More than 100 Black youth and allies celebrated Black excellence at a kick-off event in October designed to create opportunities to come together beyond Black History Month and Black Excellence Day.
Co-organized by the Burnaby School District and the New Westminster School District, the morning field-trip event also included students from Coquitlam and Vancouver. They gathered at a movie theatre in New West to view the documentary Handle with Care: The Legend of the Notic Streetball Crew. It looks back on the journey of local street basketball legends The Notic, an exceptional group of racially diverse teens from the suburbs of Vancouver.
The film’s use of archival VHS footage showcased the players’ impressive moves, while revealing their struggles. It explored issues of race, trauma and rejection as well as friendship, love, joy and hope. The Grade 10 to 12 students in attendance also had a chance to hear directly from members of The Notic. Rory Grace and John Mubanda attended the event and participated in a question and answer session. Students were also treated to a video address from Joey Haywood – known as The King Handles – who invited those present to participate in a complementary basketball camp.
Ninandotoo Society sponsored the gathering, and their President Kamika Williams provided the welcoming address. Opening remarks were shared by Candace Knoll, President of the Jr. Black Achievement Awards.
Scroll down to read more about celebrating culture and diversity in Burnaby Schools.
Read about awareness-building efforts, opportunities to celebrate culture and diversity, as well as anti-racism work happening in Burnaby Schools:
Learning Through Indigenous Teachings and Honouring Culture – Multiple Stories
Next Steps Coming: Action on Racism – September 2022
Anti-Racism Lead Nominated for Premier’s Award for Work in District – September 2022
Raising Diverse Student Voices and Opportunities – May 2022
Honouring Community Traditions and Practices – May 2022
Honouring and Learning About Black History – February 2022
District Hosting Black Excellence Day for Thousands – January 2022
Asian Heritage Month: Honouring, Celebrating and Taking Action – May 2021
Black History Month: Celebrating & Learning – February 2021
Supporting Black Shirt Day – January 2021
Continuing Our Journey: Supporting Anti-Racism – October 2020
Action on Racism: ƽÌØһФͼ – June 2020
Celebrating Black History Month in Burnaby Schools – February 2019
Posted October 2022