CNC wants to advise students and employees of Black Excellence Day taking place this Saturday. It will be recognized on Friday within the college as the final working day before the weekend. The day is intended to recognize and encourage dialogue as well as learning about the struggle for human and civil rights for Black and racialized Canadians.
Developed by a Vancouver-based organization, several post-secondary institutions and school districts across British Columbia intend to recognize this day. The day was previously known as Black Shirt Day but has been renamed for this year.
The January 15th date was chosen in honour of the birthday of American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. We would also note several Canadian activists including but not limited to Kay Livingstone (whose efforts helped found the Congress of Black Women of Canada), Stanley Grizzle (a recipient of the Orders of Canada and Ontario for his role in labour activism), and Viola Desmond (due to her role in challenging racial segregation in Nova Scotia).
Staff, students and supporters of the Aboriginal Resource Centre (pictured) are supporting Black Excellence Day by wearing black shirts, recognizing the day’s meaning for Aboriginal peoples and marginalized people who encounter racism daily. Aboriginal studies students will write about racism and post those contributions in the Gathering Place.
CNC takes part in several recognition days throughout the year for diversity, equity, and inclusion. We hope this day offers you an opportunity to learn more about and recognize the continued efforts required to end systemic racism and discrimination.