EMSB Black History Month Roundup 2025

 Aly Keita

On Tuesday, February 4   Gardenview Elementary School in St. Laurent  welcomed  Aly Keita.  He is a multi-talented dancer, acrobat , circus arts and musician, singer, drummer and  director/choreographer. On the side, he holds workshops to children and to adults. He performs    all over Quebec, Ontario and  overseas.

Students at Pierre de Coubertin take part in their activity.

Canadian and American Trailblazers

As part of our ongoing commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity within the school community, Leonardo Da Vinci Academy, Nesbitt Elementary, Pierre de Coubertin Elementary, Perspectives I & II High School, and L.I.N.K.S High School were part of an interesting  Black History Month workshop that  highlight edthe contributions of Canadian and American trailblazers. This workshop, titled "The Pillars of Change,” provided students with an engaging and educational experience. It  included an opportunity to explore the lives and achievements of influential Black figures through an interactive game inspired by The Word on the Street by Educational Insights. This activity was created and designed by Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator Vince Lacroce to enhance students’ understanding of historical and contemporary leaders who have shaped the course of history and continue to inspire change. Students had to complete various tasks and educational challenges throughout the school while learning about the stories, experiences, and accomplishments of both Canadian and American Black Heroes.  The goal of this program was to have students recognize the contributions of the Black community during the Civil Rights movement and in the realms of education, government, science, sports, and music.

Nesbitt, Leonardo Da Vinci Academy, and Pierre de Coubertin Elementary Cycle 1 classes  participated in an “I am a Change Maker!” Workshop. Students had an opportunity to look closely at the story of Ruby Bridges, the brave little girl who advanced the cause of civil rights in 1960 when she became the first African American student to desegregate an all-white elementary school in the southern USA. Our young students expressed how unfair segregation was and were so grateful to be in a school where diversity and inclusion are welcomed.

At Leonardo Da Vinci Academy,  Leonardo Da Vinci Daycare Educator Stellana Romeo and the LDVA Community Art Club created bulletin boards displaying people fighting for civil rights. The Pillars of Change Bulletin Boards will complement the ongoing Black History Month workshops developed by Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator Vince Lacroce.

On February 17, LINKS High School   welcomed students from Marymount Academy and Fatima Wilson for an interactive Steelpan workshop and presentation. Perspectives I and II High School   hosted the same inspiring event on February 21. This unique program   highlighted the history, culture, and artistry of the steelpan, a percussion instrument with roots in Trinidad and Tobago. Students had the opportunity to learn from seasoned presenters and gain hands-on experience with the steelpan, exploring its significance in Caribbean culture and its impact on global music. The initiative was spearheaded by Mr. Lacroce.

“This event was a wonderful opportunity for students to connect with the rich heritage of the African diaspora through music and storytelling,” said  Mr. Lacroce. “We are excited to foster cultural understanding and creativity through this immersive workshop.”

On February 25 and 26, Nesbitt hosted an Olympic-inspired carnival day, serving as the culmination of a month-long series of workshops and programs designed to honour and explore Black history and culture. Throughout February, Nesbitt’s dedicated staff led engaging workshops and educational programs highlighting the contributions and achievements of Black individuals in Canada and around the world. These initiatives aim to inspire students, foster inclusivity, and deepen understanding of the significance of Black history in shaping our society. The carnival day on February 25 featured a range of Olympic-themed activities that encouraged teamwork, perseverance, and community spirit. As the highlight of the two events, Nesbitt   welcomed a member of the Canadian Olympic team, Ana Laura Portuondo Isasi, a multi-time global medalist and 2024 Olympian in the sport of Judo, to address students, staff, and attendees on the importance of Black History Month. This inspiring speaker will share personal experiences, reflections, and the pivotal role of Black history in building a more inclusive future.

Poster Boards

Members of StarCan Cultural Association, Union United Church and Jamaica Association hosted a Black History Month  poster boards at two EMSB schools during two weeks in February. Organizers are now totalling the results of the quiz to see which school has most right answers .  A prize, such as a trophy, will be awarded to that school and they will be crowned BHM  winners. Schools included James Lyng High School and St. Monica Elementary.

Hip Hop Dancers

Dunrae Gardens Elementary School in TMR had to hip hop dancers , featuring the  winner of over 15 dance competitions Dizzy Lock (Dany) and a young hip hop dancer Destiny, who started out when she was 13 yearss young (she's now 20). They both are well known in the dance community and arts.

St.  Raphael Teams Up With LMAC AEVS

Cycle III students at St. Raphael School and staff organized a special activity for Black History Month.  Some students of Laurier Mac (AEVS) brought over synthetic hair strands  and taught the    St. Raphael kids how to do various braids.  There were five different mannequin heads with texturized hair , enabling all students to explore how to do braids for themselves. 

In addition, they also brought some curling and flat irons to show a variety of curls.

Students participate in the program.

Steelpan at Galileo

Students and staff at Galileo Adult Education Centre came together for a vibrant Black History Month celebration. The event featured an electrifying steelpan performance by Salahpan, filling the gym with the rhythms of the Caribbean. As the melodies resonated through the crowd, attendees also enjoyed a delicious Jamaican patties, a beloved staple of Caribbean cuisine. The event not only honored Black history but also provided students and staff with an experience that connected music, food, and culture. This celebration was both educational and entertaining, leaving everyone with a deeper appreciation of the culture being honored.

Students take part in the Fair.

East Hill Program

In honor of Black History Month, East Hill Elementary School in RDP planned many exciting and engaging activities during the month of February for our students to learn about both historical and current Black figures making a positive impact on our society. This year, the theme we adopted was "The influence of the Black community, from past to present." In keeping with this year’s theme,  students attended a Black History Month Fair which included the display of the students’ projects, a compilation of their work shown in a short video and a tasting section. It was definitely a wonderful and inspiring day for our students!

Vincent Massey Collegiate

In honor of Black History Month, Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator (PDCIA) Veronica D’Agata, invited Omari Newton from Overture with the Arts to Vincent Massey Collegiate for an in-person presentation of “Tracking Black Canada”, focused on the often-forgotten histories of early Black communities across our country. Through his trademark entertainment style, he highlights the contributions and achievements of these prominent residents in these communities. Staff and students found it to be very engaging and interesting as they learned more about our own Canadian Black history.  

Our Lady of Pompei Elementary School

For the students at Our Lady of Pompei Elementary, Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator (PDCIA) Veronica D’Agata organized an interactive performance from African artist, Luc Bambara. Students and staff had an opportunity to explore the culture from Burkina Faso through a fun and energetic presentation of traditional African drumming and dancing. Everyone was all smiles, full of joy and enthusiasm.

John Caboto Academy & Michelangelo International Elementary School

At both John Caboto Academy and Michelangelo International, Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator (PDCIA) Veronica D’Agata also organized an interactive performance from Afro-Urban dance artist Melo Omat. This performance was a fun and engaging way to explore the rich cultural heritage and vibrant dance styles of Africa. Through physical fitness and cultural appreciation, students left feeling energized, inspired, and connected to the music and rhythms of Afrobeat. Everyone had a wonderful time!

Dunrae Gardens Elementary School 

For Black History Month at Dunrae Gardens Elementary School, professional dancers Dizzy Lock and Destiny delivered an exhilarating performance and a mini workshop, showcasing a variety of dance styles. Dizzy explained that many dance styles have been created by the Black community, with numerous movements rooted in African cultures. The performance was a jaw-dropping experience, with Dizzy soaring across the gym as part of his dynamic routine, which featured locking, funk, and disco. Destiny, a hip-hop specialist, demonstrated a fusion of old-school and new-school styles. Dizzy, a winner of over 20 dance competitions, currently teaches at Studio Bizz and has performed at major venues, including the Jazz Festival, fashion and dance shows in Quebec and Ontario, and events in Colombia. Outside of dance, he works as a computer engineer. Destiny, whose father is a pioneer of hip-hop, effortlessly led the entire school, 340 students in learning common hip-hop steps. She has been featured on two Télé-Québec programs and has taught hip-hop in many French schools. PDCIA Puynung Choy commented, "The school's spirit was elevated to a whole new level during and after the dance presentations. The Black History Month assembly was clearly a fun, practical, cultural, and spirited experience—a school memory to savor."

Marymount Academy

In celebration of Black History Month, Marymount Academy International had the honor of hosting Mr. Simeon Pompey on Thursday, February 27th. Mr. Pompey is a dedicated history enthusiast, a teacher at Dawson College, a respected community activist in Montreal, a former MMA basketball coach, and current MMA Governing Board Community Representative. He delivered an engaging presentation to Secondary One and Secondary Two students about the history and impact of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade. Through his powerful storytelling and deep knowledge, students learned important facts they had never encountered before. They left the session not only enlightened but also inspired to advocate for justice and stand against all forms of discrimination. It was a truly meaningful experience!

 

Dalkeith

As part of Black history Month at Dalkeith Elementary School, Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator, Mary Poullas organized a special presentation with Jane Nyoike. Her interactive performance gave the students a taste of her Kenyan culture and traditions. Students and staff were dressed up with clothes from the Massai tribe. Jane brought with her genuine artifacts from Kenya that she shared with the students. 

Rosemount High School

Rosemount High School celebrated Black History Month with African singers, drummers and dancers, Luc Bambara and Adama Daou. This interactive performance gave the students a taste of the culture and traditions from Burkina Faso, West Africa. This was a memorable experience for all, and the students had wonderful time learning several traditional African dances.

Virtually

The Personal Development and Community Involvement Service hosted their 4th annual Virtual Story Time in Celebration of Black History Month. Coordinated with community partners Women on the Rise and WIN Intergenerational Network, this year’s book selection was The Year We Learned to Fly, by Jacqueline Woodson, read by special guest, Nadine Joy Collins.  The story time was attended by nearly 50 PreK-Grade 3 classes from 19 schools across the board!

Options High School

At the beginning of February, Options students and staff participated in a 24 hour row.  Students and staff were divided into teams of 8, split amongst 4 rowing machines. The initiative came to life through the efforts of Garth Service and Jason Gannon, both Project Development officers. 

“I wanted to create an event for Black History month to honour the unknown people whose lives were lost during the Trans-Atlantic slave trade," said Service. “There is no record of those we honoured and we hope that our efforts during these 24 hours serves to ensure they are never forgotten”. 

Service partnered with Gannon who has created a Character Development program through fitness at Options High School.  

“When Garth came to me with this idea, I knew exactly what to do," said Gannon. "We needed to create an unforgettable experience for these students in order for them to continue to tell the story. As a result, we got on the rowing machines in our gym and committed to never let them stop, not even for a second, for 24hrs. When things got tough, and they did, we leaned into the stories we learnt of the Trans-Atlantic crossings and were able to harness feelings of love and empathy for these people and in turn keep on rowing."

The row itself was tremendously successful. The students and staff rowed 997 km in 24 hours. This shared experience also created a bond between students and staff became. 

“There was a palpable change in the school environment” said James Bray, Head teacher at Options “Everywhere from the hallways to the classrooms students were more engaged and eager to learn more about Black History."