The Heru Drummers’ performance launched Ottawa’s celebration of Black History Month.
The black and white photographs cast grim stares out at the crowd Feb. 1.
The pictures were part of City of Ottawa’s official launch of Black History Month, which took place at Library and Archives Canada.
They told the tale of a people relegated to the margins of Canada's history books.
“The history of Canadians of African descent is not a sidebar. The history of black Canadians is completely interwoven with the history of Canada,” said Jason Kenney, Secretary of State for Multiculturalism and Canadian Identity, in a speech.
Although Canada eventually became a haven for black refugees escaping north, this country has had its own history of involvement in the slave trade.
As a colony of Britain, it did not outlaw slavery until England abolished the practice in 1833.
“Mainstream Canada is in denial about certain ugly aspects of its history,” said Sarah Onyango, public relations officer for Black History Ottawa.
The organization, which started as a small collective of West Indian associations, has been hosting the launch of the annual event since 1985.
“Even if it makes them squirm, they should be aware of where another community is coming from.”
With that in mind, Heritage Canada, in partnership with Parks Canada, is taking advantage of Black History Month to educate people of all ethnicities about the history of African-Canadians.
On the Road North: Black Canada and the Journey to Freedom, is a compelling series of photographs and other images that depict the realities of slavery in Canada's past. The exhibit opened in conjunction with Black History Month’s launch, also at Library and Archives Canada.
Canadians do not know as much about their history as they should, said Marc Duhaime, lead specialist for Commemorative Integrity with Parks Canada.
“With February being Black History Month, it’s a great opportunity to pay more attention to the history and the heritage of black Canadians,” said Duhaime.
“There’s an erroneous assumption that because it’s called Black History Month, it’s only for the black community,” said Onyango. “We want people to get to know our history and the black contribution to the building of the community and Canada.”
It was a sentiment that was echoed throughout the evening’s program, which kicked off with performances by the Heru Drummers, an African drumming ensemble, and the gospel singers O.N.E. Faith.
Charles Barrett, whose fascination with his people's history began in his childhood, is well aware of where his community is coming from. But he said he finds where it is headed just as important.
Facing the exhibit’s final panel, Barrett points to the familiar faces within.
The other side of the glass contains vibrant, colour photographs of some of today’s most prominent African-Canadians.
“Hero, heroine, heroine,” he was referring to Lincoln Alexander, former Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario; Jean Augustine, the first black woman elected to Parliament; and Michaëlle Jean, Canada’s current Governor General.
Barrett said it is important to emphasize the accomplishments of black people despite their history of being systematically suppressed and oppressed.
“I’m proud of the achievements we have made in Canada,” he said. “I pay strict attention and let my grandchildren know that (as black people) we are not just good, we are second to none.”