February is Black History Month, and in Greater Victoria, there’s no shortage of opportunities to learn about the history makers who shaped the future of Vancouver Island and BC.

All month long, there will be events and exhibits exploring the stories of pioneers, inventors, and businesses that left a lasting impact on our province but are often overlooked in history books. 

From the first Black pioneers who journeyed to the Island in 1858 to war heroes, politicians, and notable artists, there are more than a century’s worth of stories to uncover.

Hear from Black scholars and direct descendants of pioneering families, and immerse yourself in Black arts and culture throughout February. 

Check out the full list of events below.

1858: Black Routes, Black Roots | BC Maritime Museum | All month 

Follow the journey of the first group of Black immigrants to Vancouver Island as they sailed from San Francisco in 1858. Now through April.

Black Pioneers on the Saanich Peninsula | Sidney Museum | All Month

Learn about one of Sidney’s founding families and the rich Black history of the area at this month-long exhibit. 

Black History Month Launch | Open Space Arts Society | Feb. 1

Hear about the work of the BC Black History Awareness Society while enjoying music from Locrian Tones and food from Redpot Island Twist. 7-9pm.

RBCM Black History and Heritage Day | Royal BC Museum | Feb. 7

Meet and chat with direct descendants of BC’s Black history makers, from the first Black Island settlers to members of the only Black battalion in Canadian military history. Entrance is free, and exhibits will include images, artifacts, and archival documents. 1-4pm.

Appreciation Tea | Baumann Centre | Feb. 14 

Celebrate Black elders and mentors who uphold culture, share history, and help raise the next generation. Victoria music icon Louise Rose will perform. 2-4pm.

Ebony Roots Concert | Club KWENCH | Feb. 15

A concert journey that musically narrates the evolving emancipation of the Black community. Celebrate African Descent/Black music, from 300-year-old spirituals to Motown, and everything in between. 2-4pm.

Royal Roads Online Keynote Event | Virtual | Feb. 18 

Yabome Gilpin-Jackson, vice-president, People, Equity and Inclusion at Simon Fraser University, will speak about Black history in Canada in this free virtual keynote event. 11am.

Guided Black History Cemetery Tour | Ross Bay Cemetery | Feb. 22

Learn about the 50+ influential Black pioneers and their descendants buried in Victoria’s historic cemetery. Tickets can be purchased at the start of the tour. 2-4pm.

Black History Celebration at the Shady Creek Church | Central Saanich United Church | Feb. 1

Hear about the Black roots of the original Shady Creek Church, now known as Central Saanich United Church, which was founded by one of the Island’s first Black pioneers, Charles Alexander. 10:15am. 

BC Black History Awareness Society Keynote | Baumann Centre | Feb. 27

Join revered writer and UVic professor Wayde Compton in conversation with graduate student Junie Désil at this free public event, featuring a musical performance by Caleb Hart. 7-9pm.

String of Legacy: Black History Month Closing Night | Ambrosia Banquet | Feb. 28 

Experience a vibrant fusion of music, culture, storytelling, and fine dining in the heart of downtown Victoria. 6-11:30pm.

Additional events for UVic students can be found here.