Leadership, celebrating Black leaders, pioneers, and innovators. 

Multiple events throughout Victoria are scheduled for this month to learn and engage, hosted by the BC Black History Awareness Society, Royal BC Museum, and UVic. Learn about Black culture in BC and beyond, with opportunities to try different cuisines, see an African-inspired fashion show, and hear beautiful music. 

BC Black History and Heritage Day | Feb. 8 | 1-4pm

Celebrate Black History Month at RBCM—meet direct descendants of local Black pioneers and history makers, and check out the photo gallery and artifacts on display. [Free]

Black History Month Fashion Show | Feb. 8 | 5-7pm

African prints and styles by local designers will be on display at this RBCM fashion show, set to Black History radio capsules created by UVic’s School of Languages. [Free]

Preserving and Co-creating Black History in BC | Feb. 10 | 3:30pm

See Silvia Mangue, president of the BC Black History Awareness Society, for an engaging discussion on Canadian Black history in the Sequoia Building at Royal Roads. [Free]

DWTN Winter Lime | Feb. 17 | 10am-6pm

Warm up with some tasty Caribbean food and flavours, with this new cultural event happening at Ship Point. [Free]

Ross Bay Cemetery Tour | Feb. 23 | 2-3pm

Learn about some of the 50 Black pioneers who settled in Victoria in this guided historical tour. [$5]

Celebrate Music and Words | Feb. 24 | 7-9pm

Afro-Cuban saxophonist Noedy Hechavarria Duharte will perform his original music, often described as highly poetic and complex with strong harmonies. Hosted by the BC Black History Awareness Society at the Belfry Theatre. [Admission by donation]

Dub Performance as Decolonial Praxis | Feb. 25 | 5-6:30pm

See award-winning playwright, performer, director, and activist d’bi.young anitafrika as they speak about decolonial theatre performance. After the talk, join the book launch for their latest poetry collection: dubbin poetry: the collected poems of d’bi.young anitafrika. Happening at Phoenix Theatre at UVic. [Free]

African Eloquence Youth Celebration | Mar. 1 | 4-8:30pm

In its seventh year, this cultural pageant features traditional clothing, artwork, performances, and educational presentations. Youth of African heritage from Island middle and high schools will present information on various African countries, cultures, and issues, with a panel of judges selecting the top presentation. Happening at the David Lam Auditorium at UVic. [Free]

Additional events, open to Uvic students only, can be found here.