Black History Month is here—a time to celebrate, learn, and reflect on the remarkable contributions of Black Canadians to our shared history and culture. At Ottawa Public Library, we’ve prepared an exciting lineup of events to inspire, educate, and connect.
We have an exciting French event February 7, at 7 PM: Afrofuturisme – Réimaginer les futurs de la diaspora africaine. Mélodie Joseph, a brilliant author, will dive into the powerful artistic movement of Afrofuturism and its reimagining of diasporic futures.
On February 25, 7 PM, we invite you to Greenboro branch for a film screening in partnership with CBC, Celebrate Black History Through Film and Music - Bridging the Gap: Legacy in Harmony. A journey through Ottawa's Black artistic heritage, weaving together the stories of pioneers, contemporary music voices, and emerging talents, reflecting the city's rich cultural tapestry.
We have engaging branch programs like storytelling workshops and Afro-Caribbean dance classes for families and kids, offering opportunities to explore culture in dynamic ways. We also have screenings planned for film lovers. Here’s a list of what’s taking place at OPL branches:
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February 1, 2 PM, at Nepean Centrepointe branch, Black History Month Film - John Ware Reclaimed
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February 1, 3:30 PM, at Emerald Plaza branch, Traditional Storytelling
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February 3, 10:30 AM, at Greely branch, Afro-Carribean Dance
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February 7, 1:30 PM, at North Gloucester branch, Afro-Carribean Dance
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February 7, 2 PM, at Cumberland branch, Sci-Fi Fridays film screening: Parallel
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February 7, 3:45 PM, at Hazeldean branch, Traditional Storytelling
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February 8, 2:30 PM, at Blackburn Hamlet branch, Traditional Storytelling with Jacqui Du Toit
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February 9, 2 PM, at Cumberland branch, Docu-dimanche: Ali Farka Touré: Ça coule de source
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February 9, 2 PM, at Nepean Centrepointe branch, Stories from the Black Diaspora
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February 12, 1:30 PM, at Metcalfe village branch, Afro-Carribean Dance
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February 14, 1:30 PM, at Beaverbrook branch, Afro-Carribean Dance
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February 21, 3:30 PM at Carlingwood branch: Character Development Workshop
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February 22, 2:30 PM at Centennial branch: Film Screening: Someone Like Me
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February 22, 3 PM at Greenboro branch: Black History Month Film Screening: John Ware Reclaimed
All our events are free because we believe in making learning and celebration accessible to everyone. Whether you join us in person or online, we hope you’ll take part in this month of discovery and connection.
Be sure to check out our booklist to discover more stories, histories, and voices that celebrate Black heritage and culture!
Visit biblioottawalibrary.ca for the full schedule and join us in celebrating Black History Month at OPL.