RDP Offers Various Cultural Initiatives During Black History Month
Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) continues to provide opportunities for the community to advance their knowledge about cultures and history through a series of events and experiences.
In collaboration with the Students’ Association of RDP (SARDP), the Polytechnic welcomes students, faculty, staff and community members to participate in a variety of on-campus initiatives throughout Black History Month. In February, the Polytechnic community will honour the contributions, achievements and lived experiences of Black community members, including students, faculty and staff.
“At Red Deer Polytechnic, we are committed to continue fostering an equitable, inclusive and respectful environment that values all students, employees and guests,” says Rambo Nyirimihigo, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Advisor, Red Deer Polytechnic. “By offering a variety of culturally immersive opportunities at RDP, members of our campus community are able to expand their perspectives and engage in meaningful conversation about a variety of topics.”
At RDP, Black History Month will begin with a Flag Raising outside the Polytechnic’s main entrance on Monday, February 3 at 10:45 am.
Additional Black History Month initiatives and events at RDP include:
- Book and Fabric Display | February 3-14 | RDP Library
- Anti-Racism Workshop | Wednesday, February 5 | 12-3 pm | The Loft
- Panel of Black Thought Makers - leading a discussion centered around Black Resistance | Monday, February 10 | 1-2 pm | Global Hub
- Black Art Display | February 10-28 | 1500 Wing on RDP’s main campus
- Traditional Beef Patty Lunch | Thursday, February 13 | 11 am | Outside FarSide Bar & Grill (while supplies last)
- Keynote Speaker - Dieulita Datus, Program Manager, Care for Newcomers and Co-Founder, Ubuntu - Mobilizing Central Alberta | Wednesday, February 26 | 12:30-2 pm | GlobalHub
- Afro-Caribbean Night | Wednesday, March 5 | 4-7 pm | FarSide Bar & Grill
"This month is an important opportunity for us to reflect on the incredible contributions, achievements, and legacies of Black individuals, while also recognizing their lived experiences and ongoing struggle for justice and equality,” says Jacq Patterson, President, Students’ Association of Red Deer Polytechnic. “The Students' Association is committed to supporting Black voices, advocating for equity and continuing to work toward a future where every student has the opportunity to thrive on our campus."
In November 2024, RDP launched its new five-year Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy: Connection. Empowerment. Bravery. This strategy exemplifies the Polytechnic’s commitment to creating an environment where everyone feels valued and has equal opportunities.
In consultation with RDP’s leadership team, campus groups and employees, 30 members that comprise the EDI Student and Employee Advisory Committees will contribute to the implementation of EDI principles and strategies and help champion EDI initiatives that create meaningful impact within the RDP community.
