Celebrating Black History Month – and recognizing the work we must do
Throughout Black History Month, the University of Waterloo celebrates the contributions and achievements of Black community members. We are proud to share their stories throughout the year and take time each February to recognize their impact on the University and around the world.
I encourage you to visit our Black History Month page to read about the important work of Black individuals and communities at Waterloo. From implementing anti-racism strategies to establishing scholarships for Black students, Waterloo alumni, donors and partners are driving meaningful change as our University learns (and unlearns) what being diverse and inclusive truly means.
This desire for meaningful change has inspired many. Within the Office of Advancement, we have created an anti-racism taskforce (AARTF) to foster equity in our work and lives. I commend my team for addressing racism and discrimination as we educate and support our colleagues and communities.
Across the University, we recognize that we have a responsibility to identify and remove systemic barriers to education, which have negatively affected Black students and researchers. This anti-racism work is done with purpose and excitement as we create a University where all feel they belong.
Since its founding, the University of Waterloo has uniquely prepared students to understand the world through experiential learning. As Canada’s top innovation university, Black experiences are essential to our goal of solving complex global challenges.
Nenone Donaldson
Vice-President, Advancement