The history of why Black History Month is celebrated
by Robert McPherson

Black History Month is celebrated around the world every February. The celebration centers on the accomplishments and contributions of black people from all over the world in all aspects of society, from years gone by to the present. From sports to politics, engineers to doctors, musicians to inventors, just to name a few. Even a black person is governing the most powerful country on this earth. Forums, films and workshops are held in Calgary to inform the public of such accomplishments.

The National Black Coalition of Canada Society, Calgary Chapter (NBCC Calgary) has been hosting a Black Gospel Concert for the past 20 years at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium as part of the celebrations. This concert is not just any concert. It is held to remind the participants and the audience of the association and connection Gospel Music and Songs have with slavery. When the slaves were being beaten, they were singing a Gospel song. When they were being sold, they were singing a Gospel song. If you listen to the words, you will realize that it is telling you a story of hope. It tells a story of a better tomorrow. It tells a story of freedom.

Gospel music and songs have transformed the mind of even the most hardened person to one of acceptance and appreciation of one another.

NBCC Calgary has modeled their existence on the speech given by Dr. Martin Luther King where he says that “one day, we will not be judged by the colour of our skin, but by the contents of our character.” Gospel music does that to you, and NBCC Calgary is proud to be able to host this concert, so that the people of Calgary can come and be blessed by the words of the songs that they hear that night, and leave there knowing that there will be a better tomorrow.

For more information on Fred Hammond’s concert appearance visit www.faithhouseproductions.com or see their ad on Page 18 in the paper.