On November 18, 2021, the University of Lethbridge joined 40 universities from across Canada to endorse the Scarborough Charter — a commitment to eliminating anti-Black racism and advancing Black inclusion in Canadian higher education. In endorsing the charter, the U of L took a step forward in addressing social injustices of historically excluding marginalized voices and creating a safe space for all.
Creating a safe space consists of providing our students, staff and faculty the opportunity to celebrate and honour a key part of our history.
On February 1, 2022, the University of Lethbridge will begin celebrating Black History Month under the themes — Black Excellence and Black Flourishing — two key principles embedded in the Scarborough Charter. The month of February marks a historical moment of celebration for all Black people from Canadian, Caribbean and African Diaspora who have enriched our societies culturally, socially, politically and economically. By celebrating Black history, our university is creating another opportunity for brave conversations.
“By celebrating Black History Month, we live our commitment to recognize the contributions that have been made by our Black students, staff and faculty at the University of Lethbridge,” says Dr. Mike Mahon, president and vice-chancellor. “Thank you to everyone who has participated in putting this month’s events together.”
Executive Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Martha Mathurin-Moe, adds the month of February presents one opportunity to learn more about Black history and opens the door to further growth and understanding.
“Black History Month is more than the celebration of Black people one month out of the year. It is merely a starting point in recognizing the numerous contributions Black people continue to make to our communities, countries, and the world,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe. “For this Black History month, I encourage everyone, even after the month is over, to continue learning about the many scholars, innovators, cultural icons and activists who are pillars of Black Excellence and Flourishing in Canada and throughout the world. A great first step toward understanding the monumental positive impact of Black people on our society will be to join us online for the opening ceremony of Black History Month on February 1, 2022, at 10 a.m.”
For more information about Black History Month at the U of L, visit ulethbridge.ca/equity-diversity-inclusion/black-history.
Featured Events
Tuesday, February 1 (10 to 11 a.m.) — Opening Ceremony
• Dr. Sandra Dixon will share her story as a Black scholar who navigates an intersecting identity focusing on the importance of creating brave spaces for conversation.
Thursday, February 3 (11 a.m. to 12 p.m.) — Addressing anti-Black racism in the workplace - Fireside chat
• The Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) sits down with thought leaders to discuss what organizations can do continue the hard work of dismantling anti-Black racism and continue to build concrete ways to sustain these efforts.
Thursday, February 10 (2 to 3 p.m.) — ULSU Academic Panel: Understanding systemic racialization in post-secondary institutions
• Join Dr. Jerome Cranston and Professor Collins Ifeonu as they speak to continuous systemic racialization within post-secondary institutions in Canada.
Thursday, February 17 (11 a.m. to 12 p.m.) — History of race and racism in Canada
• In revisiting historic events that have influenced race relations, we will trace how these ideological constructions created the inequalities prevalent in our society today.