News and Announcements

EDMONTON – The Legislative Assembly of Alberta will hold a celebration recognizing Black History Month on Thursday, February 6, at 12:15 p.m.

“The Caribbean and African communities have been essential to the founding of Alberta. Their contributions have been and will always be valuable to our province, and I sincerely hope that Black History Month continues to provide a platform for awareness, growth and inclusion.”

- Honourable Nathan Cooper, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta

“Black History Month is a time to celebrate the amazing contributions of the Black community to Alberta’s history. The African and Caribbean communities bring cultural traditions, entrepreneurial drive and artistic creativity to our province’s identity. From local businesses to the arts their influence continues to enrich our province and strengthen the connections that make our communities so special.”

- Mr. Brandon Lunty, MLA for Leduc-Beaumont

“Albertans of African and Caribbean descent are an indelible part of our history and a key part of our future. I’m excited for another opportunity to join Deputy Speaker Pitt to celebrate their history, culture and all the ways they continue to shape and contribute to our province.”

- Mr. David Shepherd, MLA for Edmonton-City Centre

This event will be hosted by Deputy Speaker Angela Pitt on behalf of Speaker Nathan Cooper. It is open to the public and will include remarks by Her Honour the Honourable Salma Lakhani, AOE, BSc, LLD (Hon), Lieutenant Governor of Alberta; MLA Brandon Lunty on behalf of the Premier of Alberta; MLA David Shepherd on behalf of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition; and Funke Olokude, CEO of Hexagon Wellness Group and President of the Nigerian Canadian Association of Edmonton.

The celebration will include performances by

• Danielle George (leader of Trincan Steel Orchestra)
• Gary Martin (recently inducted as a Blues Legend into the Chicago Blues Hall of Fame)
• Medgine Mathurin (spoken word poet)
• Natalie Philbert (vocalist)

The event will also be live streamed on assembly.ab.ca and the Legislative Assembly’s X, Facebook and YouTube channels.

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Media inquiries:

Karleigh Stevenson
Communications Consultant, Legislative Assembly of Alberta
Mobile: 587.873.2985
E-mail: laocommunications@assembly.ab.ca