Thank You to all who supported this very special year for Kuumba, Toronto’s longest running Black History Month celebration. The response was overwhelming, and the coverage and engagement was proof that there is still a need for this month. It’s an important time for us to challenge our commitment to widening the awareness of the contributions from not just our black communities but all BIPOC communities.

While we acknowledge that this work must live beyond February, we also recognize the influence and relevance of having a dedicated and socialized ritual to celebrate these achievements. Reassessing our understanding of past and current social and political climates, education and tools of empowerment for our youth and the mainstream positioning of our Black communities. A special Thank You to all the artists, collaborators, and participants of Kuumba25, your energy and brave storytelling left us with something to remember for years to come.

— Ashley McKenzie-Barnes, Curator, Kuumba25