Medicine Hat College students celebrating “Black Resistance” theme

Influential black artists, directors and thinkers are being posted on social media and through informational boards around campus.

Specially selected films and free provincial seminars will also be promoted.

In addition, a book display and reading list will be available to the public at the Vera Bracken Library, and a reading list at the Medicine Hat Public Library.

Kannan Stickel, the Vice President Community of the students association, says he’s especially excited for students to learn about Viola Desmond, an activist and businesswoman, who played a role in the civil rights movement in Canada, eventually making her way onto the Canadian $10 bill.

Stickel says that as a whole, the information and resources are meant to facilitate more understanding.

“We hear a lot about the American stories – the American struggles. But a lot of people don’t realize that there were a lot of famous Black Americans who went through a lot of the similar things, and it’s important that we recognize that, that struggle wasn’t just American, and it wasn’t just Canadian – it was truly worldwide,” said Stickel.

“We’re showcasing things like these boards with just stories and experiences and the trials and tribulations of famous, historical Black Canadians to hopefully better educate students and the public.”

“Students should learn about this. It’s not that the appetite isn’t there, but sometimes it’s a little hard to find,” said Stickel.

So far, the student association is excited to see students taking notes and engaging with the content.

by Angela Kazmierczak

Medicine Hat College students celebrating “Black Resistance” theme

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