Black history is an intrinsic element of Canada’s past, present and future. This history encompasses a narrative that extends beyond Black History Month in February. There is a need to integrate Black history into the core of Canada’s educational systems throughout the academic year and as a mandatory training component in helping professions.
Canada’s diverse history
Canada has been shaped by the invaluable contributions of Black Canadians in politics, sciences, arts and sports. The Black community’s influence is ingrained deeply in Canada’s history. Recognizing and understanding this history fosters a sense of belonging and inclusivity, providing a more accurate representation of the Canadian experience.
Comprehensive education throughout the year
According to an online website called WhatupHomee, while Black History Month presents oppourtunities to spotlight Black Canadian achievements and contributions, limiting the teaching of Black history to one month perpetuates a sense of “othering.” It implies that Black history is a niche topic rather than an integral part of the broader Canadian narrative. To address this, educational curricula at all levels education on Black history should be integrated throughout the academic year, allowing students to gain a nuanced understanding of the diverse perspectives shaping Canada.
By default, school-age children are taught the achievements and intelligence of Canadian individuals, featuring males of European descent. This image communicates the notion that excellence is exclusively associated with white males. When white children see individuals who look like them depicted in school curricula, they are encouraged to connect brilliance, genius, contribution and Canadian identity with that particular racial group. This perspective is evident in statements such as, “I don’t see race, I only identify as Canadian.” However, according to ETFO Voice, an Ontario magazine for elementary teachers, this portrayal of Canada presents a watered-down version of Canadian history that overlooks the significant contributions of other community members.
By integrating Black history into the curriculum all school year, students would be guided not to oversimplify or essentialize, as such tendencies risk stereotyping, generalizing or overlooking crucial factors like intersectionality—how race intersects with gender, class or ability.
Mandatory inclusion in helping professions
Black history education should be integrated into professional training programs and compulsory in higher education. It is particularly important to helping professions such as social work, counseling and healthcare. These fields play a crucial role in supporting individuals from various backgrounds, making it imperative for professionals to understand the historical context and cultural nuances that may influence their clients’ lives. It is unlikely that this level of understanding can occur with a cursory focus on Black history in one short month.
Understanding of historical and systemic injustices
In helping professions, understanding historical and systemic injustices is essential for providing effective and equitable services. Professionals who are well-versed in Black history can better recognize and address the unique challenges Black individuals and communities face. It helps the individual present their services in a culturally competent manner (Cultural competence refers to the ability to understand the unique challenges faced by individuals from diverse backgrounds). Cultural competence leads to more effective and empathetic service delivery.
Knowledge of Black Canadian history helps foster a commitment to social justice. York University found that professionals can use this framework to advocate for policies and practices that address historical injustices and promote fairness and equality.
Secondly, it would also encourage the examination of implicit biases within institutions and individuals. This awareness can lead to more equitable practices in social work, counseling and healthcare, reducing disparities in service provision. Professionals in this work, embark on their careers armed with an awareness of how deeply ingrained structural inequities in society that impact marginalized communities. This knowledge is pivotal in addressing systemic issues that affect the well-being of individuals and communities, ultimately dismantling barriers and fostering more culturally competent and inclusive practices.
Contrary to the fallacy that suggests Black people are disinterested in education, recent statistics from the 2021 Census reported by Stats Canada reveal that nearly one-third of the Black population holds a bachelor’s degree or higher, aligning closely with the year’s average for the total population. As the generations progress, the share of the Black population with higher education will continue to grow, challenging the perpetual notion of being “othered.” However, despite the interest in education and the academic achievements of Black Canadians and individuals, they will still primarily encounter the world and American history in academic settings. This setting happens with a lack of exposure to Black history, except for in February, when Black folks are doing the educating that is, most often, unpaid labour.
This knowledge gap contributes to a broader global posture that perpetuates examined ideas and unfounded stereotypes, particularly concerning Black people. The pervasive but unfounded notion that Black people are somehow inferior remains a powerful narrative, influencing perceptions and creating a significant incongruity. For instance, there exists a prevailing narrative suggesting that Black people do not value education, a notion that contradicts historical realities.
It is imperative to confront and dispel such misconceptions, emphasizing the historical contributions of African civilizations to education and knowledge. The existence of Sankore University in the 12th century challenges the stereotypes about Black people and education. Acknowledging these historical facts allows us to counteract false narratives and foster a more accurate understanding of diverse cultures and their educational legacies.
Recognizing Black history as integral to Canadian history is crucial to building a more inclusive and equitable society. Extending the teaching of Black history beyond February, integrating it into curricula at all levels and making it mandatory in helping professions lays the foundation for a more just and understanding future.
As we celebrate Black History Month, let it serve as a reminder that Black history is Canadian history that is not confined to a designated time but is an integral and inseparable part of the Canadian story.
Written by: Elvenia Gray-Sandiford, MSVU Student Submission
