Emilie Vadeboncoeur – Director of Marketing and Communications

February marks the official launch of Black History Month 2026. Black History Month is a time to honour the history, resilience and contributions of black communities within Lennoxville as well as the rest of Canada. This year’s Government of Canada’s theme is “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations, From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.” This theme seeks to celebrate three decades of recognizing Black excellence and the lasting impact that Black Canadians have had on this country’s past, present and future.

Image courtesy of Latoya Simms

Here at Bishop’s, the month will be highlighted through many special events from Feb. 2 to Feb. 26, including a screening of The Legacy Academy documentary and a Black Professionals Networking Event. Both events represent building opportunities for the future that invite students to learn and connect.

The Legacy Academy documentary screening will be taking place on Thursday, Feb. 12^, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Gait. The Legacy Academy is an uplifting film that dives into the pioneering work of Imhotep’s Legacy Academy, a transformative university-community alliance dedicated to bridging the achievement gap for African Nova Scotian students in grades six to 12. The screening will be followed by the opportunity for discussion with refreshments.

The Black Professionals Networking event, also taking place on Thursday, Feb. 12, in the Gait, will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. This will be an opportunity for Black students to expand their networks, meet and connect with industry leaders and receive career advice. Students can expect free appetizers and a drink ticket as part of this event.

Here on campus, Black History Month is also supported by PULSE (People United for the Love of African and Caribbean Societies Empowerment), a student-led organization committed to fostering an inclusive environment where students of African and Caribbean descent feel empowered, valued and supported. PULSE helps create a more equitable campus for everyone.

Black History Month is not just about celebrating the past; it is about honouring the ongoing creativity, leadership and innovation of Black communities today and looking toward the future.  Together, these events and initiatives highlight an ongoing commitment to celebrating Black excellence within the Bishop’s community. 

Students are encouraged to take part in Black History Month by attending events, starting conversations and learning more about the history and contributions of Black communities in Canada. These moments offer opportunities to listen, reflect and engage beyond the classroom.