Black History Month is a time to recognize, reflect on, and celebrate the contributions, achievements, and leadership of Black communities, past and present. Taking place each February, it creates space to acknowledge histories that have long been overlooked, while also celebrating the ongoing impact Black individuals continue to have across culture, education, activism, and leadership.
Black History Month is a time to recognize, reflect on, and celebrate the contributions, achievements, and leadership of Black communities, past and present. Taking place each February, it creates space to acknowledge histories that have long been overlooked, while also celebrating the ongoing impact Black individuals continue to have across culture, education, activism, and leadership.
At the MSA, we’re excited to celebrate Black History Month alongside our students. This month is an opportunity to highlight Black voices on campus, showcase what Black students are up to, and invite the wider student community to take part in events, initiatives, and conversations happening throughout February
Why Black History Month Matters
Black History Month is crucial because it pushes us to look more closely at the histories, stories, and systems that have shaped the world we live in today. It acknowledges the resilience, creativity, and leadership of Black communities, while also confronting the realities of racism and exclusion that still exist.
Beyond learning about the past, Black History Month is also about representation and visibility in the present. Seeing Black leadership reflected on campus helps create a sense of belonging and possibility, and reminds us that Black excellence is not limited to history books. It’s happening here, right now, within our student community.
Black Students, Black Leadership, and Getting Involved
This Black History Month, the MSA is spotlighting Black students, leaders, and staff whose work helps shape student life on campus. From advocacy and community-building to creative and academic leadership, Black students continue to drive meaningful change and create spaces where others can thrive.
We encourage students to stay connected with what Black students are up to by attending events, supporting Black-led initiatives, and getting involved in student communities. Whether you’re looking to meet new people, find support, or contribute to student leadership, there are many ways to be part of the community this month and beyond.
Black and Racialized Student Success Centre (BRSSC)
The Black and Racialized Student Success Centre (BRSSC) plays a key role in supporting Black and racialized students at Mohawk. The centre offers programming, resources, and a welcoming space focused on student success, advocacy, and community.
Students are encouraged to connect with the BRSSC and consider joining the Black and Racialized Student Success Centre Council. Getting involved is a great way to have your voice heard, contribute to initiatives that support racialized students, and help shape programming on campus.
Learn more and get involved here: BRSSC
Join a Student Community
Black History Month is also a great time to connect with student communities on campus. Joining a student group or council can help you build connections, find support, and take part in shaping student life at Mohawk. Being part of a community creates space for shared experiences, collaboration, and leadership, and helps make campus feel like home. See what communities exist at the MSA.
Student Spotlights
Marvin Colebrooke
This Black History Month, we’re highlighting Marvin Colebrooke, a Graphic Design student in the Illustration stream and a member of the Black and Racialized Student Success Centre Council. Now in his sixth and final semester, Marvin is passionate about fine art, advocacy, and community-building.
Through his painting and digital artwork, Marvin tells stories of Afro-Caribbean resilience and Black excellence. His use of bright, vibrant colour is meant to inspire, uplift, and reflect the creative influences that shaped his own journey.
As part of the BRSSC Council, Marvin contributes to programs and resources that help build confidence and foster a strong sense of community for Black and racialized students on campus.
When asked what Black History Month means to him in relation to creativity and advocacy, Marvin shared, “I appreciate the opportunity for Black voices to be heard and our history and stories to be told and recognized, but, it is a new concept for me coming from a predominantly Black country which is The Bahamas. Our history is Black history and it is celebrated everyday through our creative culture. Ultimately, I feel like Black history should and must be celebrated daily.”
Follow Marvin on Instagram and check out his portfolio website.
Lenny Benson
This Black History Month, we’re also highlighting Lenny Benson, a Broadcasting Radio and Creative Content student in his final semester. Lenny is currently launching two new shows and balancing producing, scripting, and hosting — bringing storytelling and media to life on campus.
Lenny is the host of the Mediator Torch Podcast, where he platforms up-and-coming entrepreneurs and artists, spotlighting creativity in Hamilton and beyond. Through his work, he creates space for Black voices to share experiences, connect across differences, and be seen on a human level.
As a Brand Ambassador for the MSA, Lenny uses his platform to advocate for Black students and connect with the community through events and social media. His involvement also led him to open for the Black Excellence Tour: Comedy Railroad, helping bring Black creatives and culture to the Mohawk community.
Lenny shared, “Black History Month to me means bringing all students of all backgrounds together and sharing our rich culture as well as educating. There’s always misinformation so it’s important that individuals learn the beauties and values and talents of every Black person that makes Black History Month a success.”
Follow Lenny's podcast on Youtube.
Upcoming Event: Comedy Night — Black Excellence Tour (Comedy Railroad)
As part of this year’s Black History Month celebration, students are invited to attend the Black Excellence Tour: Comedy Railroad. This Comedy Night is a chance to come out, enjoy a night of laughter, and support Black creatives and performers. It’s also a great way to show up in a fun, social setting. Learn more and register today through the event calendar listing.
Looking Beyond February
While February offers a dedicated moment for reflection and celebration, uplifting Black voices should not be limited to one month. True inclusion means staying engaged year-round, by attending events, supporting Black-led initiatives, joining student communities, and continuing to listen and learn.
Small, consistent actions — showing up, listening, and getting involved — help build a stronger, more inclusive campus community.
Celebrating Black History Month at the MSA is about more than recognition, it’s about connection, community, and action. It’s a chance to celebrate Black excellence on campus, stay in the loop about what Black students are doing, and take part in building a more inclusive student experience.
By getting involved, supporting one another, and staying engaged beyond this month, we help create a campus culture rooted in respect, representation, and meaningful change.