This February, our campus community will observe a new flag outside UMSU University Centre. The tri-coloured Pan-African flag in red, black and green is flying in honour of Black History Month and is a powerful symbol of Black liberation and pride.
UM is the first Western Canadian university to raise the flag, an idea put into action by the Black Student Community group who requested the flag-raising ceremony that was held on February 2, 2026.
The group's president, Temiloluwa Oyewole, says: "It was important to make this happen because representation matters. A flag raising serves as an institutional acknowledgment of Black students and their contributions, and it creates space for reflection, pride, and community. It is a visible reminder that Black history and experiences are valued within the university community."
For students, the flag represents recognition and inclusion. Seeing the flag raised affirms that Black students belong here and that their identities, histories, and contributions are seen and respected.
- Temiloluwa Oyewole
Created in 1920, the Pan-African flag unites all people of Black African ancestry, and carries important symbolism in its colours: the red represents the blood of enslaved people and those who fight for freedom; the black represents its people; and the green represents the natural beauty of Africa.
The Black Student Community group is organizing several other initiatives during Black History Month, including a rally and exhibition with slam poetry. Visit their Instagram page (external link) for further details.
