Black Herstory Month 2023

Today marks the start of Black Herstory Month. We invite you all to increase your awareness and understanding of Black herstory, how to be anti-racist and how anti-black racism deeply impacts your Black friends and peers. This month and every month, we urge you to call out instances of racism, injustice, and micro aggressive behaviours. Take a moment to consider how you can personally create change. Here are a few simple ways you can act:

Attend:

1. African Descent History in BC: Surrey Archives hosts guest speaker Yasin Kiraga Misago, president of the African Descent Society of BC for a virtual presentation exploring BC.’s early history of African descent. Cost: Free.
2. Black History Month: Innovation Summit: Highlighting the Black presence in innovation in BC and beyond. Cost: By donation.
3. Issamba Showcase – The Ultimate Journey Through the Depths of African Rooted-Rhythms: An unforgettable evening of African-rooted rhythm with artists from the Issamba African Art & Cultural Community Centre. Cost: $25.

Read:

1. To understand BC’s Black history, connect past and present in Canada –  Carolyn Ali
2. ‘Not Racist’ Is Not Enough: Putting In The Work To Be Anti-Racist – Eric Deggans, NPR
3. 8 everyday challenges black employees encounter at work – Randstad
4. Resources for Ending Anti-Black Racism – Canadian Women’s Foundation

Watch:

1. Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man – Emmanuel Acho
2. Two Canadas: My story of generosity and systemic racism – Honourable Ahmed Hussen, TEDx
3. Anti-Black Racism is Making Us Sick – Lydia-Joi Marshall, TEDx