What's New

News Release

What's New

Sixth Annual Reconciliation Day: Black History Month at Library and Archives Canada

Ottawa, February 12, 2005 - In celebration of Black History Month, Library and Archives Canada and J'Nikira Dinqinesh Education Centre are hosting the sixth annual Reconciliation Day on Saturday, February 12, 2005. The event will be held at Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa starting at 6:30 p.m.

One of the highlights of the evening will be a panel discussion entitled "The Keepers of the Story-Making a Difference-The Power of Choice." Special guest Professor David Divine from Dalhousie University in Halifax will join Librarian and Archivist of Canada Ian E. Wilson and Ottawa philanthropist David Smith to discuss their career paths and experiences which have actually made a difference in their communities.

Professor David Divine was appointed last September as the new James R. Johnston Chair in Black Canadian Studies at Dalhousie University. The Chair is a national senior academic post covering all of Canada, based in Halifax in recognition of the unique historical presence of the Black people in the area. This is Professor Divine's first visit to Library and Archives Canada.

In addition to the festivities during Reconciliation Day, Library and Archives Canada is pleased to highlight the virtual exhibition Anti-Slavery Movement in Canada. The exhibition features items from the collections of Library and Archives Canada and the J'Nikira Dinqinesh Education Centre and offers information on early settlements, Black Communities in Canada as well as the Anti-Slavery Society of Canada. For more information visit www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/anti-slavery/index-e.html.

February 12 was proclaimed by the mayor of Ottawa Reconciliation Day and offers an opportunity to pay tribute to like-minded men and women who have helped lay the foundations for racial and inter-cultural reconciliation in our communities.

- 30 -

Information:
Pauline M. Portelance
Media Relations Officer
Library and Archives Canada
613-996-6128