February has arrived and there are so many ways to participate in and celebrate Black History Month around Toronto, from paint lessons to fascinating lectures to art showcases to film screenings and more. Learn about the achievements of influential Black Canadians past and present, and check out the work of talented Black creators in your own neighbourhood.
Here are some of the best things to do to celebrate Black History Month in Toronto.
Scarborough Heroes: A History in Colour
Toronto artist Joseph Osei Bonsu is showcasing a series of illustrations at a new exhibit at Scarborough Town Centre starting on February 4th. “From Kardinal Offishall to Robert Brown, each of the 13 framed illustrations tells the story of how each hero is connected to and represents the best of Scarborough,” the description says. The showcase will be on display at STC’s Shoppers Court through the summer.
Where: Scarborough Town Centre, Shoppers Court
When: Starting Friday, February 4th
“Did you know?” poster series
A series of posters featuring educational artwork is going up at outdoor and recreational spaces all around the city. Painted by local youth artists, the posters “feature captivating illustrations of notable Black figures and their contributions.”
You’ll be able to find the posters at all outdoor ice rinks in the city, Centennial Park Ski and Snowboard Centre, Earl Bales Park Ski and Snowboard Centre, and the four open golf courses. Plus, community centres will be screening presentations about some of history’s most influential Black Canadians.
Where: Various locations
When: February 2022
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Black History Month Paint Night
Not only can you see artwork this Black History Month, but you can create it too. The Sheridan Student Union is hosting a free virtual paint night that combines a painting lesson with meaningful conversation.
Join the SSU for an evening of “painting, reflecting, and valuable conversations with our host, Micah Nelson as we reflect on Black History Month,” the description says. The event is BYO canvas and brushes, but the first 25 students to sign up will get their paints for free.
Where: Link provided upon registration
When: February 24th, 2022
Toronto Public Library event series
TPL is running an online event series throughout the month centered around Black culture and heritage. Some of the speakers this Black History Month include prominent marine biologist Daniel Pauly, Toronto producer, and artist Rich Kidd, Nigerian-Canadian author and speaker Chidiogo Akunyili-Parr, and more.
In addition to the events, TPL also provides many other free resources like the Black Voices interview series, several podcasts, a Black History 2022 reading list, and more.
Where: Virtual
When: February 2022
MALCOLM X 30th Anniversary Screening
Head over to The Revue Cinema for a special 30th-anniversary screening of MALCOLM X in tribute to the life and legacy of the late human rights leader. With theatres are open at half-capacity, now’s your chance to see this iconic 1992 film return to the big screen.
Where: 400 Roncesvalles Ave
When: February 21st, 2022
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Via Kanana
As part of Habourfront Centre’s Kuumba, Toronto’s largest Black Futures Month celebration, you can buy tickets to a unique presentation of South African dance called Via Kanana.
“Pulsing with rhythmic energy, eight performers of Via Katlehong Dance have teamed up with contemporary choreographer Gregory Maqoma for Via Kanana, examining corruption in South Africa and those in power who make unfulfilled promises in the transition to democracy since the end of Apartheid,” the description says.
The show will be accompanied by a documentary, all of which will be available for online viewing starting on February 16th. The tickets are PWYC between $15 and $45.
Where: Online
When: February 16th — March 6th, 2022
