(From the City of Vancouver) ) Each February, we are proud to recognize Black History Month by official proclamation.
Black History Month provides us with the opportunity to celebrate and learn about the many achievements, investments, and contributions of Vancouver’s Black and African diasporic communities, even while these communities have endured historical and continuing inequality, oppression, and erasure.
The City of Vancouver recognizes that it has played a role in perpetuating discrimination against Black and African diaspora communities and is committed to addressing anti-Black racism in all its forms. We must make a consistent effort to acknowledge, empower, and value the perspectives and experiences of all individuals in the Black community every day.
WAVE 98.3 realizes the debt we owe to Vancouver's own Black history. Through the 1940s, 50s and 60s (before land and homes were appropriated to build the Georga viaducts) Hogan's Alley on the downtown eastside became the home away from home for artists like Louis Armstrong, Sammy Davis Jr., Count Basie and Nat King Cole. It was a thriving community for fellowship and culture.
Here are some resources to expand your knowledge.
BC Black History Awareness Society