Celebrate Black History Month at KFPL with programs for all ages

To celebrate Black History Month, the Kingston Frontenac Public Library (KFPL) is offering events and resources for people of all ages. From celebrating Black joy to learning about the legacy of the Black Lives Matter movement, the library said it was inspired by, and is partnering with, Black creators to offer valuable education, discussion, and creative opportunities.

The library provided the following details for their February programming:

Programming begins with Make Art: Just Like Vanessa!, an event for kids ages five and up. Taking inspiration from the joyful, vibrant art of Black illustrator Vanessa Brantley-Newton participants will make an image of themselves using crayons, pastels, and paper collage. Registration is required for the event, happening on Saturday, Feb. 4 at the Calvin Park Branch. Space is limited. Register at https://calendar.kfpl.ca/event/7394443.

Creativity continues with Graffiti Art – Design Your Own Tag! Kids ages five and up will join award-winning Ottawa muralist Jimmy Baptiste as he guides families to create graffiti pieces. This virtual event, happening February 16, is sponsored by The Friends of the Kingston Frontenac Public Library. Registration opens Saturday, Feb. 4 at https://calendar.kfpl.ca/event/7889258.

On February 23, people ages 13 and up are invited to drop into the Calvin Park Branch from 6-8 p.m. for a screening of Whose Streets? Sabaah Folayan and Damon Davis’s documentary covers the 2014 Ferguson, Missouri uprising after Michael Brown’s death. The fallout from his killing is explored through several people’s perspectives as they navigate institutional and racial barriers in the journey for justice.

Throughout the month, KFPL branches will showcase collections featuring books, films, and music featuring Black voices, with online collections offering the same. Check the event calendar at calendar.kfpl.ca for more opportunities to celebrate.

“During Black History Month, we celebrate the joy and accomplishments of the Black community while acknowledging the ongoing struggle against racism and discrimination,” said Kimberly Sutherland Mills, Director, Service Design and Delivery. “KFPL’s programming and collections remind us that while we honour the past, we must also actively work towards a future where Black voices are not just heard, but valued and uplifted.”