London, ON - February is Black History Month and the Western Mustangs will be honouring and celebrating the legacy of Black Canadians and their communities. 

The origin of Black History Month dates back to 1926 when Carter G. Woodson, known as the "father of Black history", encouraged people of all backgrounds to discuss the Black experience. Woodson chose February because it coincided with the birth dates of social reformer Frederick Douglass, and former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln who played a significant role in ending slavery. In December 1995, the Canadian House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month. By the late 1960s, thanks to the civil rights movement and a growing awareness of Black identity, Black History Week was celebrated by mayors in cities across North America. Eventually, the week-long observance evolved into Black History Month. 

Throughout this month, Sports & Recreation will be talking to our dedicated Black Mustangs student athletes, hearing their perspectives on what Black History Month (BHM) means to them, and the importance of BHM to our community. These student athlete interviews will be posted on the Mustangs TikTok throughout the month: https://www.tiktok.com/@westernmustangs

As well, Sports & Recreation and the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Western are collaborating to bring important Black voices who work to inspire incredible change in their community.

We are pleased to be hosting Anthony Lue on Tuesday, February 28, at 11am.

Anthony Lue is an inspiring Black Paralympian who has been resilient through overcoming obstacles, breaking down barriers and giving back to his community. Paving the way for future generations has become a driving force as he works with organizations that understand the growing need to making our communities barrier-free. Anthony's determination to support the growing need for accessibility among organized sport and public access has led him to become RHFAC Certified (Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification) and the Principal at his own consultancy company.

Anthony is proud to be a member of the UHN Patient Partner Committee and the Black Legacy Committee. This event will be free admission for the Western community. For more information or to register, visit: http://www.events.westernu.ca/events/edi/2023-02/paving-the-way.html

We will also be doing a story this month on the Legacy Award from hosting the 2022 Vanier Cup. This award is being established to support student athletes who are Black, Indigenous and/or from racialized communities.

For all events and programming happening at Western throughout Black History Month, visit: Black History Month - Black History - Western University (uwo.ca).

Image Courtesy of Western Communications