The Making of Canadian Black Herstory Session
My interest in world history blossomed in high school. I remember my Grade 12 World History course opening me up to the world wars, the Cold War, the Vietnam War, and the Cuban Missile Crisis. The way my teacher spoke about each topic filled me with curiosity and awe. So much so that I added visiting important WWII sites in Europe to my bucket list, as well as traveling to Vietnam—both of which I accomplished in my twenties and early thirties.
Sapa, Vietnam
Hiking up Sapa’s mountainous rice fields.
What I didn’t realize at the time was that I was never being taught Black History. I took additional history courses in high school and university, yet none included the lives, experiences, or contributions of Black people. I am embarrassed to admit that I once believed Black presence in Canada began after WWII, when Canada opened its doors more widely to Black and racialized communities in the 1960s and 70s—the same era my parents immigrated here.
Berlin Wall, Germany
In recent years, I’ve learned so much more about the history of Black people in Canada, and it has changed my life outlook. Inspired by Nikole Hannah-Jones’ 1619 Project and an anti-racism session I was planning, I embarked on an almost two month-long deep dive into Canadian Black History. That journey reshaped how I see myself and how I show up daily.
I was a presenter at at the Global Health Nursing Conference in Calgary, Alberta
Learning not only about the efforts but also the resistance, the refusal to accept limited options, fostering communities that grew and evolved despite oppression has allowed me to stand taller. I love facilitating Canadian Black History sessions and re‑inserting Black people into a narrative I was never taught on a topic I love. These sessions are full circle moments and bring me joy as I honor the ancestors and current legacy makers who have shaped this country and the path forward.
Over the last few months, an idea has taken root that I cannot shake off: developing a Canadian Black Herstory session—honoring the past and present Black women whose contributions brought us to where we are today. In a time when Black women have continuously been placed at the lowest rung of society, I am humbled to platform their beauty, efforts, and contributions that enable us all to be here.
👉 Spots will be limited. If you are interested in joining this session, access your virtual pass to secure your place. Let’s honor the legacy of Black women together.