By Kerry-Anne from the Guelph Black Heritage Society
February is Black History Month and the Guelph Black Heritage Society (GBHS) is excited to invite you to visit Guelph for the events we have planned!
Guelph Black Heritage Society and Heritage Hall:
Our organization was created after purchasing the Black Methodist Episcopal (BME) Church at 83 Essex Street. The church was built by former and fugitive slaves that escaped from the United States and eventually to the Guelph area via the underground railroad. Purchasing and maintaining this church, now re-branded Heritage Hall, was incredibly important for the enrichment of this community. Now, we continue to ensure that Heritage Hall remains a social, historical, and cultural hub in this city.
This month, we are excited to host a number of events to celebrate Black History Month. The first was our Black History Month kick-off event at Royal City Brewery. Last year we partnered with Royal City Brewery to introduce the Lantern Ale and on January 24th of this year, the brew was re-launched! Below are a few pictures from the event:
See more photos here
Here is a preview of some of the other events to look forward to this month:
Viola Desmond Tribute
On Saturday February 3rd, we will be recognizing the legacy of Viola Desmond. Fittingly, this is also the year that the new $10 bill in commemoration of Viola Desmond will go into circulation. Come to Heritage Hall to see performances from Flex We Talent Theatre Company and Andrew Craig, and a short talk from local historian Jerry Prager.
Why We Can’t Wait: A Celebration of Jazz and Blues
On February 11th, we will be co-hosting a Jazz and Blues music celebration in partnership with Hope House, the Life Centre, and Silence. The event will feature the sounds of Joni NehRita and a short documentary called Hot 8 by Noisemakers. It will prove to be quite a fun and unique way to celebrate black culture!
Family Drumming Workshop
One of our most popular events will be happening on the last Saturday of February. Bring your family and participate in our drumming workshop with the Funga Drummers at Heritage Hall. Get there early because space is limited and this event is always sold out!
For a full schedule of events, follow this link guelphblackheritage.ca/events or check out the poster below. Can’t wait to see you all there! #BlackHistoryMonth2018
