Youth and staff from the °µºÚ±¬ÁϹÙÍø School District are among the organizers and speakers of the second annual Black Excellence Day, which is being hosted by the District and put on by the – the organization that founded the day.
The event is taking place on Friday, January 13 at Byrne Creek Community School with thousands from school districts throughout BC signed up to join virtually. At least 20 school districts and five independent schools will be a part of it, with more than 30,000 attendees anticipated, more than doubling last year’s attendance.
The goal of the day is to raise awareness, uplift and bring hope to not only Black youth, but all racialized and non-racialized youth. Designed as a learning opportunity and celebration of Black achievements, stories, art, people, joy, love, and history, the timing of the event was scheduled to coincide with the last weekday before the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Participants will hear from several speakers including many presenters and performers, ranging from politicians and community organizers to athletes and artists. A student from Byrne Creek is among the youth who are sharing their own lived experiences, what Black Excellence means to them, and words of wisdom.
Events, such as this, are powerful opportunities for learning, building awareness and advocating for change. The District is continuing its broader work and journey to support an equitable, diverse and inclusive environment for all.
Learn more about Black Excellence Day and see a full list of presentersÌý.
See highlights from the event and celebration .
Read the news coverage in the media:
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Read about awareness-building efforts, opportunities to celebrate culture and diversity, as well as anti-racism work happening in °µºÚ±¬ÁϹÙÍø Schools:
Learning Through Indigenous Teachings and Honouring Culture
Celebrating Black Excellence Beyond Black History Month – October 2022
Next Steps Coming: Action on Racism – September 2022
Anti-Racism Lead Nominated for Premier’s Award for Work in District – September 2022
Raising Diverse Student Voices and Opportunities – May 2022
Honouring Community Traditions and Practices – May 2022
Honouring and Learning About Black History – February 2022
District Hosting Black Excellence Day for Thousands – January 2022
Dismantling Racism: Invitation to Engagement Process – May 2021
Asian Heritage Month: Honouring, Celebrating and Taking Action – May 2021
Black History Month: Celebrating & Learning – February 2021
Supporting Black Shirt Day – January 2021
Continuing Our Journey: Supporting Anti-Racism – October 2020
Action on Racism: °µºÚ±¬ÁϹÙÍø – June 2020
Celebrating Black History Month in °µºÚ±¬ÁϹÙÍø Schools – February 2019
Updated January 16, 2023