February is Black History Month, a time to share and celebrate the stories and achievements of black people throughout history .
It's more than 80 years since the first special history week was initiated by black American scholar Carter G. Woodson, and in 1955 the Canadian government proclaimed the event to recognize contributions of black people and bring awareness of ongoing issues of racism and discrimination.
Noted black Canadians include first B.C. governor James Douglas (1858), sprinter Sammy Richardson who won silver at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, and runner Harry Jerome, who took the bronze medal in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and gold medals at the 1966 Commonwealth and 1967 Pan Am games in the 100 metres.
Closer to home, John Robert Giscome is the first recorded black person to spend time (1862-63) in the Fort George area, and is the namesake for the community of Giscome.
Among Prince George's relatively recent newcomers is Dr. William Osei, Northern Health medical health officer, who is the guest speaker at the Black History Month main event Feb. 27 at College of New Caledonia. Dinner is at 6 p.m. followed by Osei at 7:45 p.m., a fashion show at 8:45 p.m. and dancing to the Tropitonics steel band from Vancouver at 9:30 p.m. Tickets, available at Books & Co., Africa Cafe, and book stores at CNC and UNBC are $15 for adults and $7.50 for children six to 12 years.
**Cooking classes during 12th anniversary celebrations will beheld at the Africa Cafe, 1645 15th Ave. Classes at 7 p.m. will feature West African cuisine Feb. 8; Caribbean food Feb. 15 and Ethiopian dishes Feb. 22. Tickets are $10.
**An Evening of Song will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 20 at First Baptist Church, Fifth Avenue & Gillette St. Admission is by donation. Featured musicians are Prince George Freedom Singers, Darlene Shatford & Co., Granville Johnson and Ssnap, Umoja, Ben Brown and SATS Band, Heather Fisher and Underground Railroad, and Cliff Raphael.
