A StoryBridge Open Circle Pop-Up Event in Celebration of Black History Month
Black History Month is a time to honour Black excellence, but it is also an invitation to listen, reflect, and learn. Black Voices on a Page offers a calm, intentional space to engage deeply with Black Canadian stories through guided reflection, shared dialogue, and collective learning.
Why This Gathering Matters:
While panels, lectures, and performances are common during Black History Month, Black Voices on a Page offers something different: a non-performative, reflective, and intimate space centred on storytelling, listening and bridge-building.
Black Voices on a Page
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Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026
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Time: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
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Location: 115 Drake Centre, 181 Freedman Crescent, University of Manitoba (Asper School of Business Building)
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Format: In-person | Facilitated Sharing Circle
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Audience: Open to all who can read and communicate in English
Black Canadian memoirs and books hold powerful insights into identity, belonging, migration, resilience, and navigating life and systems in Canada.
By gathering around these stories in a facilitated sharing circle, participants are invited to reflect on personal and collective lessons, build empathy, and deepen understanding across diverse cultures and lived experiences.
Featured Storytellers & Books:
Devon Clunis
"ONE – A Story of Hope in Our Time"
An inspiring autobiography chronicling Devon Clunis’s journey from a small village in Jamaica to becoming Canada’s first Black Chief of Police, and later Ontario’s inaugural Inspector General of Policing. The book explores leadership, belonging, service, and hope in the face of systemic barriers.
Patlee Creary, PhD
A lyrical collection of essays, poetry, and spoken-word reflections tracing a hero’s journey from intergenerational trauma to self-sovereignty. Written for overachievers, caregivers, and healing souls, this book invites readers to stop performing for the world and begin witnessing their own story with honesty and compassion.
'Segun Olude
"Itàn ati Àṣà Ìbíle Yorùbá: The Yorùbá Narrative in Words and Images"
A powerful cultural preservation project introducing readers to Yorùbá history, language, and values through storytelling, explanation, and visual imagery. The book reconnects readers, especially those in the diaspora, with indigenous knowledge, traditions, and worldviews.
Participants are encouraged, but not required, to read one of the selected books ahead of time.
Book excerpts and guided reflection questions will be provided to help frame discussion and
support meaningful engagement with the text and with one another.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the event family‑friendly? Yes! This is an all‑ages event with a welcoming atmosphere.
Will there be photography/videography? Yes, we may document the event for StoryBridge communications. By attending an event, you are consenting to having your photograph/video taken. If you prefer not to be directly photographed or have your image shared on our media sites, please let an usher know upon arrival; we’ll provide a discreet indicator.
Is there parking or public transportation nearby? Yes. Street and lot parking are located within a short distance of the event site. The event site is a 3-8-minute walk from transit stops. Parking fees are not included with your event ticket.
Are there accessibility and inclusion supports? We aim to make this event welcoming and accessible by ensuring: Venue access: Wheelchair‑accessible entrance and washrooms. Seating: Mix of chair seating and open space; ushers available for support. Sound: Microphones for all speakers; PA system for performances. Sensory: Quiet space available (on request). Language: Program delivered in English; simple language and plain‑English summaries where possible. Support: If you have additional access needs (ASL interpretation, reserved seating, mobility support, etc.), please contact us before the event, so we can do our best to accommodate you.
Event Partners & Sponsors
