Canada Black Music Archives Celebrates Black History Month with Special Event

The Canada Black Music Archive (CBMA) is thrilled to announce a special event in honor of Black History Month, scheduled for February 23rd at the City of Toronto Archives. This musical celebration will feature live performances, an exhibition, a special audio-visual presentation, and distinguished guests.

Michael Williams

Several artists will take the stage, presenting melodies that resonate with the rich cultural heritage celebrated during Black History Month. Performers include the Canadian Queen of Hip Hop, Michie Mee; blues and soul artist Shakura S’Aida; reggae and blues artist Jay Douglas; African multi-instrumentalist Kobena AquaaHarrison; and award-winning DJ Carl Allen, who will spin an exciting mix of Canadian Black musicians. Hosting the event is Michael Williams, a former radio personality and television host on MuchMusic.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a selected collection of music, photographs, interviews, and historical documents, shedding light on the invaluable contributions of Black Canadian musicians. A featured display will showcase the work of African Canadian musician Eric Mercury.

Michie Mee

Black History Month has been celebrated for decades in the US and Canada; however, it wasn’t until December 1995 that the House of Commons voted unanimously to recognize February as Black History Month, following a motion introduced by MP Dr. Jean Augustine. Since then, it has become a crucial period for all Canadians to recognize the diverse histories, cultures, and experiences of Black Canadians.

Among the special guests is Rosemary Sadlier, the former executive director of the Ontario Black History Society and a long-time advocate for the official acknowledgment of Emancipation Day at various levels of government.

Shakura S’Aida

The Canada Black Music Archives is a digital repository of educational information, dedicated to preserving and amplifying the multifaceted and underestimated history of Black Canadian artists. Through its extensive collection of music, photographs, interviews, and historical documents, the CBMA strives to raise awareness about the voices and experiences of Black Canadian musicians.

The CBMA expresses profound gratitude to TD Bank Group, Ontario Creates, Public Address, and the City of Toronto Archives for their generous support. The CBMA also thanks WORD Magazine, Lake of Bays Brewing Company, the City of Toronto, interns, individuals, and other organizations for their contributions.

Together, let’s make this event a tribute to the lasting legacy of Black Canadian music.