
About Black History Month
Every February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and festivities that honour the legacy of Black people in Canada and their communities. Black History Month is an opportunity to engage in open dialogue and learn more about the stories Black communities in Canada have to tell about their histories, sacrifices and triumphs. Through education, awareness, and celebration, we strive to create a society that recognizes and appreciates the richness of its diverse population.
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About Our Theme
This Black History Month, we celebrate the deep connections that unite us—through shared history, culture, and community. The Ties That Bind Us honours the strength and resilience of Black individuals, families, and communities, recognizing that our collective journey has shaped and continues to shape our identity and future. Whether it’s the shared experiences of struggle, joy, love, or resistance, these ties hold us together and inspire us to move forward.
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​Black History Month 2025: The Ties That Bind Us
The Grande Prairie Intercultural Association, the Grande Prairie Public Library, and our many incredible community partners are excited to announce upcoming celebrations for Black History Month. We invite the community to celebrate the cultural ties that bind us by attending and participating in three local events throughout February.
2025 Black History Month Events in Grande Prairie
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The Ties That Bind Us: Rice, Black Hair and Power | Opening Ceremony
February 1, 1-3 pm - Rotary Room, Grande Prairie Public Library
Join us on Saturday, February 1, from 1 to 3 PM for the Opening Ceremony of Black History Month. The program will feature a proclamation by City of Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton and County of Grande Prairie Reeve Bob Marshall, along with storytime, a Jollof tasting, a braiding demonstration, a short documentary screening, and a panel conversation with Q&A. Don’t miss this exciting kickoff to a month of celebration and learning!
Panelists
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Akisa Mukaga, Youth Activist
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Oreoluwa Fakoya, Social Worker
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Jada Lea, Cultural Analyst
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Natasha Anderson, YouTuber
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Elizabeth Aluko, Beauty Industry Entrepreneur
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Tina Jestina, Hair Care Specialist
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Community Over Empire: The Line That Divide | Art Exhibition
Opening Reception | Feb 7, 7-9 PM - Centre For Creative Arts
Art Exhibition | Jan 17 - Feb 28 - Centre For Creative Arts
The Opening Reception for the Community Over Empire: The Line That Divides exhibition on February 7, from 7–9 PM at the Centre for Creative Arts. The exhibition, showcasing the work of local talents Aretha Laverne, Aurel Tsafack, and fashion designers Jane Oppong of JELAns Fashion and Tommy of Dekur Clothings, is free to experience from January 17 to February 28.
Community Over Empire: The Line That Divides explores how artists and artisans from Africa and the African Diaspora express their creative contributions to the cultural tapestry of Grande Prairie.
Pre-registration is not required.
Gala
March 1, 2025, 4:30 - 11 PM - Paradise Inn
Our Gala event is an inspiring and celebratory evening marking the culmination of Black History Month. This reflective yet vibrant event will include a mixer, dinner, and entertainment program featuring live performances, a fashion show, and a keynote speech from local physician Dr. Ivy Francis-Akolo, titled Building Stronger Communities: Empowerment, Resilience, and the Ties That Bind Us followed by a dance to close the night. The Gala invites the community to celebrate Black history, foster connections, and learn in an engaging atmosphere. Limited childcare will be available until 8:00 PM for families attending the event. Tickets are free for children and youth under 18, $30 for adults, and $10 for adults joining exclusively for the dance portion. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate culture and community!
The dress code for the gala event is semi-formal to formal. Pre-registration is required.