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On Our Radar: African traditions to mark Black History Month in Coquitlam

Coquitlam Heritage is hosting a free Family Day event on Burke Mountain with live music, dance crafts and treats.
BlackHistoryMonth - Getty Images
Black History Month.

Coquitlam Heritage is inviting the public to celebrate Family Day by learning a new culture.

As the annual statutory holiday occurs during Black History Month, the local museum society is hosting an all-ages celebration of African tradition and dynamic that long weekend on Burke Mountain. 

It's the fourth annual recognition of its kind by Coquitlam Heritage, set to "uplift Black histories and culture" in the community.

According to Canada's latest census, a total of 2,400 people that identified as immigrants move to Coquitlam from Africa between 2016 to 2021 — many of which have contributed to the city's societal and social growth.

This includes (in alphabetical order):

  • Democratic Republic of Congo = 30
  • Egypt = 265
  • Eritrea = 50
  • Ethiopia = 55
  • Morocco = 30
  • Nigeria = 135
  • Somalia = 25
  • South Africa = 600
  • Other birthplaces in Africa = 1,200

Coquitlam Heritage's event page explains Black History Month Family Day is set to include dancing, food, and arts and crafts.

The organization added there'll be several live bands showcasing several African music traditions and styles.

As well, kids in attendance will also be treated to face painting, balloon animals and photos with a princess. 

Coquitlam Heritage said the Black History Month event is free to attend.

It's scheduled to to take place on Feb. 18 from 12 to 3 p.m. at Victoria Community Hall (3435 Victoria Dr.).

For more information, you can visit Coquitlam Heritage's website.

On Our Radar is a thing we do when we're looking forward to an event that we think the public should be aware of. Think you have something for it? Email us at [email protected].