Join us online at the Library to celebrate Black History 365!
While February 2021 marks the 26th anniversary of Black History Month in Canada, we are committed to recognizing the importance of Black history 365 days of the year. Join us as we celebrate the legacy of Black Canadians who have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous nation it is today.
We are excited to present a full roster of fun and informative online events for all ages. We have loaded up with storytimes, movies, book chats, and opportunities to listen to Community Voices as we celebrate the diversity of Simcoe County. In partnership with UPLift Black, we are committed to sharing Black voices and experiences throughout the year under the banner Black History 365.
Black History 365 Reading Lists
Want to further your learning? Check out some great books and resources for Adults, Teens, and Kids. For more materials featuring diverse voices, cultures and experiences, explore our full list of Diversity Reads.
Black History 365 Programs
Here’s a hint of what’s on offer for February 2021. But be sure to check out all the Black History 365 events so you don’t miss a thing all year!
- February 1 – NFB in Focus: John Ware Reclaimed. Tune in for a special National Film Board selection.
- February 1 – Introduction to Black History 365: Dupe leads us through the background of Black History Month and reads the story of Harriet Tubman from “Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History.”
- February 1 – Researching Your African-Canadian Roots with Janie Cooper-Wilson: Local history buffs will want to mark this day on their calendars.
- February 3 – Reading Champion with Roxann Whittingham: Discover all the challenges that Nelson Mandela faced as Roxann reads us the story of his life.
- February 8 – NFB in Focus: Speak It! From the Heart of Black Nova Scotia. Tune in for a special National Film Board selection.
- February 8 – Storytime Special: Dupe reads Hair Love, where a little girl's daddy steps in to help her arrange her curly, coiling, wild hair into styles that allow her to be her natural, beautiful self. Also featured is the story of Rosa Parks from “Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History.”
- February 10 – Reading Champion with IBK. IBK reads Louise Loves Art. What will happen with Louisa’s art when her younger brother gets hold of her masterpiece?
- February 15 - Diverse Voices Unite: Honouring and Celebrating Black History Month. Tune into this special program as we listen to dignitaries, performing artists, students, community partners, and special guests talk about Canadian Black History.
- February 15 – NFB in Focus: Sisters in the Struggle. Tune in for a special National Film Board selection.
- February 15 – Storytime Special: Storytelling in Africa with Dupe as she sings and tells the story of Anasi the Spider. Also featured is the story of Oprah Winfrey from “Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History.”
- February 22 – NFB in Focus: Golden Gloves. Tune in for a special National Film Board selection.
- February 22 – Storytime Special: Dupe reads Nana Akua Goes to School.
- February 24 – Reading Champion with Kyleigh: Kyleigh reads I’m Going to Give You a Polar Bear Hug.
For more information on Black History Month, check out our webpage Black History 365.