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.
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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.
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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.
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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!