Black History Month is a time to honor, celebrate, and reflect on the rich contributions of Black communities to history, culture, and society. Throughout February, London, Ontario, will host a series of engaging events and activities highlighting Black excellence, resilience, and heritage. CRHESI is pleased to share these opportunities with our members. While these events are not organized by CRHESI, we encourage our community to participate, learn, and support the initiatives taking place in our city.
Upcoming Events and Activities
Building Capacity & Resilience in Black-led Organizations
Date: February 12, 2025
Time: 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Venue: Innovation Works – CommUNITY Living Room
Details: The “Building Capacity & Resilience in Black-led Organizations” event focuses on strengthening Black-led and Black-serving organizations by providing tools for long-term sustainability. Through insightful discussions, participants will explore strategies for enhancing organizational infrastructure, securing funding, and fostering leadership development. Expert panelists will share knowledge on governance excellence, volunteer engagement, and community impact. The event creates a space for meaningful conversations and collaboration among leaders, advocates, and supporters of Black communities. By addressing systemic challenges and opportunities, this initiative aims to empower organizations to thrive and drive lasting change.
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Black History Month Family Celebration
Date: February 08, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 01:00 PM
Venue: Central Library, London, ON
Details: Celebrate the richness of Black history and culture at the London Public Library’s annual Family Celebration Event. This event offers fun games, creative crafts, and interactive workshops suitable for all ages. Attendees will enjoy performances by local artists, including music, dance, and storytelling. The event is presented in collaboration with the London Black Heritage Council, the City of London, and the London Children’s Museum. All are welcome to join in this vibrant celebration
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BLACK HISTORY SLAM 2025
Date: February 13, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Venue: Museum London
Details: The Black History Slam returns for its second annual event, celebrating Black History Month under the theme “Roots and Rhythm: Celebrating Black Legacy in London.” Attendees will experience spoken word performances by four talented poets, including headliner Eddie Lartey, and soulful musical renditions by artist Tiffany Chantelle. The evening also features an engaging panel discussion with local creatives. Between performances, guests are invited to tour “Ukutula: Our Timeless Journeys,” an expansive group exhibition celebrating African dance and music, showcasing the work of five contemporary artists from the African and Asian diasporas. This event is free and open to all, but space is limited, so registration is required.
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Essence & Culture Awards 2025
Date: February 17, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM
Venue: Wolf Performance Hall – London, Public Library
Details: A prestigious awards ceremony recognizing Black excellence in business, arts, education, and community service. The event includes a formal dinner, live entertainment, and keynote speakers.
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Lewis Coray Trailblazer Award
Date: February 19, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Venue: RBC Place, 300 York St, London
Details: The Lewis Coray Trailblazer Award is an initiative by the London Police Service to honor outstanding youth from African, Caribbean, and Black communities. This award recognizes young individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to positive change. By celebrating these trailblazers, the program aims to inspire other young people to engage actively in their communities and pursue leadership roles. The award ceremony is a highlight of the London Police Service’s diversity events, reflecting their dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion. For more information about the award and the nomination process, please visit the London Police Service’s official website
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Black History Month 2025 Closing Ceremony
Date: February 22, 2025
Time: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Venue: Wolf Performance Hall, London, Public Library
Details: The Black History Month 2025 Closing Ceremony is a significant event honoring the achievements and contributions of the Black community in London, Ontario. The ceremony will feature the Black Community Achievement Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that have made impactful contributions to the community. Attendees can expect a program that includes inspiring speeches, cultural performances, and opportunities to reflect on the month’s celebrations. This event serves as a culmination of Black History Month activities, celebrating the rich heritage and ongoing contributions of Black Canadians. Admission is free, but registration is required. For more details and to register, please visit the event page.
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Black Heritage: Our Past, Our Present, Our Future
Date: February 26, 2025
Time: 5 PM
Venue: Great Hall at Huron University
Details: The Canadian Club of London, in partnership with the London Black Heritage Council, is hosting a special panel discussion on February 26, 2025, to explore Black history and heritage. This event will feature insights from Charles Innis, a community developer, Christina Lord, an educator, and Tarik Kifle, a graduation coach. The discussion will highlight the importance of preserving and celebrating Black history while addressing contemporary challenges and achievements. It aims to foster meaningful dialogue and awareness about Black heritage in London, Ontario. This event is part of the club’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and education through community engagement.
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The Ebony Ball
Date: February 28, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Details: A glamorous evening celebrating Black culture, fashion, and music. The event includes live performances, a dance floor, and a celebration of Black excellence and heritage.
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London Symphonia’s “Life and Troubled Times of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor” Concert
Date: February 23, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM
Venue: Metropolitan United Church
Details: London Symphonia will present “The Life and Troubled Times of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor” at Metropolitan United Church in London, Ontario. This concert, narrated by poet and actor Roy Lewis, will explore the remarkable story of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, a mixed-race composer celebrated as a musical genius at the turn of the 20th century. The program includes Coleridge-Taylor’s Nonet and “Deep River” from his 24 Negro Melodies, as well as works by Kris Bowers, Florence Price, Antonín Dvořák, and Franz Schubert. Tickets are available for purchase, and for those unable to attend in person, a Video On Demand option is offered. For more details and to secure tickets, please visit the event page.
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THE LONDON Black Health + Wellness FAIR
Date: March 29, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Venue: North London Optimist Centre (1345 Cheapside St., London)
Details: The London Black Health + Wellness Fair is a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to improving the health and well-being of Black individuals and communities. This event will bring together key partners from healthcare organizations, community groups, and local agencies to address health disparities through culturally sensitive healthcare programs and community support. Attendees will have access to expert-led discussions on critical health topics, connect with vendors offering health-related services, and participate in activities for all ages. A special focus will be given to Black seniors and children’s mental health, with proceeds supporting the development of the Children’s Black Mental Health Hub through the W.E.A.N. Community Centre. This fair is a vital step toward building a healthier and more empowered Black community in London.
We encourage our community to participate in these important events, learn from inspiring speakers, and celebrate Black history, culture, and achievements throughout February and beyond.