Black History Month is a time to engage, learn, and celebrate Black history in Innisfil and across Canada! We’re grateful to our community partners for their leadership and for sharing their experience and knowledge.
Black History Month Proclamation
Mayor Dollin and Council have proclaimed February 2024 as Black History Month in Innisfil.
The Vibrant History of Simcoe County: A Local Black History
Parents Against Racism Simcoe County are hosting "The Vibrant History of Simcoe County: A Local Black History" at the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library's Lakeshore Branch on February 17, from 1-2:30 p.m. In this meaningful opportunity, community members are invited to learn about the roots of Simcoe County’s Black history and get a new appreciation and understanding of how it has impacted us today.
There is also an opportunity to participate in an optional interactive activity (cell phone required). This event is intended for ages 12+ and free to attend! Registration required.
Genealogy for Black and African-American Ancestors
Conducting genealogical research on Black and African-American ancestors has historically been challenging as a consequence of institutional racism and how it has limited the availability of accurate records. Despite improvements in more recent history, the inadequacy of earlier record-keeping continues to be an issue.
As a result, the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library has created a starter guide to provide resources that may assist beginners and experienced researchers alike to find their Black and African-American ancestors in Ontario, Canada, and the United States.
Resources
Celebrate and learn during Black History Month with local and relevant resources.
| Innisfil ideaLAB & Library Book Lists and Films |
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Celebrate and learn this Black History Month with staff-curated book lists from the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library:
If you're looking for film, view the curated collection available with your Library card through Kanopy. |
| Black History in Canada - The Canadian Encyclopedia |
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The Canadian Encyclopedia's Black History in Canada presents a timeline of Black history in Canada from 1608 to present. |
| Revival: The Oro African Church |
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Presented by the Township of Oro-Medonte, the Revival - The Oro African Church documentary reveals the preservation project of the Oro African Methodist Episcopal Church. Follow the journey through the eyes of a descendant. |
| Diverse Voices Unite - A Virtual Event to Honour and Celebrate Black History Month in Simcoe County |
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In this pre-recorded video, prominent guest speakers outline personal experiences and knowledge of Canadian Black history amidst various artistic performances of celebration. Local dignitaries and social justice committee students share conversations about what Black History Month means to them. Community partners share their good works and visions toward equity. |
| Stories of Colour |
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Stories of Colour features children’s books written by authors of colour, or whose central character is a person of colour. It's important for children to not only see themselves being represented in the stories, but also by the individuals telling the stories. |
Community organizations
Get to know the organizations that are supporting racial equity and offering resources for our community.
