Ubuntu Mobilizing Central Alberta is preparing to host Central Alberta’s first official Black History Month Celebration led by the people that represent in the community. According to Ubuntu Program Director, Dieulita Datus Black History Month was only officially recognized by the Alberta government in 2017 and larger events have not taken place in Central Alberta.

“For most of the events that I've attended for Black History Month, they have been in Edmonton or Calgary but the smaller towns may do individual things. There hasn't been really anything big where it will draw people into Central Alberta and that's what we wanted to change,” explained Datus.

Despite the challenges of COVID-19, Ubuntu will be very active online throughout February hosting Zoom presentations, discussions and much more on their Facebook page. Here is a full schedule of events:

 

Poster courtesy of Ubuntu Mobilizing Central Alberta.

“These are not just your pop-up talks that will happen where someone who is not from the community will cover some sort of basis or the history. That's where Ubuntu takes part in saying this work has to be led by the people, the communities that they represent, and centering their voices. That's what the difference is with this event to me,” added Sadia Khan Executive Director of Ubuntu Mobilizing Central Alberta. 

Another aspect of Ubuntu’s Black History Month celebrations will be discussing just what it means to be Black. Datus says an important aspect to understanding Black identity is looking past one broad culture but instead considering the 54 countries that make up Africa, the 30 different countries that form the Caribean, and other areas of the world with people of colour.

“Each of these places have their own culture, customs, and food. There's such an interesting conversation to have with our amazing community partners who are willing to learn, willing to listen, and have the great conversation with.  I'm just so immensely proud,” said Datus.

Ubuntu Program Director Dieulita Datus raises her fist during the anti-racism protest at Red Deer's City Hall Park, June 6, 2020. File photo. 

Ubuntu’s central theme for 2021 is “Remember, Educate, and celebrate the narrative; Past and Contemporary.” This Black History Month, Datus is asking people look past what they were taught in school about slavery.

“Our story did not begin with slavery. We are the descendants of African civilizations that were well-established before contact. We wanted to go back to that and reflect on those stories, as well as to pay some attention as to what colonialism has done to us because of enslavement. We want to celebrate who we are now. We want to celebrate the achievements that we've done,” she explained.

The event will also celebrate local Black creators involved with fashion, music, food, art, and other craft.  A Youth Art Contest is now open for applications until February 20th for a chance to win $500. The winning piece will be showcased at the Red Deer Museum and Art Gallery. For more information, you can click here.

Datus encourages the public to get out and support Black business, creators, writers, and artists this Black History Month and throughout the year.  She hopes to see conversations about systemic racism occur in the community not just during Black History Month or when a tragedy strikes but each and every day.