University of Lethbridge celebrates Black History Month 2025

The University of Lethbridge continues its journey and commitment to eliminating anti-Black racism and advancing Black inclusion in Canadian higher education. As part of this journey, for 2025 the theme for Black History Month is Reclaiming the Narrative: Celebrating Black History and Black Presence.

This year’s theme is so important as it speaks to elevating the full story of the experience of the Black communities not only in Canada, but also the history of the Black community here in Alberta. It reminds us that our humanity and our stories create an opportunity for celebration, connection and community that recognizes the cultural richness of our students and employees, which makes us stronger as an institution.

“Celebrating Black History Month is an opportunity for our community to come together in recognizing and honouring the unique stories and significant contributions made by our Black students, staff and faculty at the University of Lethbridge,” says Dr. Michelle Helstein, Provost and Vice-President (Academic).

“Black History Month is a constant reminder of the ongoing need to remain vigilant, ensuring that we are open to learning about the many stories, achievements and resilience of Black communities, and that we do not fall prey to the danger of single stories,” adds Martha Mathurin-Moe, Vice-Provost of Accessibility, Belonging and Community. “Stories bring us together and stories remind us of our own humanity.”

For 2025, as we continue to work together as a university campus for all, it is important that  we remain courageous and curious in learning about the many scholars, creatives, innovators, cultural icons and activists who are pillars of Black presence on our campuses, and in our communities, within Canada and around the world. Black History goes beyond the month of February, but this month let us take the time to remember that the Black community is part of our story.

Join us for the opening ceremony of Black History Month on February 4, 2025, at 11 a.m. online and in-person for Coffee with the Artist Erika DeFreitas at 3 p.m. in the Hess Gallery (W600).

For more information about upcoming events, visit the BHM webpage.


Contact:

Martha Mathurin-Moe | martha.mathurinmoe@uleth.ca