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February is Black History Month
The City of Orillia is proud to join the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada in proclaiming February as Black History Month. This month serves as a poignant reminder of the profound contributions of Black individuals in shaping our community and the broader Canadian identity. It is a time to honour the past, celebrate the present and inspire a future where everyone’s contributions are recognized and valued.
The City of Orillia recognizes the importance of culture and diversity to the quality of life of our community. As we embrace the spirit of inclusivity, diversity, and equality, it is important that we acknowledge, and learn from the remarkable stories that have paved the way for a more culturally enriched City. We invite you to join the conversation and take part in the many programs and activities that are being offered throughout the community. Together, through your participation and engagement, we will build a stronger, more equitable and welcoming Orillia.
About Black History Month
Every February, people across the country participate in Black History Month events and festivities that honour the legacy of Black people in Canada. During Black History Month, people in Canada celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians and their communities who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada a culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous country.Black History Month is an opportunity for the City of Orillia to recognize the past, present and current contributions that Black Canadians make to the life of Orillia and the country.
Black history in Canada
Black Canadians and their communities have been a part of shaping Canada’s heritage and identity since the arrival of Mathieu Da Costa, a navigator, and interpreter, whose presence in Canada dates back to the early 1600s.The role of Black people and their communities in Canada has largely been ignored as a key part of Canada’s history. There is little mention that some of the Loyalists who came here after the American Revolution and settled in the Maritimes were people of African descent, nor the fact that many soldiers of African descent made many sacrifices in wartime as far back as the War of 1812.Few people in Canada are aware of the fact that African people were once enslaved in the territory that is now known as Canada, or of how those who fought enslavement helped to lay the foundation of Canada’s diverse and inclusive society.
Black History Month is a time to learn more about these Canadian stories and the many other important contributions that Black Canadians and their communities have made to the history and continued growth of this country.
Activities
The City of Orillia is proud to support local events and exhibits during Black History Month, inviting the public to explore the heritage, traditions, and culture of Black Canadians. We invite you to learn more about these communities, the contributions they’ve made, and how they continue to help shape our history. To assist residents in accessing resources and experiences, the City has assembled this listing with various events and information on Black history within the region and country. Much of the information is from external sources and partner organizations. Updates will be made on an on-going basis as new information becomes available. For the most current and accurate information, please refer to the host organization’s website prior to attending an event.
Individuals and organizations offering experiential activities to the public, such as workshops, classes, festivals and other large or small scale events, are invited to send us details to promote on this webpage. You are also welcome to add your event to the City’s events calendar at https://calendar.orillia.ca/.
Listings should include the following:
- Name of Activity
- Short description
- Date(s)
- Time(s)
- Contact or registration details
- Webpage
| Flag Raising (Monday, February 3, 2025) - Orillia & Area Black Community Association |
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Join us on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. for a meaningful and symbolic Flag Raising Ceremony hosted by the Orillia & Area Black Community Association. This important event will take place at the Orillia Opera House and will honour the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the Black community in Orillia and beyond. We invite the community to gather together in solidarity and celebration, as we raise the flag in recognition of Black History Month and the ongoing pursuit of equality, diversity, and inclusion. Everyone is welcome to attend and show their support.
Location: Orillia Opera House (20 Mississaga St. W., Orillia, ON. L3V 3A6) Time: 11:00 a.m.
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| Tshweu Moleme: Black Tradition(s) and the Days Ahead (Wednesday, February 19, 2025) - Orillia Museum of Art and History OMAH |
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Longtime Orillian, Tshweu Moleme, is an educator at Lakehead University, Faculty of Education. Moleme brings extensive background in leadership and advocacy, in both the private and public sectors. His work has been recognized. In 2020, he received the prestigious community development award from the University of Toronto. The award was for “exceptional role models” with “contributions to the university and society.” Moleme remains active as an academic and activist, with passionate contributions in the promotion of Black history and cultural understanding, which have also made him a prominent voice in Canadian social discourse. February is Black History Month, Moleme will be speaking on lessons from the past/traditions, and navigation in the present, with the future in mind. He will reflect on the importance of history and the power of wisdom, as a guide. Location: ZOOM Time: 7:30 PM |
| Black in Canada (Tuesday, February 28, 2025) - Arts Orillia & Orillia and Area Black Community Association |
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Arts Orillia and the Orillia and Area Black Community Association present Black in Canada and Ty the Poetess during Black History Month. Back by popular demand, this riveting performance with dance, song and spoken word celebrates Black communities and the impact of Black leaders who shape Canadian culture and history. Don't miss Shameka Blake's critically acclaimed show by the spectacular Artists in Motion! The evening opens with a heartfelt poetic performance from Barrie's "People Poet" and local Simcoe County special guests. Prepare to experience the power of words and authenticity through an intimate use of the Literary Arts that demonstrates the connection between vulnerability and strength. Location: Orillia Opera House (20 Mississaga St W, Orillia, ON L3V 3A6) Time: 7:00 p.m. Cost: $35 (or $8 for students) |
| Virtual Lecture Series: The Lost Heroes of Oro by Alinka Angelova (January 31, 2025) - Simcoe County Museum |
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The Lost Heroes of Oro” is an immersive narrative that transports you through the historical events of the 1700s-1800s, shedding light on a significant chapter of Canada’s past: slavery. At its heart, the story revolves around one of Canada’s Black heroes, Richard Pierpoint, and the profound connection between his journey and the African Methodist Episcopal Church nestled in Oro-Medonte. Through song, drama, and dance, this captivating tale reaches back to the African continent, offering a glimpse into the remarkable life of Richard Pierpoint, a Black former slave. Driven by unwavering ambition, relentless determination, and an unshakable passion, Pierpoint embarked on a courageous journey that ultimately led him to the shores of Canada. His mission is to fulfill a destiny forged by his enduring spirit and resilience.
Location: Virtual
Time: 12pm - 1pm
Cost: FREE
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| Virtual Lecture Series: Through my eyes - Change & Challenge Bring Biracial in Simcoe County by Laura LaChapelle (February 6, 2025) - Simcoe County Museum |
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This presentation explores the personal journey of Laura, who grew up mixed-race in Simcoe County. It offers a candid reflection on the shifting dynamics of racism over the past four decades. Through her lens of lived experience and impactful non-profit work, Laura sheds light on the path toward fostering greater understanding, inclusion, and belonging. When it comes to diversity, what does the future hold for Simcoe County? Location: Virtual Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Cost: FREE |
| Virtual Lecture Series: Richard Pierpoint; Freedom Fighter by Peter Meyler (February 20, 2025) - Simcoe County Museum |
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Richard Pierpoint was African and one of Upper Canada’s earliest settlers. He survived the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, the French and Indian War, the American Revolution, the War of 1812 and twenty years of enslavement. The story of his life and times answers questions and challenges assumptions about Ontario’s history. Location: Virtual Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Cost: FREE |
Resources
The City is curating a list of resources to make it easy for residents to explore the rich history and stories of Black Canadians, both past and present. Links external to the City of Orillia have been sourced specifically for their relevancy and may contain mature subject matter. Should you have suggestions for content, please forward them to the Culture Coordinator.
| From Orillia Matters: Orillia man strives to be a 'good Black role model' | ||||||
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Noah Erskine reflects on his time in Orillia as he looks to relocate to Brisbane for his PhD. |
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| From Orillia Today: Orillia Celebrates Black History Month | ||||||
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Tshweu Moleme looks at 2022 events and activities. |
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| From the Barrie Today: Racism in Canada: Orillia Native Dexter Bullen's Story | ||||||
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Bullen describes his experiences with racism in a predominantly white community. |
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| From Our Digital World: Ontario Black History | ||||||
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OurDigitalWorld's exhibits are made up of materials brought online by a number of community organizations around the province, including libraries, archives, historical societies, museums, galleries, clubs and associations, and other interest groups. |
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| From the Canadian Encyclopedia: Black History in Canada | ||||||
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Quizzes, photo and videos galleries, timelines and more can be found in this collection on Black history. |
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| From the Archives of Simcoe County: The Black Settlement in Oro Township | ||||||
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This online exhibit provides some background on land grants in Simcoe County and discusses the extent and nature of the settlement along Wilberforce Street. |
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| From Canada's Historic Places: the Oro African Methodist Episcopal Church | ||||||
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This National Historic Site is located on Line 3 N. of Oro-Medonte and was built in 1840s by the area's Black community. This important landmark was lovingly restored with support from across Canada and the US, and reopened its doors on Aug 19, 2016. Click here to visit Canada's Historic Places web site. The photos below were provided by the Municipality of Oro-Medonte. More on the history of the Church can be found on their website.
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| From Orillia Matters - The Lost Heroes of Oro | ||||||
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Richard Varty interviews local artist and creator of The Lost Heroes of Oro, Alinka Angelova-May. |
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| Noteworthy historical figures | ||||||
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The Government of Canada's Department of Canadian Heritage has compiled biographies of some notable Black Canadians who have helped shape Canadian heritage and identity, and who have made and continue to make enormous contributions to the well being, and prosperity of our country. Click here to visit their web page. Who are our local heroes? Send us yours to the Manager of Culture. |
Other Resources
Being Black in Canada - A CBC project sharing the experiences of Black Canadians — from anti-Black racism to success stories within the Black community.
Making Change - Making Change’s GOAL is to spark broad community interest and foster conversations around inclusion and diversity. They have a specific focus on raising awareness and educating and exposing people to Black communities, Black cultures, and issues around anti-Black racism. They are building community inclusion and togetherness through activities, allyship, participation and discussion.
UPLift Black - UPlift Black is a social impact agency working to UPlift the Black community who live in Simcoe County. Our work is culturally based and anchored in 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusivity striving to achieve the ultimate goal of racial equity through a conscious and UPlifted community
Lakehead University (LU) has the Office of Human Rights and Equity and LU International that offers activities and resources supporting, growing and celebrating its diversity student population.
Ontario Black History Society - The Ontario Black History Society (OBHS) is a registered Canadian charity, dedicated to the study, preservation and promotion of Black History and heritage.
Welcome Home Program - The City of Orillia has compiled information and resources to help welcome newcomers to the area.
