While these challenges may seem more pronounced south of the border, Awad Ibrahim, vice-provost, equity, diversity and inclusive excellence, warns that Canada is not immune. “At the University of Ottawa, this moment presents an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to fostering a truly inclusive campus.”
Black History Month as a catalyst for change
For Ibrahim, Black History Month is a crucial moment for reflection and action. “2025 is the year that reveals who is truly committed to equity,” he says. He sees the ongoing debates around EDI as a test, one that will expose whether institutions and individuals have embraced these principles in a meaningful way or merely paid them lip service.
Black History Month serves as a reminder that the presence and achievements of Black communities in academic spaces are not a given, but the result of perseverance against systemic barriers. “We are here, and we are not going anywhere. We are Black and beautiful,” Ibrahim says. “This month is a momentum for institutions to push themselves to take concrete steps in ensuring inclusivity is ingrained in every aspect of their operations and everyday interactions.”
At the core of this vision is a redefinition of inclusion — not just as an invitation to marginalized groups to join existing structures, but as a fundamental shift in how these structures operate. “Inclusion is not about being a guest on campus — it is about being a host,” Ibrahim says. “True inclusion means that students, faculty and staff from all backgrounds feel a deep sense of belonging, enough to proudly recommend the University of Ottawa as a place that welcomes and values them.”
“True inclusion means that students, faculty and staff from all backgrounds feel a deep sense of belonging.”
Awad Ibrahim
— vice-provost for equity, diversity, and inclusive excellence, University of Ottawa
Taking action: What’s happening on campus
If EDI is about fostering a true sense of belonging, the 2025 Black History Month initiatives and events offer opportunities for learning, reflection and engagement, emphasizing dialogue in fostering a more inclusive community. From recognizing excellence to addressing systemic challenges, they encourage the University community to take part, not just as attendees, but as active contributors to the ongoing effort toward a more equitable campus.
Black History Month initiatives and events include:
- The Black Excellence Gala: A landmark event that kicked off the month at the Canadian Museum of History, honouring the past, celebrating the present and inspiring the future of Black communities.
- Black History Month panel discussions and workshops: Academic and community discussions that explore contemporary issues affecting Black communities, focusing on themes of equity, representation and systemic change.
- Cultural Soulful Expression Gala: Live poetry, music and performances by talented students and special guests, celebrating the rich, diverse voices within the Black communities.
Additionally, broader EDI initiatives continue on campus, such as the Courageous Conversations series and, in March, for the Mois de la Francophonie, a discussion panel to explore the richness of French-speaking communities, particularly those with African and Caribbean roots.
The road ahead
Black History Month is also a step in shaping the future. Ibrahim envisions an institution where EDI is not confined to a single office but is embedded in daily practice at every level. “My ultimate goal is to render my office useless,” he says, meaning that equity and inclusion should become second nature to the University’s operations rather than requiring constant reinforcement.
“If we say, ‘You belong here,’ then we must create an environment where that is truly felt,” Ibrahim says. “Black History Month 2025 offers the University of Ottawa not just an opportunity to celebrate, but a responsibility to lead by example every month, every day.”
