Calgary, AB – Every February, we reflect on the history, achievements and contributions of Black Canadians and Albertans. From John Ware blazing a trail across the prairies, to Virnetta Anderson’s history making run as a Calgary city councillor and her role in developing the city’s C-Train system, Albertans certainly have much to celebrate.
Heritage Park is proud to celebrate the role of the Black community in western Canada. In a two-part Stories From The Park podcast, historian Cheryl Foggo talks about the hard work and determination but also the sense of community that was needed for Black people to make their mark on western Canada. It’s available wherever you get your podcasts!
“The stories of people like John Ware and Anni Saunders in the late 1800s are ones of resilience and the independent spirit and determination to create a better lives for themselves and their families,” say Kesia Kvill, chief curator at Heritage Park and co-host of Stories From The Park. “We encourage people to take this month to learn more about these people and places that have had such a profound impact on the history of western Canada and Alberta specifically.”
Along with a focus on expanded Black history storytelling during the month of February, Heritage Park is proud to partner in hosting the Annual Black History Month Dinner on February 10. The fundraising dinner supports the Calgary Black Chambers Scholarship fund, elevating Black students through scholarships, recognition and financial support. Tickets are now on sale through Showpass.
The shops of the Haskayne Mercantile Block will also have a focus on Black artisans and makers, as well as books featuring Black history during the month. The shops are open seven days a week. For hours of operation, visit heritagepark.ca.
For all programming related to Black History Month at Heritage Park, visit www.heritagepark.ca/blackhistorymonth.
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For Media inquiries:
Dominic Terry
Strategic Communications Manager
dterry@heritagepark.ca
Office: 403.268.8506 Cell:403.519.3409
About Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park Historical Village is a registered charity and Canada’s largest living history museum. We are located on Treaty 7 territory, respecting the history, languages, traditions and cultures of the nations on whose traditional land we reside. Their contributions to Heritage Park are essential to our success in educating our visitors and sharing the rich heritage of this land. Heritage Park’s mission is to ensure compelling stories from our diverse history are preserved and made memorable for future generations. More than 600-thousand guests are welcomed to the park every year, taking a step back in time and reflecting on how we have become who we are today. Your community support allows Heritage Park to preserve and present Western Canadian heritage and culture.