Books & Audiobooks
We are celebrating Black History Month and recognizing the outstanding contributions made by the Black community in Waterloo Region, in Canada and beyond.
Black History Month is an opportunity to learn, reflect and appreciate the achievements and legacy of Black Canadians. Learn more about Black History Month in Canada.
Discover Black History Month events and reading lists below and join the celebration.
Adult / Teen
Kids / Tweens
Anansi and Di Snowstorm Performance with Ujima: Black History Month & Beyond @UW
Anansi and Di Snowstorm Performance
Featuring an original story by Dr. Clive Forrester from the Department of English Language and Literature at the University of Waterloo and performance by Letna Allen-Rowe aka "Miss Letna".
CBC Corner Black Stories Collection
CBC Corner
Watch the Black Stories Collection of movies, documentaries and television series on CBC Gem.
eBooks & eAudiobooks with Libby for Black History Month
eBooks & eAudiobooks with downloadLibrary & Libby
Find a selection of eBooks and eAudiobooks celebrating Black Voices from downloadLibrary and the Libby app.
Films for Black History Month
Stream films by Black filmmakers and about the Black experience with Kanopy.
Community Events & Resources
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Kitchener Public Library
Check out the Kitchener Public Library’s Black History Month programs and events, including film screenings, guest speakers and more.
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Wilfrid Laurier University
Throughout Black History Month and the rest of the year, Wilfrid Laurier University invites you to learn about their inspiring Black student leaders, exceptional faculty and staff members and our impactful alumni through the stories, events and learning opportunities featured. Discover stories, resources, events and more.
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Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region
The Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region (CCAWR) is a non-profit organization serving Waterloo Region’s Caribbean community. Organized in 1975, they are committed to strengthening and enhancing the quality of life of families and individuals by providing culturally sensitive programs, support, resources, education and training.
Join the CCAWR on February 4 for their Black History Month 2024 Launch: Black History, Black Heritage, Black Future. Learn more here.
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Guelph Black Heritage Society
Join the Guelph Black Heritage Society (GBHS) for “Say It Loud,” an incredible celebration of the rich and vibrant history of Black music! From soulful blues to electrifying hip-hop, this event will showcase the powerful impact of Black artists on the music industry.
Learn more and get tickets here. Please note that this is a paid event.
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Ontario Heritage Trust
Ontario Heritage Trust is offering a FREE virtual tour of the Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History which will explore the story of Reverend Josiah Henson – abolitionist and Underground Railroad conductor – and the history of the Underground Railroad. Learn more about programs and events being offered by the Ontario Heritage Trust.
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Stroll Guided Walking Tours
Stroll Walking Tours offer curated private walking tours on a variety of subjects. Learn more about the Black Presence in Berlin tour, which takes place in Downtown Kitchener. Please note that these are paid tours.
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Rhythm & Blues Cambridge
Rhythm & Blues Cambridge is a gathering place to explore our rich and diverse history, our “Rhythm and Blues”. It is a unique hub for community and engagement that supports and showcases the black community in Cambridge. It promotes and appreciates the Black experience by building partnerships, sharing and develop vital resources for our community. View the Rhythm & Blues Committee’s Black History Month page.
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University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo is pleased to celebrate the diversity of people of African descent in Canada and their importance to the history and prosperity of this country. Discover events, the Black history of UW, stories and more with the University of Waterloo’s Black History Month page.
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Homer Watson House & Gallery
In celebration of Black History Month, Homer Watson House & Gallery is hosting a virtual youth art exhibition.
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African Women Alliance of Waterloo Region
The African Women’s Alliance of Waterloo Region is a nonprofit community based organization founded in 1995. Their mission is to promote African culture and heritage to members of the African community and the general populace in Waterloo Region through educational and social activities. Learn more.
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Bring on the Sunshine Annual Festival
BOTS (Bring on the Sunshine) has hosted a family day festival since 2010 which typically sees 3000-5000 people attend each year. The schedule of the day includes a full musical stage line up, a market place with diverse and artisan items, and workshops such as drumming, dance and more. New educational content annually expanding your knowledge of Black History. Learn more here.