The University of Guelph marks Black History Month in February with displays, lectures and other events open to students, staff and the Guelph community.

U of G’s Office of Intercultural Affairs worked with the C.J. Munford Centre, the Central Student Association, Guelph Black Heritage Society (GBHS) and other campus groups to organize activities.

“Black History Month allows people to gain insight into the experiences of black Canadians and their role in forming our community and country,” said Brenda Whiteside, associate vice-president of student affairs at U of G.

“It also provides an opportunity for discussion and engagement on important issues, and builds a spirit of unity and harmony.”

Black History Month was launched Feb. 1 with an African drumming circle in the University Centre courtyard and a discussion about black history and heritage by Marva Wisdom, GBHS president.

Feb. 3, a display about influential black Canadians will be in the UC courtyard. At 5:30 p.m., the Munford Centre will host a discussion on black excellence in the MacKinnon Building, Rooms 54 and 55. Another discussion is planned for Feb. 10 at the same time.

CFRU Radio will air a special Black History Month show Feb. 5, with 24 hours of black programming.

A transformative justice panel discussion will be held Feb. 24 at 5:30 p.m. in the Thornbrough Building, Room 1307.

Blackout 2.0, a concert to celebrate Black History Month, will take place at 9 p.m. Feb. 27 at the Making Box at 205-40 Baker St., Guelph.

Other events will be posted on the Black History Month Facebook page as they are confirmed.