Student-led Black History Month kick-off held at LCVI

Students put together a ceremony for Black History Month.

Student organizers led a Black History Month opening ceremony at Loyalist Collegiate and Vocational Institute on Wednesday, Feb. 4, bringing together students, families and community members for an evening of education and celebration.

Organizers said the focus was on community, connection and learning through shared experiences. The ceremony started with two students sharing the stage to introduce the ceremony.

A student performed "Black Like Me" by Mickey Guyton which then led into a live performance by Cassel Miles portraying historic freedom seeker Josiah Henson.

Josiah Henson was born into slavery in the United States before escaping to Canada in 1830, leading his family to freedom. He later became an abolitionist, minister and community leader in Ontario, helping other formerly enslaved people and inspiring Uncle Tom’s Cabin.

The ceremony featured food, music and dancing, along with family-friendly programming. A Kids Zone included activities from Ruthy’s Reading Room.

The opening ceremony was presented by the Limestone District School Board in partnership with the LCVI BIPOC affinity group and was open to the public as the official kick-off to Black History Month programming across the board.

Story by Alyssa Brush