Black History Month 2021: The Future is Now
Every February OSSTF/FEESO members are invited to organize and participate in Black History Month events to celebrate the important contributions and legacy of Black Canadians. The 2021 theme for Black History Month is: “The Future is Now.”
Twenty-five years ago, the Honourable Jean Augustine, the first African-Canadian woman elected to Canada’s House of Commons, championed legislation to recognize February as Black History Month in Canada.
OSSTF/FEESO recognizes that Black History is a part of everyday life for individuals who identify as members of the Black diaspora who have contributed to our communities and country. Black History Month is an important entry point to start larger conversations relating to anti-Black racism, systemic racism, and oppression. “OSSTF/FEESO will collectively embrace opportunities to celebrate the contributions of Black individuals while examining, challenging, and deconstructing systemic racism within its structure,” states President Harvey Bischof. “We will move forward from spaces of conversation into reformative practice and action,” concluded Bischof.
Before we can free ourselves from racism, we must acknowledge and recognize its existence. We have an opportunity to learn about ourselves and each other and where we wish to stand personally and collectively on the journey of anti-racism. From recognition to action, the celebration of Black History Month is an important part of the grander work of anti-oppression.
OSSTF/FEESO has developed a design for use by members, Districts, and Bargaining Units. This design is for use on t-shirts, websites, social media, posters, newsletters, and other publications. The images, in various formats, are available for viewing and download at:
Black History Month Graphics 2021
Video:
Black History Month – A Message from Hon. Dr. Jean Augustine to OSSTF/FEESO members
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