Black History Month: Welcoming New People in our space Report

The event was delivered through a structured, multi-component program designed to balance education, dialogue, and cultural expression. The program began with a guided hockey training and history session led by community facilitators, providing participants with both practical exposure to the sport and insight into its cultural significance in Canada. This segment was intentionally designed to support newcomer orientation while fostering a shared cultural experience among participants. Following this, a moderated panel discussion on Black Excellence in Canada – Then, Now & Next brought together diverse perspectives, including a newcomer professional and a long-standing Canadian educator. The discussion explored themes of resilience, systemic barriers, identity, and intergenerational progress, while encouraging audience reflection and participation. The event concluded with a cultural music and celebration segment, creating space for informal interaction, cultural expression, and community bonding. Light refreshments were made available throughout the program to support a welcoming and inclusive environment.