Episode 26: More Than A Month

Black History Month. If we are honest, this month only exists because Black history has been all but untold in Canada. In this compelling episode of Canadian Salad, Andrea and Hostion are joined by two remarkable women, Cleia and Asiyah, to dive deep into their personal experiences as Black women in Canada. Cleia, with Jamaican roots, shares her journey from Montreal to Victoria and gives insight into the embodiment of Black identity and belonging. Asiyah, an Afro-Caribbean Muslim woman from the Bahamas, brings a unique perspective on the multitude of intersectionalities she navigates as an immigrant here. 

Both guests reflect on the superficiality of Black History Month and how it often serves as more of a reminder to others rather than a true celebration of Black culture and contributions meant for each and every day. They discuss the challenges of finding a sense of community, navigating internalized racism, and the importance of embracing one's identity. The episode also emphasizes the need for genuine investment in Black communities beyond just symbolic gestures and underscores the significance of space for Black voices. We wouldn't need Black history month if we but celebrated Black culture and amplified African and Caribbean descendant leaders, their impact and legacy each and every day. If our history books told the truth, if our leaders stopped silencing Black voices, and if our own racism and bias would be checked, then this month would be the year round celebration that it deserves.

One thing remains clear: Black History Month is a starting point, not an end. It should catalyze ongoing conversations, inspire change, and enable a deeper understanding of the vast, joyful, and sometimes challenging tapestry of Afro-Caribbean and Black histories and identities.

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Theme music by Nver Avetyan from Pixabay.
A Janklin Production.