Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.  

Location: Virtual through Zoom – https://mcmaster.zoom.us/meeting/register/-4ZR9UgFQOGr4Xg16uLBlA 

Description: In the face of amplified backlash against equity work and the retreat of major organizations in their equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) efforts, Dr. Oni Blackstock (https://www.healthjustice.co/our-team/) will offer a realistic yet optimistic perspective on how to drive strategic EDI and anti-racism change in climates of social and structural resistance.    Target audience: Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) learners and employees; including physicians, clinicians, researchers and staff.  However, members of the broader McMaster community and the public are welcome to attend.    RSVP: Please register through the Zoom Link (https://mcmaster.zoom.us/meeting/register/-4ZR9UgFQOGr4Xg16uLBlA) by Feb 12. If you have any questions, contact Megan Lacy at lacym@mcmaster.ca. 

Event organizers and supporters:

This event is made possible by the Faculty of Health Sciences Office of Equity and Inclusion in collaboration with the Department of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Department of Family Medicine, Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, and the School of Rehab Sciences. 

Date: Thursday February 20th    

Time: 4:00pm to 6:00pm

Location: McMaster Museum of Arts 

Description: The Equity and Inclusion Office and the McMaster Museum of Art invite you to a guided tour of the current exhibit, Ascending Horizons, led by Interim Director and Senior Curator, Betty Julian.  

The tour will explore some of the cultural notions of Black Optimism and Indigenous ways of being. Speaking about the artworks and the cultural intentions of the artists. 

Following the tour, join us for a facilitated dialogue that bridges these concepts, drawing connections between the visionary evolution of Indigenous feminisms, futurisms, and some of the connections with Global Africa and Black diasporic knowledge(s).  

The event will conclude with a social gathering, featuring appetizers and an opportunity to connect with others. We look forward to sharing this unique experience with you! 

This event only has space for 25 people, to attend please register: https://forms.office.com/r/m1NiSaDiiM  

Date: Saturday, February 22nd

Time: 5 – 10:30pm EST

Location: Liuna Station 360 James Street North Grand Central Ballroom Hamilton, ON L8L 1H5

Description:

Since 1996, the Reverend John C Holland Awards have celebrated excellence in Hamilton’s Black community. The Awards celebrate and recognize the academic achievements and aspirations of Black youth by offering scholarships and support to assist them in accessing post-secondary education. The Awards also celebrate the rich cultural heritage of our community and recognize the contributions of local Black leaders to the social, economic, and cultural life of our city. Hosted by the Hamilton Black History Council, and with the support of community partners, the annual event is attended by hundreds of individuals and organizations and is a cornerstone of Black History Month in Hamilton.

Date: Saturday February 22nd 

Time: 4:30pm to 9:00pm

Location: The Loft 4th Floor, The Hub

Description: Experience the joy and vibrant traditions of East Africa at our Mock Wedding Celebration! This interactive event offers a playful yet educational glimpse into the rich customs of East African weddings. Whether you’re well-versed in these traditions or discovering them for the first time, join us for a cultural journey filled with color, energy, and celebration. Come connect, learn, and immerse yourself in the diverse wedding practices that bring East African communities together.