Oakville has full roster of events to celebrate February’s Black History Month

The Town of Oakville has unveiled an extensive calendar of events to celebrate Black History Month in February.

Things will kick off Wednesday, Jan. 31, when Oakville Mayor Rob Burton will read a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month. The flag of the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton (CCAH) will be raised at 10:30 a.m. at Town Hall.

Black History Month flag raising will also take place at Halton Region Police Services headquarters on Thursday, Feb. 1, at 10 a.m.

The CCAH will launch its month-long celebration at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts on Feb. 1 at 6 p.m. The evening includes a keynote speech about Oakville’s Black history by Anthony Sherwood and performances by Juno award winner Jully Black, Whitney Houston tribute artist Geri Defoe and Arthouse Children’s Choir.

This year’s theme is “Celebrating Culture and History.” Tickets cost $10 and can be purchased by visiting the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts website.

Residents will be able to attend a gallery reception opening for the Black History Month art exhibits Explore the Essence of a People: Celebrating Black History Month through Art at Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre on Sunday, Feb. 4, from 2 to 4 p.m.

On Friday, Feb. 10, at 10 a.m., join author Cameile Henry for Family Storytime: Community Building and Storytelling at the Oakville Public Library’s Glen Abbey Branch.

In this family-friendly event, children come together to foster connections and celebrate diversity through engaging activities and captivating stories. The featured book is Mhina’s Gift which highlights bravery and friendship and celebrates courage and the importance of embracing our unique gifts.

For more information about these, and many more, events, visit the Town of Oakville website.