Marcel Stewart, the artistic director of B Current Performing Arts, is a man on a mission to unearth and celebrate the hidden gems of Black Canadian history.

He says his project, “Reclaiming Black Canadian History,” is not just a passion but a vital endeavor to educate and inspire.
Stewart’s journey began recently at a gala event in St. Catharines, where he was struck by the Master of Ceremonies’ recitation of names important to Black history in Canada.
As the MC called out names unfamiliar to Stewart, he felt a pang of curiosity and disbelief. Who are these people? he wondered.
One name, in particular, piqued his interest: Chloe Cooley, a woman of African descent who fought to escape from slavery. His shock at not recognizing her name, propelled him into a research frenzy. He was astounded by Cooley’s significance and realized there was a vast tapestry of Black Canadian history left untold.
Determined to fill this void, Stuart began developing his project that delved into many unfamiliar stories and through conversations with colleagues and fellow artists, he discovered a shared enthusiasm for uncovering hidden histories. The response from adults, who expressed a desire for their children to learn about these stories, further fuelled his mission.
As both an artist and an educator, Stewart recognizes the transformative power of arts education. He believes that drama-based and theatre-based education are magical tools for empowerment and engagement. Stewart’s approach to teaching Black Canadian history is far from traditional. Instead of pop quizzes and essays, he facilitates conversations sparked by curiosity.
In his classes, students research 12 historical Black Canadians, exploring their lives, achievements, and the impact they had on Canadian history. Through creative presentations, students share what they have learned, fostering a deep understanding and appreciation for these unsung heroes.
Stewart’s aim is not merely to regurgitate history but to find his own voice in sharing these stories. He wants students to understand that history is not a fixed narrative but a dynamic tapestry to which they can contribute.
Stewart hopes that through his work, students will realize that history is accessible and that they have the power to uncover and share stories that have been overlooked for too long.
As he explained, his project is not just about reclaiming history but about empowering the next generation to be active participants in shaping their understanding of the past. More about B Current at https://www.bcurrent.ca/