Durham College has taken a fresh approach to celebrating Black History Month this year. “We’ve pivoted a little bit from previous years … focusing on consultations with Black communities to better understand their experiences on campus,” said Tanya Morris, the organizer of Black History Month at Durham College. This shift reflects a commitment to listening to Black students and fostering a more inclusive environment.
The response has been positive, with more than 40 students engaging in events. “We’ve had more responses from students than staff,” Morris said, highlighting the student interest and participation. This feedback is helping the college identify both successes and areas for improvement in its efforts to foster belonging on campus.
For students like Kristen Pascoe, these events play a key role in strengthening inclusivity and awareness. “It’s important that people don’t just know about Black History Month but actually understand it. These events help make that happen,” she said.
A key goal of these events is long-term support for Black students. “We’re working closely with the United Black Student Alliance to develop initiatives that provide access, raise awareness, and offer support throughout the year,” Morris said. These ongoing efforts are crucial in creating an environment where Black students feel valued and heard, beyond just Black History Month.
The college has also embraced a shift toward dialogue-based events, creating opportunities for students to have open, intimate conversations about their experiences. “They’ve had really open conversations, a lot of really intimate conversations,” said Morris, emphasizing the importance of safe spaces where students can share their stories.
Durham College has a history of supporting student success, as seen in the achievements of graduates like Ajurenmisan Emiko, a Social Service Worker alumna. Through her studies, she developed the skills needed to make a real difference in the community, working in counselling, advocacy and mental health support. Her experience at Durham College reinforced the power of empathy and care, demonstrating how education can empower students to create meaningful change.
Through these initiatives, Durham College has not only celebrated Black History Month but also laid the groundwork for a more inclusive, supportive environment for Black students, with a lasting impact that extends well beyond February.