Black History Month (BHM) is an opportunity to honour, celebrate and learn about the many accomplishments, contributions and lived experiences of Black leaders and communities that help strengthen and shape the University of Alberta, the province of Alberta and Canada.
Throughout February, U of A faculty, staff and students are hosting Black History Month events that encourage us to listen, engage and learn about Black perspectives, knowledges, cultures and histories, creating new opportunities for learning as one part of removing barriers to success.
An online micro-course launched last year explores the accomplishments and histories of Black Canadians, providing a year-round learning opportunity. Black Canadians: History, Presence, and Anti-Racist Futures is open to everyone and was developed by Andy Knight, U of A political scientist, and Brandon Wint, a multidisciplinary artist. The course has already had a broad impact beyond the U of A, including with the City of Edmonton, which recommends that all its employees take the four-module course.
As part of the U of A’s commitment to the Scarborough Charter, we strive to support Black excellence across the university and understand that identifying and acting on opportunities to promote the thriving of Black students, faculty and staff must be led by Black voices and centred on Black experiences.
In addition to the Black Faculty Collective and several student groups and associations, Black scholars at the U of A have recently established the Black-led Research Network Initiative (BRNI) as a hub for their interdisciplinary research. This also includes programs such as the longstanding Experiential Learning in Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship (ELITE) Program for Black youth, which provides paid training and learning for high school and university students in STEM. Another important initiative is Black Youth for Social Innovation (BYSI), where undergraduate students in the College of Social Sciences and Humanities grow their skills and knowledge in paid, work-integrated learning experiences. These opportunities help prepare students to succeed in their careers.
The University of Alberta is committed to cultivating a culture where everyone feels valued, safe, supported and affirmed in our core strategies, including Shape: A Strategic Plan of Impact, Forward Together: The University of Alberta People Strategy and our recent evolution, Access, Community and Belonging (ACB). The shift to ACB was drawn from extensive consultations with over 1,000 community members during the development of Changing the Story: An Integrated Action Plan for Transforming our Vibrant and Interconnected University Community. I hope you can join in the launch celebrations on Feb. 12 at noon in SUB. Building on equity, diversity and inclusivity is an important step forward in deepening the U of A’s commitment to sustainable, authentic transformation and supporting a community where everyone can thrive.
I encourage you to learn more about Black individuals' histories and lived experiences by attending one of the many events being held this month or by reading the stories of Black individuals who have helped shape our university community.
Bill Flanagan
President and Vice-chancellor