Black Joy

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Each February, we participate in Black History Month events and engage in learning opportunities that honour the legacy of Black Canadians.


But this month is more than recognizing the accomplishments of the past; it’s also about recognizing the talents and brilliance of today and celebrating the promise and potential of tomorrow.


As you may have seen, throughout December and January, I asked the HWDSB community to join me on this platform and share what brings them joy.


This month, I invite members of the Black communities across HWDSB to share stories and experiences about what Black Joy means to you!


I also invite members of all HWDSB communities to share their ideas of Black achievement and excellence!


Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini

("Resilience" artwork created and gifted to Sheryl by her daughter)

Each February, we participate in Black History Month events and engage in learning opportunities that honour the legacy of Black Canadians.


But this month is more than recognizing the accomplishments of the past; it’s also about recognizing the talents and brilliance of today and celebrating the promise and potential of tomorrow.


As you may have seen, throughout December and January, I asked the HWDSB community to join me on this platform and share what brings them joy.


This month, I invite members of the Black communities across HWDSB to share stories and experiences about what Black Joy means to you!


I also invite members of all HWDSB communities to share their ideas of Black achievement and excellence!


Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini

("Resilience" artwork created and gifted to Sheryl by her daughter)

To our Black communities: Let's share some stories and experiences about what Black joy means to you. I'll go first.

For me, Black joy is central to Black wellness and supporting students to thrive. Since coming to HWDSB, I’ve seen firsthand the excellence of Black students, staff, and their families. For example, engaging with students during school visits, celebrating the students in the Graduation Coach program for Black Students, and meeting with the recipients of the ACCPI scholarship honouring African and Caribbean student excellence here in Hamilton. I look forward to attending the John C. Holland Awards on February 18 to share in the community’s celebration of achievement and excellence in Hamilton’s Black community.

Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini


Thank you for sharing your story with us.
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    Black Joy is Black Celebration!

    by Adnan, about 1 year ago

    I saw this Black Heritage Month bulletin board at one of our schools. I loved that the stories and individuals focused on joy, celebration, accomplishment and positivity. Students seeing Black Brilliance is Joy!

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    Ubuntu - Humanity

    by Adnan, about 1 year ago


    Black Joy is bringing together our communities and supporting the work of community groups throughout Hamilton.

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    Celebrate Black Authors

    by diana_floss, about 1 year ago

    The value of being seen and understood is immeasurable and it brings me joy. One way I feel seen and understood is when I read a good book.

    I experience Black joy when I read the works of these Black authors, to name a few; Lawrence Hill, Tessa McWatt, Desmond Cole, Jason Reynolds,Ta-Nehisi Coates, Elaine Welteroth, Anissa Gray, Ijeoma Oluo, Marlon James, Amanda Gorman, Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson, Nikki May, Terry Macmillan, Brit Bennett, Austin Channing Brown, Ibram X. Kendi, Walter Mosley, Amber Ruffin & Lacey Lamar.