"Blacks should always feel proud to display their cultural identity."
Topics
Featured
Share online
February is Black History Month in Canada. This year's theme, Black Legacy and Leadership, invites us to both celebrate Canada's rich history while also looking toward the future and the generations yet to come.
One of the ways we’re celebrating is by highlighting Black leaders and changemakers from across our RRU community. Meet Karl Okyerefo, an alum of our Master of Arts in Intercultural and International Communication program who reflects on the importance of this month and what it means to him.
Karl Okyerefo: Alum, Master of Arts in Intercultural and International Communication
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black history month is a time of reflection, a time to look back on the sacrifices, contributions and impact Blacks have had over time.
How do you connect with and celebrate your Black heritage?
I think a way of connecting is more of a feeling of pride, motivation and acknowledgment that Blacks have indeed and still are making impacts in our society. It is always awesome to celebrate other cultural identities. Our rich culture (clothing and language) and beliefs fascinate me.
In celebration of BHM, University of Arkansas student Jalisa Brown said students should be “black out loud.” What does “black out loud” mean to you, and how do you think students can embrace and express that in their daily lives?
My understanding of being “black out loud” is that all cultures are important and none are superior to another. As such, Blacks should always feel proud to openly and freely express themselves and display their cultural identity.
Black history and Black allyship should be something celebrated year-round. What can Canadians ensure that Black history and allyship remain a meaningful part of conversations and actions throughout the year, not just during Black History Month?
Canada is known to be culturally diverse and Canadians are known to embrace other cultures. Canadians should continue to celebrate Blacks for their hard work, effort and contributions to society.
It has been said that “Black joy is an act of resistance.” What does Black joy mean to you and how do you centre joy in your life?
Centering joy in life can be all about finding those little moments that make you smile, like sharing music or connecting with friends. Blacks in various field of excellence should be celebrated.
Which Black historical figures (or contemporary figures) inspire you?
Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, who led the country toward independence, knew that given the chance, Africans can manage their own affairs. That inspires me a lot.
Read more reflections from members of our Royal Roads Community
- Rodney Kwaku Boateng-Sarpong: Student, Master of Arts in Environment and Management
- Giovanni Malcolm: Associate Faculty, School of Leadership/ Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Chinonso Sylvia Uzoaru: Student, Master of Global Management
For more videos, events, resources and more, visit our Black History Month webpage.