Athabasca University honours Black History Month by sharing stories and experiences of Black students, alumni, and faculty
Athabasca University is celebrating Black History Month by sharing stories and perspectives and amplifying the voices of Black Canadians and members of a university community like no other.
“Black History Month honours and commemorates the accomplishments and contributions of Black individuals and communities. It also emphasizes the continuous struggle for equality, liberation, and social justice,” said Dr. Candy Khan, AU’s associate vice-president of equity, diversity, and inclusion. “This month, we take a moment to reflect on the accomplishments of Black Canadians in the fields of literature, science, business, health, and the arts. Reflecting on historical injustices, discrimination, slavery, and criminalizing policies is equally vital.”
Throughout February, you’ll see stories about African, Caribbean, and Black community members who are making the world better and more equitable through their commitment to community, passion for volunteerism, and by using their voices as agents of change.
We’re also proud to share important learning resources to help people learn about Black history and to honour the legacy of Black Canadians.
Writer in residence explores hidden history and ‘lost language’ of Alberta’s Black cowboys
Bertrand Bickersteth
2024-25 Writer in Residence
📍Calgary, Alberta
Born in Sierra Leone and raised in Alberta, Bertrand Bickersteth has earned numerous awards for his poetry and other writings. AU’s 2024-25 writer in residence is currently exploring the untold stories of Black cowboys in Alberta.
For Bickersteth, this exploration of Black cowboy history is intertwined with issues of historical erasure, racial identity, and the complexities of belonging. He spoke about his research at a Nov. 20, public talk.
Volunteerism with roots in Nigeria, impact in Alberta
Lilian Amaka Okocha (Master of Business Administration '15)
📍Edmonton, Alberta
Lilian Amaka Okocha knew from an early age she wanted a better life for herself—and for others. Growing up in Nigeria, the youngest of seven children, Okocha worked hard to provide for herself, including working on a farm to help pay for her school fees.
The AU MBA grad and Alumni Award winner has advocated for others through volunteerism in her community. Now, she is providing leadership training through her own company and helping others realize their highest contribution.
Family the foundation of nursing grad’s global journey and success
Christine Zuwe (Post-LPN Bachelor of Nursing '24),
📍Calgary, Alberta
As a girl growing up in the Moyo District in Uganda, Christine Zuwe, dreamed of a life and education abroad that would break the cycle of poverty.
Now a registered nurse, successful business owner, wife, and mother of three young girls living in Calgary, Alta., Zuwe became the first member of her family to receive a university degree when she crossed Athabasca University's convocation stage in June 2024.
This nursing grad is leading the fight against anti-Black racism in health care
Donna Lawrence (Master of Nursing ’22)
📍Ancaster, Ontario
Donna Lawrence is paving the way for nurses so they don’t have to face the same anti-Black racism in health care that she did.
As an executive of Black Nurses Leading Change, an interest group of the Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario, she’s lending her voice to advocate for equality in hiring practices so that Black nurses can pursue any career they want free of racial bias.
AU Rising Star sets sights on not-for-profit leadership
Odion Welch (Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations ’17)
📍Edmonton, Alberta
Be the person you needed when you were growing up. It's simple, straightforward advice—and it has helped Odion Welch become the person she is today. After her own difficult childhood, Welch spends her time supporting Black youth, and improving the health of African, Caribbean, and Black communities.
AU’s flexibility key to success for three-time Olympian
Bryan Barnett (Bachelor of Commerce, Major in Accounting ’24)
📍Calgary, Alberta
Bryan Barnett has accomplished many impressive feats during his athletic career as a three-time Olympian in track and field and bobsledding.
This past June, Barnett added one more achievement: AU graduate. He’s one of many elite athletes who have turned to AU’s flexibility in online learning to balance education and sport.
Learn about Black History Month with these AU library resources
Athabasca University's Library and Scholarly Resources has provided a selection of materials that pay homage to Black history and honour the Black legacy in our world.
Check out the Black History Month resources
Educate yourself about anti-racism during Black History Month
The AU library has also curated a list of anti-racism resources. These resources range from books about white privilege and systemic racism to guides for learning about how to talk to children about racism.