Black History Month at JAC
by Zoe Shaw
We asked Bill Mahon from Student Activities what we can expect at JAC this month.
What is Black History Month?
Black History Month is time set aside to focus on the achievements, struggles, and accomplishments of blacks and the black community.
Why Should John Abbott students be aware of it?
Because it is part of the history of Canada, US, and the whole world. It’s part of black history and white history, and it has not been focused on in history classes.
What kind of events will happen in the month of February?
John Abbott has three events scheduled.
On Thursday February 5th, John Abbott hosted a comedy show featuring two young black comedians as part of the Underground Railroad Comedy Tour targeting Quebec and Ontario schools and comedy clubs.
February 9th, Black Theatre Workshop presented the play, “The Power of Harriet T!”, based on the inspirational story of Harriet Tubman and her struggles against slavery. She fled slavery in Maryland in the 1850s and risked her life to help slaves find safe haven in Canada via the Underground Railroad.
Finally, there will be virtual classroom presentation sponsored by the NFB on Thursday, February 19th at 1:00 in L-222. The discussion will be on excelling in your dream career and igniting the next generation’s spark, featuring highly accomplished mentors from Canada’s Black community: Rosey Edeh, three-time Olympian and TV anchor; Dr. Catherine ChandlerCrichlow, Executive Director of the Centre of Excellence in Financial Services Education; Layth Gafoor, sports and entertainment lawyer.
Who can students contact if they have any more questions?
Student Activities, Brenda Rowe in the Academic Sector.