Black History Month at Virtual Gurus — Black Excellence: A heritage to celebrate; a future to build

February is Black History Month. During this time, and all year long, Virtual Gurus is proud to support those who may traditionally have faced barriers to employment and amplify the diverse voices that reflect our communities.

This year’s theme, “Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build,” resonates deeply with our core values. It’s a time to honour the legacy of Black people in Canada and their communities and to look forward with optimism to a future rich in diversity.

Our journey at Virtual Gurus began with the vision of our founder, Bobbie Racette. As an Indigenous woman, Bobbie faced numerous challenges, but her resilience and determination led her to create a company where inclusivity isn’t just a policy; it’s our heartbeat. Her journey is a testament to the power of embracing diversity, an ethos we uphold daily.

“I’m really proud of the opportunities we’re providing for underrepresented folx, and the more of them I see succeed, the more I feel I have achieved.”

The essence of Black History Month is not just an annual observance; it’s an integral part of our Canadian tapestry and who we are. This year, as we mark the 10th year of the International Decade for People of African Descent, we recognize the unique experiences and contributions of Black Canadians. Their stories, struggles, and successes are not just chapters in history books but pivotal elements that continue to shape our communities.

At Virtual Gurus, diversity and inclusion are not mere buzzwords but practices woven into the fabric of our daily operations. We actively seek to create a workplace that reflects our diverse society. This includes educational programs for our team, supporting Black-owned businesses, and engaging in community initiatives that uplift marginalized voices. By doing so, we don’t just celebrate diversity; we live it.

This Black History Month, we encourage you to delve deeper into the stories of Black Canadians. Learn about their enduring impact, participate in community events, and engage in conversations that broaden your understanding. We invite you to join us in these endeavours, to listen, learn, and grow.

As we celebrate Black History Month, remember that our commitment to diversity and inclusion extends beyond just one month. It’s a continual journey of learning and understanding. At Virtual Gurus, we remain dedicated to building a future where everyone feels valued and included regardless of their background.

How to Get Involved

Share your Black History Month experiences with us, engage with our initiatives, and let’s work together towards a more inclusive future. Your story matters, and we’re here to listen.

• Visit the Government of Canada’s Black History Month page with resources and toolkits.
  Learn more about the International Decade for People of African Descent.
• Discover Black History Month Events in your community by visiting Eventbrite for listings.
• Visit your local library for events, education and activities; here’s what’s happening in Calgary.
  Thanks to TD Canada for sharing this list of Black History Month events nationwide, including the following events:

Community Events 

Calgary, Alberta

Ethnik Festivals Association: Ethnik Festival of Arts & Culture 2024
February 9-10, 2024

The Ethnik Festival of Arts and Culture is an annual Black History Month celebration in Calgary. This year, the event’s theme is “empowering women of all races towards nation and community building.” The two-day celebration will feature local and emerging artists, speakers, and food demonstrations. Learn more on the Ethnik Festivals website.

Regina, Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan African Canadian Heritage Museum: Black History Month Events
February 1-24, 2024

This Regina-based virtual museum and organization dedicated to education will host multiple events throughout February, including its yearly African Canadian/Black History Month launch event on February 1 and a wrap-up event on February 24. Learn more on the museum’s website.

Ottawa, Ontario

Discovery through the Arts: Celebrations & Revelations 2024
February 8, 2024

In association with Joy Bullen, Culturpreneur, the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 kicks off Black History Month with musicians Rashaan Rori Allwood (pianist and instrumentalist) and Kathryn Patricia Cobbler (loop pedal violist) and soprano Nadine Anyan. Together, they’ll reflect the Caribbean and African diaspora experience through music set against images and film from Canada and the Caribbean. Learn more about these concerts on the Joy Bullen website.

Toronto, Ontario

Harbourfront Centre: Kuumba
February 1-29, 2024

Kuumba is the Harbourfront Centre’s annual Black History Month festival. This year’s programming is centered around the idea of raising your voice and joyful expression. During the month-long event, Kuumba will feature iconic Black artists such as Angie Thomas, Anne-Marie Woods, Dwayne Morgan, Jully Black in a curated program of visual art, music, dance, film screenings, and workshops. Learn more on the Harbourfront website.

Toronto Black Film Festival 2023
February 14-19, 2024

The 12th annual Toronto Black Film Festival runs from February 14-19 and will showcase work at multiple Toronto venues by African, Caribbean, African American and Black Canadian filmmakers. Since 2015, the festival has honoured an important figure in African diaspora film. This year’s honouree is actress Pam Grier. Learn more on the Toronto Black Film Festival website.

Montreal, Quebec
Fondu au Noir / Fade to Black
February 7-11, 2024

The 13th annual Fondu au Noir/Fade to Black Festival runs from February 7-11 with both in-person and virtual programming that includes concerts, film screenings, panel discussions, visual arts workshops and virtual reality programs for participants of all ages. Learn more on the festival website.

Quebec City, Quebec

Forum Jeunesse Afro-Québécois
February 8, 2024

This annual event hosted by the Forum Jeunesse Afro-Québécois (FJAQ) spotlights emerging artists and acts as an opportunity to introduce these artists to the larger Quebec community. This year’s theme is “common struggle.” Learn more on the FJAQ website.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 — Celebrations and Revelations 2024: Unyielding Roots
February 2, 2024

In association with Joy Bullen, Culturpreneur, the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 kicks off Black History Month with musicians Rashaan Rori Allwood (pianist and instrumentalist) and Kathryn Patricia Cobbler (loop pedal violist) and soprano Nadine Anyan. Together, they’ll reflect the Caribbean and African diaspora experience through music set against images and film from Canada and the Caribbean. Learn more about the concert on the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 website.