Black History Month 2021
February is Black History Month. The annual event was started in 1926 by American historian Carter G. Woodson as a week-long celebration of African American history, culture and identities. Today, countries like the U.S, Canada, and the UK pay tribute to Black people as an part of the countries' fabric.
This year's celebration of Black History Month is significant in several ways: the regressive policies by former president Trump's administration reminded us of the urgent need to address anti-Black racism here in Canada. And since we're still under lockdown, this year's Black History Month events will primarily be of the virtual kind.
You may have heard Angline Tetteh-Wayoe's voice on CBC Radio's Here and Now, As It Happens, Q and other shows. Starting this month, you will also hear her on The Block, a new CBC Radio music show dedicated to playing music by Black artists. You can now tune in to The Block every weeknight on CBC Radio. In the meantime, here's Angeline talking to Metro Morning's Ismaila Alfa about the show and what she hopes it'll do for Black Canadians and music lovers across the country.
Branchez-vous à votre culture en vous abonnant aujourd'hui!
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This Black History Month, CBC is partnering with Obsidian Theatre to debut 21 Black Futures, an anthology of monodramas by 21 playwrights, 21 directors, 21 actors, depicting 21 visions of the future of Blackness. The series will debut exclusively on CBC Gem in three parts, starting on February 12. The project commissioned is commissioned from multigenerational Black playrights from across Canada including d’bi young anitafrika, Kimberley Rampersad, Leah-Simone Bowen and many others. Mark your calendars and, in the mean time, here's more about the 21 Black Futures:
When the pandemic began in earnest last March, FRIENDS began sharing recommendations of CanCon picks by Canadian artists as a way to keep us connected through our shared love of Canadian art and culture. We reached out to talented Canadian artists for their suggestions of books, films, music and shows to keep our spirits lifted and create a shared sense of community, even while we're apart. For Black History month, take a dive into The Friendly Brief archive and check out how some of Canada's top Black artists spent their downtime: