Honouring Black History and Building Inclusive Communities
Black History Month represents a pivotal moment for reflection, celebration, and education. It's a time to honour the contributions, struggles, and triumphs of Black individuals across history and in contemporary society. As an organization committed to human rights education, we recognize Black History Month as an opportunity to delve into the past while calling for action in the present and future.
We must confront the persistent inequalities in our society, from systemic racism to economic disparities. Education serves as a powerful tool in our journey toward a future where human rights stand at the forefront of our society.
To aid in this educational effort, here are some tools we've developed over the years to raise awareness about the diverse experiences and perspectives within the Black community in Canada:
Journey for Justice Documentary and Report: For years, the unsolved murders of over 70 young men and youth of Somali heritage have left families without closure in Edmonton. The John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights (JHC), Taccalusa Institute, and the Coalition for Justice and Human Rights collaborated to raise awareness. In 2022, they organized a town hall forum resulting in a community-based report with diverse perspectives. It discusses barriers and pathways to strengthen investigations and support for Somali families. The report, written to retain original voices, offers actionable steps for positive change in our community.
Anti-Black Racism in Muslim Spaces Report: In Fall 2020, a diverse team of Muslim community members in Edmonton came together to tackle ongoing racist attitudes within Muslim spaces and institutions. Prompted by a previous attempt by Al Rashid Mosque to address racial injustice, revealing a lack of preparedness, especially regarding Black issues, this group convened regularly to foster inclusive Muslim spaces. This report shares insights and proposed actions from these dialogues, aiming to educate and transform Muslim spaces in Edmonton while honouring shared experiences and commitments to ongoing anti-Black racism action.
Paint the Rails was a collaboration with Edmonton Transit Service. It transformed public spaces through art, community engagement, and celebration of local history. As a legacy project of Canada 150+, PTR aimed to bring Edmonton's diverse cultural stories to life through art and education. Guided by community members including artists, elders, knowledge keepers, and historians, PTR unveiled five murals at various LRT stations, each inspired by community participation and perspectives. Stories that Weave Us, our mural for Kingsway transit centre, reflects on the histories of three Edmonton faith communities; Temple Beth Ora (Jewish), Shiloh Baptist Church (Christian) and Al Rashid Mosque (Muslim). Partners from each tradition shared the many milestones and moments in our local history that helped shape their story of hope and home.