DCDSB Celebrates Black History Month

Posted On Friday January 31, 2025

February is Black History Month! Throughout the year, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) engages in learning and understanding of the history and current realities of Black individuals, while also recognizing the achievements, resilience and excellence of Black communities.  

At DCDSB, we are committed to promoting an inclusive learning community where diversity is celebrated, and all voices are heard. During February, we will be hosting various events, celebrations, and discussions to educate and inspire our students, staff, and community members on Black history and excellence. 

Recognizing the importance of Black History Month, we are committed to supporting and celebrating Black excellence, and to having Black history recognized as Canadian history, through culturally responsive and relevant programs and initiatives that promote equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging. 

Black History Month in DCDSB Schools

Throughout DCDSB schools, students will be involved in numerous learning opportunities and events. Many schools have invited guest speakers, panelists, and artists including dancers and musicians to share their knowledge and culture with the DCDSB community.

At DCDSB schools, Black Student Unions and other equity student groups meet throughout the year to centre student voices, seek opportunities to celebrate their culture and heritage, and develop initiatives and programs for Black and other equity-deserving populations.

Coach/Advocates for Black Students (CABS) have established Black student groups in the DCDSB secondary schools they are affiliated with, who work together to highlight Black excellence and pathways opportunities all year long. CABS group activities for Black History Month include hosting cultural bake sales, organizing guest speakers and performances, and sharing information about notable Black Canadians through social media and school announcements. Throughout the year, CABS work to support the implementation of programs, services and other supports to meet the needs of systemically underserved Black students and their families, with a focus on student well-being and success.

DCDSB has focused on building capacity in educators to dismantle anti-Black racism and discrimination, and to support Black excellence. Educators have received professional development sessions and have access to resources and materials for use in the classroom. 

All DCDSB secondary schools offer the Grade 12 course: Deconstructing Anti-Black Racism (IDC4U). The course will run each school year if enough students at each secondary school opt to register for it. This university-level course is available to current Grade 10 and Grade 11 students when course selection opens in January/February. It is a counter-space of celebration that centres Black experience, and promotes unity, allyship, and participatory action, by allowing all students to learn about the theories, histories, and stories of Black resilience and advocacy. To learn more about this course, please speak with your secondary school guidance department.

Staff Learning

The DCDSB Black Heritage & Excellence Celebration Committee has planned Black History Month initiatives for Catholic Education Centre (CEC) and Operations Maintenance Administrative Centre (OMAC) staff. To kick off the month, staff have been invited to attend a liturgy led by Father Coleman Mruma which will be followed by a presentation in recognition of Black History Month. This presentation will feature Black Canadians who have contributed to Canadian development throughout history to present day. At the end of February, CEC and OMAC staff will participate in a Black History Month celebration and will include a guest speaker, music and food from local Black businesses. These initiatives will allow for DCDSB staff to reflect on shared values, deepen their understanding and celebrate the diversity that enriches our board.

Beyond Black History Month, staff participate in Human Rights and Equity training that cover a variety of topics, including navigating workplace discrimination, engaging in culturally responsive communication, and resolving Ontario Human Rights Code-based concerns. Staff also have access to resources, supports and materials related to this training.

Resources to support staff professional development and embedding the principles of equity into the classroom are available for all DCDSB staff on the intranet.

We encourage everyone to participate, learn, and engage in meaningful conversations during Black History Month and throughout the year. By working together, we can promote understanding, respect, and equality for all. 

DCDSB and Community Resources

Supports and resources to dismantle anti-Black racism and promote Black excellence at the Durham Catholic District School Board

Local Events

Resources for Further Learning