When you think of February, what do you think about? Is it the frigid temperatures and annoying slush, or is the promise of romance with Valentine’s Day right around the corner? In Canada, this month means celebrating two unique and special cultures. February marks the African (Black History) and Chinese Heritage Month.
Historically, these groups have contributed to Canada in a myriad of ways and had to survive many hardships, such as racism and discrimination. However, their cultures today are still thriving, with their contributions impacting our daily lives. From sports to music, our Canadian culture has been greatly influenced by both African and Chinese heritage.
African Canadians have contributed to the development of Canada dating back to the earliest European Settlements. From the Underground Railroad to modern-day immigration, Black Canadians have played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural landscape of Canada.
Similarly, Chinese Canadians have played vital roles in the development of infrastructure through contributions dating back to Canada’s Canadian Pacific Railway. These endeavours have worked toward culminating the rich history and cultural heritage of Chinese Canadians, which in turn have influenced various social aspects of Canada.
At Mackenzie, we proudly celebrate Chinese and African (Black History) Month. Throughout February, our school community is working together to plan several events and activities.
What’s Happening at WLMAC?
-> Black History Month Assembly on Feb 13th
-> Black Student Alliance Symposium Feb 27th
-> BSA Meetings
-> RoShamBo - A School-wide game of Rock-Paper-Scissors, a game originating from China
-> Assorted Equity Activities

December 6th marks the observance of the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This occasion unites communities throughout Canada to commemorate the tragic event of December 6, 1989. On this day, we remember the 14 women who lost their lives, and the other 14 injured, in a violent act of misogyny and hatred at the engineering school of Montreal's École Polytechnique.
The horrific events of the Montreal Massacre forced Canada to address the issue of gender-based violence. In the perpetrator’s suicide note, he attributed the downhill spiral of his life to feminists and outlined a list of 19 notable Quebec feminists to be targeted, showing that this event stemmed from a larger social issue—violence against women.
December 6 is part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global initiative aiming to put an end to gender-based violence. The campaign starts on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and continues until December 10.
As a school community, we must take a stand against all forms of gender-based violence. This occasion not only serves as a reminder but as a call to action that prompts us all to reflect and continue to push for change and improvements. This issue shouldn’t be a polarizing one, but an opportunity for us all to move forward together and join the collective fight against gender-based violence.
Bearing all this in mind, make sure to wear your white and don your white ribbons on Wednesday, December 6th to show your support and support the cause.
How to show your support:
-> Wear a white ribbon. You can make one or get one from SAC from your first-period teacher!
-> Check out local vigils and other commemorative programming in your community
-> Take some time to educate yourself on the causes and impacts of gender-based violence
-> Learn more about the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV campaign and how to get involved
-> Check out the White Ribbon Campaign website for more information
-> Spread the word and encourage your friends and family to take part in the movement
-> If you ever feel like you need any support, there is help available!
-> Government of Canada Support Resources

“Gender equality is critical to the development and peace of every nation.” - Qingrong Ma