I am a white-presenting woman, born and raised in Calgary, Alberta. My mother is white, born and raised in eastern Canada, and my father, of Indian and Portuguese descent, immigrated to Canada at a young age. This Black History Month, I wanted to explore how I, as a white woman, can support Black individuals and educate myself about Black history. This article aims to help other non-Black individuals find ways to practice allyship this month and throughout the year.
Black history is often overlooked in Canadian history books and mainstream media. This month presents an opportunity to celebrate Black communities, support their initiatives, and examine our own privileges. If you’ve remained silent because you feel uneducated or guilty, recognize that this inaction perpetuates systemic inequities. While white guilt won’t address the inequities faced by communities of colour, our actions can create meaningful change.
David Gaider once said, “Privilege is when you think something is not a problem because it is not a problem for you personally.” This quote emphasizes the importance of recognizing our privileges and taking action. Beyond celebrating the achievements and perseverance of Black individuals, this month should highlight the ongoing impact of systemic racism in our society. It’s crucial to understand that slavery was not the beginning of Black history but an interruption of it.
As non-Black allies, our role is to support, not to lead or dominate. This involves listening to and learning from Black experiences, supporting Black leadership, and amplifying Black voices. Engage in honest conversations to understand the unique challenges people of colour face and use your privilege to advocate for their needs and rights.
Here are ways to be a better ally year-round:
Diversify Your Network: Make authentic efforts to connect with people from various backgrounds. Challenge affinity bias by attending diverse events and joining inclusive groups.
Support Black-Owned Businesses: Support economic empowerment by shopping at Black-owned businesses, restaurants, bookstores, and supporting Black artists.
Attend Black History Month Events in Prince George:
- Culture Week at UNBC: Tuesday, February 4, 2025, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
- Community Event at Prince George Public Library: Saturday, February 15, 2025, 1:00 – 2:30 pm
- Canvases and Culture: Friday, February 21, 2025, 6:30 – 9:30 pm at UNBC’s Winter Garden
- Art & Trivia Night: Thursday, February 27, 2025, TBA
- Lagos Black History Month Night: Friday, February 28, 2025, 9:00 pm at Ignite Night Club
Share Your Learning Journey: Discuss race and your learning experiences with friends and family to normalize these conversations.
Read Books by Black Authors: Some recommendations include “A Taste of Power” by Elaine Brown, “Caste” by Isabel Wilkerson, and “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker.
Commit Year-Round: Continue learning about Black history and supporting racial justice beyond February.
Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable: Embrace difficult conversations and learn from mistakes as part of your growth.
Avoid Centering Yourself: Support the Black community while respecting their space and leadership.
Happy Black History Month to those who have changed the world in countless ways. While writing this article may not change everything, I believe in the power of learning, education, and most importantly, action. Let’s make Black History Month a journey, not a destination.
I want to credit the many authors and friends I have learned from while writing this: Adaiah Tupas-Singh, Nyemuon Vandale, Tyrell Laing, Debby Irving, Shay Stewart-Bouley, El Jones, Brooke Baxa, Melanie Harris, Elizabeth Baker, Jennifer Harvey, Craig Kielburger, Ryan Crowley, William L. Smith, Carly Muetterties, and any others I may have missed.
