In February 2022, Bishop Reding piloted the first ever history course about the African Canadian experience at the Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB).
The course, Origins of Citizenship (African Canadians), highlights the diversity of African cultures, the effects of the transatlantic slave trade, and systemic racism. It also explores the roots and impact of Black Canadians on society.
As part of the course, students were given the opportunity to collaborate with ALPHA Education to produce videos that focused on anti-Black racism.
Alpha Education is a non-profit charitable organization that contributes to peace and reconciliation and supports efforts in promoting awareness for the history of World War II in Asia.
Students Sephrah, Jonathan, Talia and Shannel were awarded first place for their video titled “Racism – The Mutating Monster”, and received a prize of $260!
“We appreciate being given the opportunity to create a piece of work that we hope will create uncomfortable conversations and foster change throughout Halton,” said Grade 11 student, Jonathan.
“It is always difficult to discuss Black trauma and suffering, but we believe these conversations are important. Nonetheless, we are grateful that Alpha Education provided us a platform to talk about these issues.”
Throughout the course, students participated in a variety of interactive activities, allowing them to infuse art with history. The first activity they worked on was creating Egyptian Clay art, led by Patricia Carrasquilla, from StreetDog Art Studio. While learning the nuances of clay art, students also learned important information about the Egyptian Civilization.
Local Milton artist, Omar “Oms” Hopkinson, facilitated an interactive art session where students were able to use their creativity while being inspired by music associated with the Black experience.
The class has also had exceptional guest speakers, such as award-winning author Ekiuwa Aire, who taught students about Queen Idia, from the Kingdom of Benin, as well as Lawrence Hill, who shared his experiences making his novel The Book of Negroes into a mini-series.
Congratulations to student winners Sephrah, Jonathan, Talia and Shannel, and thank you to Bishop Reding staff, Ms. Bonsu, and guest speakers for creating interactive and educational experiences for our students!
