Nadia Thompson: Celebrating 45 Years of Black History in Manitoba
Black History Month isn't just 28 days in February—it's a year-round commitment to education, connection, and celebration. We sit down with Nadia Thompson, chair of Black History Manitoba, to discuss the 2026 theme "Rooted in Legacy: Honouring a Century of Black History" and the organization's 45th anniversary milestone.
Nadia shares the evolution from the Black History Month Celebration Committee to Black History Manitoba, a shift that signals their year-round presence in the community. What started as two or three events in 1981 has grown to over 45 events in the first week alone—a testament to growing community engagement and awareness.
We're talking:
- Why Black History Month is like a birthday celebration—recognizing that while the struggle exists every day, February offers a dedicated time to highlight pride and achievement
- The Craig Block and Pilgrim Baptist Church as forgotten pieces of Winnipeg's Black history, including their role in supporting railway porters and creating safe spaces for Black travellers
- The explosion of youth-led programming through Black Student Unions across Manitoba schools
- The importance of volunteerism and how just one hour a week can make a meaningful impact
- Moving beyond February: Emancipation Day in August, Kwanzaa in December, and year-round education
Nadia reminds us that diversity in Manitoba schools has skyrocketed since she was young, when she and her twin sister could count Black faces on one hand. Today's youth are more engaged, more connected, and more empowered to continue the legacy of those who fought for a seat at the table—or better yet, brought their own table.
As Nadia puts it: "We struggle every day. But in February, the world has given us an opportunity to highlight the pride of being Black in this world."
Find out more about Black History Manitoba and how you can get involved (in February and year-round): https://www.bhmwinnipeg.com/
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