During Black History Month, we celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians here at home and around the world. To learn more about these achievements, we are offering programs, books, stories, and library collections that celebrate Black heritage.

Programs and collections we are featuring this month include:

• OnScreen at the JET presents NFB in the Library: Sounds and Pressure Reggae in a Foreign Land
  February 7 from 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., at the John Elliott Theatre.
  In the golden age of reggae, some of Jamaica’s brightest stars lit up an unexpected stage: Toronto. Despite facing racism, limited resources, and a resistant industry, they transformed the city into a reggae hotspot with their love-filled, revolutionary beats. Their legacy still echoes worldwide, from Bathurst Street to Eglinton Avenue. Get your tickets now at the John Elliott Theatre Box Office! Visit our online calendar to learn more.

• Halton Hills Lecture Series: Paul Dias, a Man of Colours
  February 11 from 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., at the John Elliott Theatre
  Inspired by Van Gogh’s essence and Tom Thomson’s vibrant, non-photographic landscapes, Paul captures life’s spirit through his art. This exhibition reflects his journey, rooted in the essentials of growth: roots + water + sunshine. These elements have shaped both his art and personal growth. After the lecture in the John Elliott Theatre, join Paul for a tour of his exhibit, on display from February 3 to March 2 in the upper Sisnett Lobby of the Cultural Centre. Tickets are available at the John Elliott Theatre Box Office! Visit our online calendar to learn more.

• African Voyages with Njacko Backo
  February 22 from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the Georgetown Branch
  Drop by to join Juno nominated musician Njacko Backo! In this interactive performance, learn about the important role that music, dance, and storytelling play in everyday life in Cameroon, Central Africa. Experience traditional dance and drumming and listen to a traditional story. Visit our online calendar to learn more.

• Short Story Dispenser. Enjoy a variety of short stories by Black authors from the Short Story Dispenser at the Acton Branch and online through our short story portal. Read these portable and convenient stories in the library or take them with you to read on-the-go, anytime and anywhere! Visit our website at www.hhpl.ca/computers to learn more about the Short Story Dispenser.

• Featured in branch displays can be found at the Acton and Georgetown branches.

Special Recognition

• Explore our online exhibit about local hero Henry Thomas Shepherd: https://vitacollections.ca/HaltonHillsImages/558/exhibit
• Engage with this lecture on HHPL’s YouTube channel: Tracing Black Lives in Guelph, 1890 - 1945: https://youtube.com/watch?v=KS-DSb-AJMg&si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE
• Engage with this lecture on HHPL’s YouTube channel: Enslavement in Early Ontario, 1760 - 1834: https://youtube.com/watch?v=mT52APKB5Mo&si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE
• Enjoy this One Book, One Halton Hills author visit on HHPL’s YouTube channel: An Evening with Jael Richardson: https://youtube.com/watch?v=TdDPsb9FjwY&si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE

For more information about programs and events happening at the library, please visit our online calendar.

To explore HHPL’s resources or to borrow and read books about culture, race, Black lives and anti-racism, please visit the Library catalogue. For book suggestions, please fill out the My Next Read form on our website.

To see what is happening across Halton Hills, please visit the Town of Halton Hills webpage.