February 13, 2019

Black History Month will be celebrated in several Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario (CSCNO) schools this year. École catholique Félix-Ricard (Sudbury) teacher Mr. Jean-Marie Ngouabe will take advantage of this opportunity to sensitize students at his school about African-American history and culture through events scheduled from February 19 to 21. Media representatives are welcome to attend these activities, which will take place at École Félix-Ricard, 691 Lasalle Blvd.

On Tuesday, February 19, an exhibit showcasing African-American art will be set up in the school foyer. Students will also be invited to write a greeting in a foreign language on a board set up near the entrance to the school.

On Wednesday, February 20, the board at the foyer will be used by students to display the names of people from visible minorities admired by the students. They will also be asked to bring objects symbolizing black culture for display on a table near the entrance. On the same day, awareness presentations about African-American culture and history will also be given. The presentations are scheduled from 9 to 9:40 a.m. for grade 3 to 6 students 6 and from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. for students in grades 7 and 8.

The celebration will conclude on Thursday, February 21 with a theme day, giving students an opportunity to come to school dressed in African-style clothing.

“Black History Month is a celebration of the end to slavery in the United States. In 1995, a motion to recognize Black History Month in Canada was brought forward by Jean Augustine and passed in the House of Commons,” explained Jean-Marie Ngouabe. “Countless people have contributed to the struggle for African-American rights in Canada. Raising awareness among the next generation of Canadians will help us to eradicate racism, which unfortunately persists in today’s society.”

The Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario offers a French Catholic Educational Program that is widely recognized for its excellence. The CSCNO provides a quality learning environment and academic program that runs from early childhood to adult education, with some 7,000 students enrolled in 27 elementary and 10 secondary schools.

Source:
Brigitte Morin
External Relations Coordinator
Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario
705-673-5626, ext. 389
705-690-9740 (cell)