February is Black History Month and in the spirit of the month, the Cochrane Historical & Archival Preservation Society (CHAPS) is looking to diversify.
"CHAPS' mission is to tell stories about the Cochrane area and its history," said Mark Boothby, the director of CHAPS. "We're always looking for stories to put out to educate people about the history of the area. Black History Month presents the opportunity to tell the stories of folks from that community in the area."
In past years, CHAPS has celebrated the legacy of Dewey Blaney — Cochrane's first Black resident. But after so many years, Boothby said CHAPS wants to diversify its storytelling.
"We've told that story many times. It's a fantastic story, but it's been told many times," he said.
Boothby said that CHAPS has put the call out for residents of colour to share their stories with the society but they've received little response thus far.
"The part we struggle with is that we don't have many stories to tell," Boothby said. "We'd like to diversify our stories. We've all contributed to the area's history, and it's such a rich history. It would be a shame to lose [those stories].”
Boothby added that those interested in sharing their stories can contact him at [email protected].
Other initiatives
CHAPS is not the only organization celebrating Black History Month, with the public library organizing several initiatives aimed at education, awareness and appreciation.
"Currently, we have a book display available with Black authors of both fiction and non-fiction," said Jessie Pepin, the community outreach and program librarian with the Cochrane Public Library. "We also have three book clubs – a pop-up one and two adult clubs."
These book clubs will be reading literature by renowned Black authors, including The Nichol Boys by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Colson Whitehead and Long Way Down by acclaimed poet Jason Reynolds.
Those participating in the book clubs will also learn about the history of North America's Black community and the institutional mistreatment many have faced.
Pepin said the library receives a lot of positive interest in the initiative each year and feels it's important to recognize the accomplishments and history of Canada's Black community.
"It's an important thing to recognize people who have been historically underprivileged and to recognize their accomplishments," Pepin said. "They have a different history and it needs to be recognized and learned about."
Town takes a supportive role
While some community groups choose to take part in Black History Month, the Town of Cochrane has no official plans. However, it is supportive of those who do.
"The town has not specifically organized anything related to Black History Month. However, we support community-driven initiatives such as supporting community events through approval of required permits, requests to light the bridge, or flag-raising," said Kristin Huybrecht, manager of corporate communications.
Despite having no formal recognition of Black History Month planned, the town said they are in the process of hiring an equity and inclusion specialist.
"Recognizing the importance of equity and inclusion both in our community and in our organization, the town has committed funds to support the addition of a full-time equity and inclusion specialist," Huybrecht said.
Hiring for that position will begin later this year.
