Recognizing Black History 365

In its efforts to recognize Black history year-round, The Centre for Advancing the Interests of Black People announced a “Black History and Me” contest, asking tenants to share what Black History means to them through art—writing, drawings, and video. The Centre encouraged tenants to get creative. Following a month of promotions and submissions, The Centre selected two winners of the contest.

Meet our contest winners

Sanitra

“This piece demonstrates the power and pride one has when representing their island and culture during Caribana.”

Sanitra is a young creative who lives in Scarborough. Growing up in what she considered a “spirited neighbourhood,” Sanitra was inspired to become an influential artist with a passion for helping others. She draws inspiration from the stories she hears during her programs and workshops. Weaving together ethno-cultural and racial backgrounds is the foundation of each art piece.

Island Girl was created in November 2023. This artwork was inspired by a piece created by Tray Arts, a creative arts studio located in North York. With support from the organization, she brought her vision of a young girl playing mas in the Caribana parade to life.

“My artwork, Island Girl, hangs proudly in my room,” said Sanitra. “This piece was painted to celebrate my Black brothers and sisters and our culture and heritage."

The artwork was also shaped by a carnival costume Sanitra wore in 2022 while playing mas, focusing on highlighting the bold colours and textures worn during the Toronto Carnival and the girl’s youthfulness and strength.

Edwin

“What inspired me to create my poem is this tension between pain and optimism; a tough past, but still resilience and perseverance.”

Edwin lives in the West region and has been shaped by his family, friends, and community. Experiences within his lively neighbourhood have galvanized him into an intentional artist. He aims to inspire the next generation to follow their passion and strive for excellence.

“My understanding of Black History Month is layered and nuanced,” said Edwin. “It is meant as a time of celebration, though concurrently, it brings forth unease when looking back throughout history at the struggle and difficulty that has been endured.” Based on his interpretation of Black history, Edwin created a poem that draws on the tension between pain and optimism, resilience and perseverance.

What Black history means to me poem 

Black History Month is a time of reflection.

Though, at times, it evokes my apprehension.

Pain, oppression, and trauma through our history is vital to mention.

From the former communities of Africville in the East to Hogan’s Alley in the West,

Black people have had their communities demolished and destroyed.

Erasing the stories in textbooks and schools will not fill the void.

The plight of Black people in Canada is one to be learned.

Marginalization is an ominous cause of concern. If we begin to grow and cultivate positive seeds.

There is always hope for a better future indeed.

City of Toronto Emancipation Month activities

In recognition of Emancipation Month and to celebrate the rich contributions that people of African descent have made to our city and country, various events took place during August. Events included the Underground Freedom Train ride and the official Black Liberation Flag Raising at Nathan Philips Square.

To learn more about Emancipation Month, visit toronto.ca/emancipation-month. To find out more about The Centre team, you can email TheCentre@torontohousing.ca or visit The Centre page on our website.