Editor
Good morning all
Those of us in Ottawa have been subjected to the coldest February since 9135, which is really going back a long way. As I write it is minus 35 degrees Celsius with the wind chill factor! But Canadians are known for our hardiness and we take it all in our stride, though we always complain to anyone who would listen! No wonder the popularity of winter sports like skiing, skating and snow shoeing. Which brings up the issue of Black History month which dominates our March edition. The timing itself is problematical for the organisers of the various events, as it is next to impossible to predict attendance. A winter storm such as we’ve had lately will most likely play havoc with the number of participants. One sometimes wishes that we were like the UK where Black History month is celebrated in October, unlike the rest of the world where February is the norm.
No such problem with the launch and opening ceremony held on 31 January, to a full house at the Ben Franklin Place, on a dry and sunny Saturday afternoon, our top story for the March edition. other notable events were the “in Living Colour” , a Black History Month extravaganza at the Colonel By Secondary School, as well as the “Nigerian Panorama”, showcasing the history and culture of Africa’s most populous country. The Ottawa YMCA-YWCA formally got into the Black History Month celebrations for the first time, with an event for each week of February, culminating in a ceremony of cultural music and dance and inspirational speeches to bring the month to a fitting end. But beyond Black History Month, the March edition carries other exciting features. New guest writer Tika Rochell makes her debut with a review of the award winning American civil rights historical drama “Selma”, while Mike Iwebuka gives readers the perspective of a new arrival in Canada. You will also be pleased with our regular feature : People Making a Difference” about Barbara Reynolds, who brings compassion to foster parenting of children at risk. Our interview this month features community leader and President of Jaku Konbit, Ken Campbell, who speaks of the many innovative projects his organisation has initiated over the years, to mentor and motivate black children and youth in Canada’s national capital.
Not to forget to take part in our monthly survey, this time about winter (what else!)
Enjoy.
Godwin Ifedi
Editor