Black History Month
The City of Richmond celebrates and honours Black History Month in February with various events and activities that pay tribute to the legacy and rich cultural heritage of the Black community in Canada. In celebration of Black History Month, Richmond residents and visitors will have the opportunity to engage in discussions, immersive exhibits and vibrant performances that highlight the significant achievements and resilience of Black individuals throughout history.
The City of Richmond, through the development of the Cultural Harmony Plan, is committed to strengthening intercultural connection, fostering a sense of unity and understanding and acknowledging the invaluable impact of Black Canadians on our society. This month-long celebration promotes inclusivity, diversity, and appreciation for the diverse narratives that shape our collective history and the rich cultural heritage of our community.
Richmond Cultural Centre
Tarcila Neves: Roots of Resilience Collection
Jan 31-Feb 28
Opening Reception: Sat, Feb 1, 1:00-3:00pm
Upper Rotunda Gallery, Richmond Cultural Centre, 7700 Minoru Gate
Mon-Fri, 9:00am-9:00pm; Sat & Sun, 10:00am-5:00pm
Artist Tarcila Neves’ exhibition, Roots of Resilience Collection, takes viewers on an immersive journey through the intertwined histories of heritage, identity and transformation. Using a blend of traditional artistry and augmented reality (AR), this exhibition bridges the past, present and future of African and diasporic experiences. Each artwork unearths narratives of exploitation, resistance and renewal, highlighting the strength of communities amidst challenges such as resource extraction, colonial legacies and systemic inequalities. Through vibrant visuals and interactive storytelling, the collection invites audiences to reflect on the resilience and cultural significance that define the African diaspora.
This program is presented in partnership by the City of Richmond and Richmond Black History Month.
Family Day at Richmond Children's Arts Festival
Mon, Feb 17, 10:30am-4:30pm
Join artists Tarcila Neves and Nickie Lewis at the Creature and Nature: A Collaborative Sculpture Project Imagination Station to decorate a leaf and add your personal artistic message about nature, the environment and sustainability to a Richmond-inspired animal sculpture made from natural materials. The sculpture will feature an augmented reality experience that combines art, technology and social change to create an engaging and interactive experience.
More information: Children's Arts Festival
Richmond Public Library
Family Trivia Challenge
Feb 1-28
Test your knowledge of important Black Canadians and historical events by participating in this challenge. There will be trivia questions posted throughout the month at each library location.
Answer the question correctly to enter the prize draw. Book prizes will be given away at the end of the month. Contest is open to all ages and runs all month.
Info: Family Trivia Challenge
Canada Post Stamp Showcase
Sun, Feb 9, 11:00am – Noon
Canada Post unveils a new stamp each year to celebrate and honour Black History Month. The 2025 stamp features a surprise historical Canadian figure, to be revealed the day of the event. Join Jackie Bailey and Maurice Earle from Canada Post to discover more about this key figure, see a selection of stamps from the Black History Month stamp collection and learn more about how the stamps are selected.
Drop-in
Info: Canada Post Stamp Showcase
Music with Checo Tohomaso
Sun, Feb 9, 1:00–2:00pm
Come celebrate Black History Month with acclaimed musician Checo Tohomaso. Learn a little about soul music, have a lot of fun and join Checo Tohomaso in "Keepin' Sweet Soul Alive!"
Drop-in
Info: Music with Checo Tohomaso
Author Talk with Ruby Díaz: Searching for Serafim
Sun, Feb 9, 2:00–3:00pm
Join this author talk, reading and Q and A with this amazing writer. Searching for Serafim, published this year by Arsenal Pulp Press, is a fascinating and personal exploration of one of Vancouver's most notable historical figures. Copies of her book will be available for sale at the event. Registration required.
Info: Author Talk with Ruby Diaz
Richmond Art Gallery
Artist Salon: Tarcila Neves on Digital Tools for Accessibility
Wed, Feb 26, 7:00-8:30pm
Tarcila Neves’ work focuses on blending traditional ad digital art, ensuring accessibility through the use of augmented reality, animation and audio descriptions. Learn about her art practice and how artists can utilize digital tools in their own artworks or promotional materials for increased accessibility and visibility. Free event hosted in person and online.
Details and to register: https://www.richmondartgallery.org/artist-salon-neves