Gatineau Celebrates Black History Month 

Sophie Demers 

From February 1 to 28 Gatineau will celebrate its 20th edition of Black History Month. Mois de l'histoire des Noirs à Gatineau (MHN) is hosting various virtual events including discussions, panels and talks showcasing people, events and experiences of the Black community in society. All events are virtual and are broadcasted on the MHN and Conseil de la Communauté noire de Gatineau (CCNG) Facebook pages. 

The theme this year is “Do Better Together”. According to the MHN website this means working together to fight against inequality, discrimination and disparities and leaving a legacy for future generations. 

Some highlights include: 

• “Getting real with Paula” on February 9th at 7pm where experts will discuss unconscious bias, intersectionality, and microaggressions. 
• Storytime with Sylberte Derosiers on Sundays February 13 and 27 from 10am. This event will share Children's stories written by Haitien Authors. 
• Talk with local Black doctors on February 22nd at 6:30pm. 
• A conversation with the Gatineau Police Service on Wednesday February 23, from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm 
• Discussion with exceptional women. Saturday, February 26 at 5:00. This even will discuss the injustices and inequalities Black women face and they are leaders and pioneers in their communities. 
• Virtual Roundtable “31 Years of MHN Celebration in Quebec” on Monday 28 February 2022 at 6:30. This event is the first time Quebec is coming together in unison to celebrate Black History Month at the invitation of the Cabaret de la Diversité. 
  
  

The events are presented by the CCNG in collaboration with the City of Gatineau and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) with funding from the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration. 

Gatineau has been celebrating Black History Month since 2003. In 2007, the National Assembly passed the bill to make February Black History Month, in order to recognize the historic contribution of Black communities to Quebec society. Dr Carter G. Woodson was the first to create Black History Month in the United States in 1926. 

For a complete list of upcoming events and more information, visit https://mhngatineau.com/