Honouring Black History Month at Beechwood Elementary
submitted by Joanna Turowetz, Vice-President Beechwood Home & School
At Beechwood Elementary, Black History Month is more than a celebration; it is an opportunity for learning, reflection, and inspiration. Through presentations, assemblies, and creative workshops, students across grade levels explored Black history, culture, and identity in meaningful and age-appropriate ways.
Cycle 2 and 3 students had the incredible opportunity to experience Tracking Black Canada: Breaking Barriers Edition, presented by Omari Newton from Overture with the Arts. Through a lively mix of spoken word, humour, multimedia, and audience participation, Omari brought to life the stories of Black pioneers in Canadian history – individuals who overcame systemic barriers and paved the way for future generations.
During the presentation, Jane R. reflected, “I feel like I’ve never learned these things.” This comment highlighted an important truth. Despite its central role in Canada’s story, Black history is still not consistently taught. Moments like this reinforce why these stories should be revisited throughout the school year, not only during one designated month.
Omari’s engaging approach made the experience both eye-opening and accessible, encouraging curiosity and thoughtful discussion. Students left with a deeper understanding of the contributions Black Canadians have made and continue to make to the country.
Later in the month, Beechwood welcomed illustrator, author, and graphic designer Danielle Cox (styled “danielle cox”) for assemblies with K4, K5, and Cycle 1 students. Creator of the Black Queens and Black Kings colouring books, author of the HarperCollins board book My Hair, and founder of Zuri & Dre, danielle shared her journey as an artist and entrepreneur. She read My Hair to students and introduced dolls inspired by her original illustrations. Each doll celebrates different hairstyles, skin tones, and identities, reinforcing self-love, confidence, and the value of representation. danielle will also return throughout the month to lead workshops where K4 and K5 students will colour pages she personally designed and illustrated.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Ms. Patricia Aldred for coordinating these meaningful experiences. The events were made possible through the generous support and contributions of Beechwood Home & School, as well as the LBPSB Intercultural Advisory Committee Grant and Élan ArtEd’s Artist Inspire Grant, which help fund cultural learning experiences and artist-led programs for students.
Together, these initiatives created an inspiring and unforgettable start to Black History Month at Beechwood Elementary. They emphasized learning, representation, and the understanding that Black history is an essential part of Canada’s shared story.
