The Halton District School Board’s Virtual School Elementary - North (VEN) held a virtual Black History Month assembly last Friday (Feb. 26) with students and their families to help illustrate the importance of the month.
The assembly, which took a month of preparation, included incorporating videos from HDSB families to discuss their thoughts on the significance of Black History Month. The assembly included a land acknowledgement, O Canada and The Black National Anthem - Lift Every Voice and Sing.
Tanesha Forbes-Bunsie, teacher and assembly co-organizer, explains that VEN students and community members were asked “What does Black History Month mean to you?” Students, parents/guardians and extended family submitted their response through video and voice recordings.
“The theme for the assembly was 'Resistance, Resilience, and Excellence' and we celebrated Black people who demonstrated these qualities”, says Forbes-Bunsie. “Classes were asked to submit contributions, which took the form of pictures, art and writing. These, along with cultural music and songs, were used to convey the overall story and accentuated the atmosphere. We were inspired by the participation of members from our school community. Their level of engagement helped to elevate the entire assembly and made for a successful culmination to our inaugural Black History Month celebration.”
During the 22-minute virtual assembly, students learned about Black people who became pioneers in securing equal rights in society.
“When I think of Black history, I think of the strong men and women who fought for our freedom, so that I can live my life based on my own choices,” says Grade 9 student Mikhai.
“Black History Month is a time when we remember the world changers from the past, current world changers and hope for future world changers,” the Hamilton family stated in the video. “It allows us to salute our many accomplishments. Let us continue celebrating Black history.”
Teacher Katrina Tedja Fleming, who helped organize the assembly, hopes students learn that they play a critical role in ensuring a future where everyone has equal rights.
“Hearing a delicate but important message of equality being conveyed by peers, we hope, will motivate students to educate themselves and take further action.”
