Good morning folks
Happy Black History Month! This is the month that we in Ottawa and around the globe, celebrate the achievements of people of African descent. This year’s celebration is particularly significant, as it marks the end date of the United Nations Declaration of the Decade of People of African Descent. We hope that you, our esteemed readers, will take the time to participate in some of the many events organized or coordinated by our city’s premier heritage organization, Black History Ottawa. No surprise that our Top Story for the month of February is the launch of Black History Month at the National Gallery of Canada on Saturday 27 January, attended by dignitaries, as well our grassroot diverse population of the national capital.
And sticking with the Black History Month theme, we also bring you insights from our longtime columnist and social justice activist, Ketcia Peters with her piece: “Embracing the Legacy, Shaping the Future: Black History Month Unveiled.”
Our newest title page is named: In the spotlight with Andy, soon to become a regular feature from social advocate and political analyst, Professor Kwaku Andy Kusi-Appiah. His maiden contribution, co-authored with lawyer Kojo Allan, is titled: “Diversity and Demography: keys to our common future.”
We also bring you news about our dear friend and long-time community leader, Idowu Ladeinde, who recently celebrated her 60th birthday, in the company of hundreds of family and friends.
Two interesting Black-themed books are reviewed in this edition: Sons of the East by Onoshe Nwabuiku, and Send my bones to Saskatoon by Olivia Barrett.
Also, we feature an awesome video newsreel chronicling the 10 years of publication of Black Ottawa Scene, which premiered at the launch of the 2024 Black History Month, on Saturday 27 January 2024 at the National Gallery of Canada.
We resume our online interviews with our conversation with Olayinka Animashaun, Executive Director, Niagara African Caribbean Organization, describing the great work she has been doing in support of newcomer and refugees.
All these and more in the February 2024 edition of your favourite community news magazine.
Here is the result of the January 2024 poll: Do you plan to make a donation to a charity this year? Yes 75% No 25% Thank you to all who voted. And remember to vote in the February 2024 poll: Have you attended, or do you plan to attend a Black History Month event this February?
Our very best wishes to you, your family and loved ones.
Godwin Ifedi Editor
This edition of Black Ottawa Scene is funded in part by the Ontario Trillium Foundation
