"It’s about being visible in your Blackness and making space"

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 Rodney Kwaku Boateng-Sarpong, a student in our Master of Arts in Environment and Management program. He speaks about embracing the call to be unapologetically Black, celebrating Black identities and authentic connection.

Rodney Kwaku Boateng-Sarpong: Student, Master of Arts in Environment and Management

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month is an essential time to honour and recognize the countless contributions of Black people to society, both historically and present. It’s a chance to reflect on the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of Black communities worldwide. For me, it’s a time to reaffirm the importance of celebrating our culture and history.

How do you connect with and celebrate your Black heritage?

I find deep connection in my heritage through storytelling, music and art. These are the forms of expression that have allowed generations of Black people to preserve culture, navigate hardships, and maintain hope. I celebrate through listening to music from Black artists be it afrobeats, amapiano or native music from Ghana. I think it’s vital to keep these traditions alive, whether through community events, personal reflection, or continued learning.

What makes you proud to be Black?

Whenever I’m faced with this question, I shout black is just beautiful! And black is actually my favourite colour. But honestly, there is so much to be proud of when it comes to being Black — our resilience, creativity, and the way we’ve influenced every facet of society – from art to politics. It’s the strength we’ve shown in the face of adversity, the way we’ve carved out spaces for ourselves despite attempts to erase or undermine us. But it’s also the everyday moments of joy and community that make being Black something to celebrate.

What does being “black out loud” mean to you, and how do you think students can embrace and express that in their daily lives? 

“Black out loud” is a powerful call to be unapologetically Black, to celebrate our identity and culture in ways that feel authentic. It means expressing pride in your Blackness openly, without fear of judgment. For students, this could look like speaking out about issues that impact Black communities, amplifying Black voices, or simply taking pride in Black culture in everyday actions whether it’s through the way we dress, the music we listen to, or the way they support Black-led initiatives. It’s about being visible in your Blackness and making space for others to do the same.

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?

To keep Black history and allyship active throughout the year, it’s important for Canadians (and everyone) to keep learning about Black history, to support Black-led organizations, and to make intentional efforts to address systemic issues like anti-Black racism. That means having difficult conversations in the workplace, schools, and communities. It’s also about providing a platform for Black voices and investing in initiatives that uplift Black people — not just during February, but year-round.

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?

For me, Black joy is about living fully and authentically despite the systems that have historically tried to suppress Blackness. It’s a way of saying, “Despite everything, I’m here, and I am thriving.” It’s about finding joy in everyday moments, whether it’s dancing, laughing with friends, or creating art. I center joy in my life by prioritizing self-care, celebrating achievements big and small, and recognizing the power of joy as a tool for healing.

Which Black historical figures (or contemporary figures) inspire you? Or where do you find inspiration?

There are so many Black historical and contemporary figures who inspire me. They include the likes of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Kwame Nkrumah, Kofi Annan and Nelson Mandela.

Do these figures have a personal significance to you, or are there particular aspects of their legacies that resonate most?

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. exemplified the power of peaceful protest and the unwavering belief in equality and justice. Kwame Nkrumah’s leadership in leading my country Ghana to independence, his Pan-African movement and his vision for a united, independent Africa continues to resonate. Nelson Mandela’s strength and resilience in the fight against apartheid and his ability to forgive and rebuild a nation is a model for all who believe in reconciliation. Kofi Annan, with his leadership at the United Nations, demonstrated the importance of diplomacy and human rights on the world stage. These men, along with many others, shaped the course of history and continue to inspire me with their commitment to justice and human dignity.

Do you have any additional reflections on Black History Month?

I think one of the most important things about Black History Month is its role in fostering a broader, more inclusive understanding of history. While Black history should be celebrated every day, this month gives us a moment to highlight those stories that have been silenced or ignored. My hope is that more people not only learn about the past but also contribute to creating a future where Black communities are fully recognized, supported and uplifted.

Read more reflections from members of our Royal Roads Community

• Giovanni Malcolm: Associate Faculty, School of Leadership/ Tourism and Hospitality Management
• Karl Okyerefo: Alum, Master of Arts in Intercultural and International Communication
• Chinonso Sylvia Uzoaru: Student, Master of Global Management

For more videos, events, resources and more, visit our Black History Month webpage.