Recognizing Black history, imagining the future

Guided by community, the City of Kingston recognizes February as Black History/Futures Month. While the addition of a punctuation mark and an additional word may seem like a small change, it represents a substantial shift in approach and intention.

“Black history speaks to the historical context and realities of Black people and communities. Futures considers that while current circumstances are linked to history, the future is also linked to the present,” said Vanessa Mensah, Manager of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at the City of Kingston. “If we use the present to support and uplift Black communities and voices, we can begin to commit to a new future.”

“To the Black people here in Kingston and beyond, take what you need from this month to recharge, rejuvenate, renew, rest and reconnect, and continue loving yourself in a world that has much growing, much changing, and much redressing to do. Know that you are held and loved,” said Lavie Williams, from Kingston’s Black Luck Collective.

“The commitments to and reality of Black History/Futures are not merely contained to the shortest and coldest month of the year, they are always present, so to all, we encourage awareness and engagement at all times,” said Williams.

In support of Black History/Futures Month, the City of Kingston is amplifying community-led events taking place throughout the city and the community. A global calendar of events has been assembled in a Google Doc by members of local Black communities to centralize that information for all those interested. This calendar is being updated as new events are confirmed, check back frequently for new information. The opening event will take place on Jan. 31 at 12 p.m. on Zoom. The event is hosted by Queen’s University and community partners, and all are welcome to attend.

City Hall and Springer Market Square will be illuminated in red, green and yellow on Feb. 1 to celebrate the start of Black History/Futures Month.