February marks Black History Month—a time to learn, honour, and reflect on the rich history, contributions, and resilience of Black communities in British Columbia and around the world. It is an opportunity to recognize the achievements of Black creatives, storytellers, and cultural leaders while also acknowledging the systemic barriers that persist.
B.C.’s creative industries are actively participating by amplifying Black voices, sharing impactful stories, and taking meaningful action through initiatives that promote inclusivity and representation. From film and television to music, arts, and publishing, organizations are fostering spaces for Black creatives to thrive, providing resources, and advocating for systemic change. By celebrating both the legacy and future of Black artistry, these efforts contribute to a more diverse, equitable, and empowered creative community.
See upcoming events, resources, and touchpoints to celebrate Black History Month all year long.
Events
- Black History Month at VIFF | All month long
- ebonEmpress at Guilt & Co | February 4, 2025
- Underneath the Harlem Moon | Curated and produced by Krystle Dos Santos at Guilt & Co | February 5, 2025
- Hi-Fi Listening Session at Vancouver Art Gallery | February 6, 2025
- Reel Causes: A Night of Obsidian at Rio Theatre | February 6, 2025
- Toma Zenda at Guilt & Co | February 7, 2025
- Ethos Lab Black-a-thon | February 8, 2025
- Afro-Latinx Short Stories Reading Group at Vancouver Public Library | February 11, 2025
- NFB Sounds & Pressure: Reggae in a Foreign Land at Vancouver Public Library | February 11, 2025
- Krystle Dos Santos Performing the Music of Sade on Valentine’s Day | February 14, 2025
- Black Business Conference & Expo | February 15, 2025
- The Birdhouse OPEN DECKS: BHM Edition | February 21, 2025
Initiatives
- Celebrate Canadian perspectives from Black filmmakers with the NFB and their Focus on Black Filmmakers collection.
- Check out do604’s and do250’s curation of events.
- Champion an inclusive workplace in motion picture with Inclusivity Professional Development Training delivered in partnership with Creative Pathways™ and Elevate Inclusion Strategies.
- Celebrate with Vancouver Public Library by learning more about the history and achievements of Black Canadians.
- Read books by Black authors — see titles by local writers curated by Vancouver Public Library.
- The VIFF Centre marks Black History Month with a vibrant line-up of live events, guest-curated series, music documentaries, and more.
- Celebrate Black Excellence by watching these films and series from TELUS STORYHIVE.
- Support Black-owned businesses in Canada with this list of Black-owned Bookstores.
Organizations
- ADVANCE Canada’s Black Music Collective
- BC Black History Awareness Society
- Black Screen Office
- CultureBrew.Art
- Hogan’s Alley Society
- Vancouver Black Film Festival
Watch this space for all upcoming events, resources, and initiatives that will be rolling out in February.
