Humber's Black Student Support and Engagement team with the Office of EDIB are inviting the community to celebrate Black Heritage Month 2025. While the month of February is an important time to celebrate the richness of Black culture and identity, the work that BSSE does extends beyond the month and touches many facets of campus life.
This year's theme is Roots & Rhythms: Celebrating Black Culture, Creativity and Community. It honours the profound influence of Black culture, the limitless creativity of the Black community and the strength and unity found in shared experiences.
"Black Heritage Month is a time to honour the strength, brilliance and contributions of Black communities to our shared history and future," said Kimberly Daniels, manager, Student Inclusion & Belonging. "At Humber Polytechnic, we celebrate the power of diversity and inclusion by reflecting on the legacies that have shaped us and inspiring one another to continue the work of equity and justice. Together, we recognize the invaluable contributions of Black individuals to our shared history while empowering the next generation to lead with pride and purpose."
The kick-off to Black Heritage Month at Humber starts with an opening ceremony on February 4. It begins at noon at the Learning Resource Commons building at North Campus and will set the tone for a month with opportunities to connect, honour, and be inspired by the vibrancy of Black heritage.
Programming continues throughout the month with a diverse range of events, including cultural performances, panel discussions and more.
On February 5, there will be a community and basketball night at North Campus. The Humber Hawks will be debuting special Black Heritage Month jerseys that honour Black excellence and heritage.
The Melanin Market happens on February 13 at Lakeshore Campus and will feature handmade goods from Black-owned businesses along with authentic African and Caribbean cuisine plus other activities. It also happens on February 20 at North Campus.
On February 20, Humber's Peta-Gaye Nash, who belongs to the Black/African Employee Resource Group, will take part in the Community Conversations - The Art of Storytelling: A Path to Healing event. Nash is the author of the short story collection Told Ya! Stories as well as several other books. During the event, Nash will guide a discussion on how storytelling can be a powerful means of healing and connection.
On February 27, the Battle Jollof happens at North Campus. Jollof is a popular West African dish that symbolizes cultural identity, and the event celebrates Jollof's cultural significance and deliciousness.
For a full list of Black Heritage Month events at Humber, visit the Black Heritage Month 365 online calendar.
