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Word, Sound, Power: Celebrating Black artistic expression

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Word, Sound, Power: Celebrating Black artistic expression

TORONTO, Feb. 3, 2025 – York University’s annual free celebration of Black artistry, featuring student and professional performances, showcases the creativity and resilience of the Black community, and the richness of its history and culture.

Dance, music, spoken word and more will come together Wednesday, Feb. 5 for an uplifting evening at the annual WORD, SOUND, POWER: An Annual Celebration of Black Artistic Expression. It will include remarks by Jean Augustine talking about what Black History Month signifies and its importance. Augustine, the first Black Canadian woman elected to the Parliament of Canada, introduced the motion in the House of Commons to recognize February as Black History Month.

The theme for this year’s celebration is Past, Present, Future.

Other highlights will include:

  • Oscar Paterson Jazz Ensemble, directed by Mike Cado
  • York University R&B Ensemble
  • Toronto Gospel Choir under the direction of Natalie Stewart
  • Spoken word performance by Randell Adjei, the inaugural Poet Laureate of Ontario and author of the book, I Am Not My Struggles
  • Various performances by local high schools which York Faculty of Education Professor Carl James, the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora, works with throughout the year

The event will be emceed by York Schulich School of Business Professor Jean Jacques Rousseau.

DAY: Wednesday, Feb. 5

TIME: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

WHERE: Sandra Faire and Ivan Fecan Theatre, Accolade East Building, York’s Keele Campus

About York University

York University is a modern, multi-campus, urban university located in Toronto, Ontario. Backed by a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners, we bring a uniquely global perspective to help solve societal challenges, drive positive change, and prepare our students for success. York's fully bilingual Glendon Campus is home to Southern Ontario's Centre of Excellence for French Language and Bilingual Postsecondary Education. York’s campuses in Costa Rica and India offer students exceptional transnational learning opportunities and innovative programs. Together, we can make things right for our communities, our planet, and our future.

Media Contact: Sandra McLean, York University Media Relations, 416-272-6317, sandramc@yorku.ca