News Release
2/12/2019
Aurora, ON – York Region District School Board is hosting a series of events throughout York Region schools to celebrate Black History Month and to commemorate the history of people of African heritage. These events intend to increase awareness of the contributions of persons of African descent on the cultural, economic, political and social fabric of Canada dating back to the 1600s.
“To celebrate the rich history and influence of people of African heritage in our communities is a great honour. We invite York Region District School Board students, staff and community members to participate in the Black History Month events being hosted throughout the Board,” said Louise Sirisko, Director, York Region District School Board.
“Black History Month is an excellent opportunity to reflect on the contributions of members of the African-Canadian diaspora. We welcome our partners and members of our community to celebrate the diversity of our schools,” said Cecil Roach, Coordinating Superintendent of Education, Indigenous Education and Equity.
Below are some of the events happening at YRDSB schools. Many schools will also be hosting assemblies and activities to highlight Black History Month and the contributions of persons from African heritage.
Patrick Walters
February 11 - Spoken word artist Patrick Walters will be leading workshops for students in periods 2 and 3 at Pierre Elliott Trudeau H.S.
Glenn Marais and the Mojo Train
February 13 – The Juno-nominated songwriter and guitar player Glenn Marais will perform with his band in two morning assemblies at Stephen Lewis S.S. The first assembly begins at 8:30 a.m. and the second at 9:45 a.m.
Sean Mauricette aka Subliminal
February 19 – Pierre Elliott Trudeau H.S. will be hosting keynote speaker Sean Mauricette aka Subliminal. Sean Mauricette is a beat-boxer, disk jockey and lyricist. He is also an actor and filmmaker.
Shandor Alphonso
February 19 – NHL referee Shandor Alphonso will be interviewed at Stephen Lewis S.S. at 9:45 a.m. by Tom Nadasdi, Head of Business. Shandor Alphonso is one of the few active black referees in the NHL. He will be talking about his life and career.
Rudi Quammie Williams
February 26 – Arts administrator and multi-disciplinary artist Rudi Quammie Williams will be at Pierre Elliott Trudeau H.S. Students will also be engaged through African drumming tutorials.
York Region District School Board is the third largest school district in Ontario with over 124,000 students in 177 elementary schools and 33 secondary schools. York Region students consistently perform above average in provincial testing and the Board is one of the top achievers in Ontario. For more information about the York Region District School Board, please visit the Board website and follow @YRDSB on Twitter.
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