The Quinte Cultural Innovation Committee (QCIC) is proud to introduce our 2025 African Heritage Month Calendar—a reflection of progress, persistence, and the power of community. While we’re excited to see more happening in the region compared to previous years, we also recognize that the work of fostering equity and meaningful financial commitment to support these efforts still lags behind. This calendar represents not only celebration but also a call to action for deeper investment in equitable change.

Here are some highlights from this year’s calendar:
Africa and the World by the African Arts Institute (Feb. 1): A celebration of African influence in global arts and culture, this event reminds us that every thread of humanity has roots in the Mother Continent. The African Arts Institute’s presence in Belleville has been a game-changer, and we’re thrilled to see their work flourish.
Intersectional Feminism Presentation by Selam Debs (Feb. 6): A thought-provoking discussion on equity, inclusion, and the power of intersectionality. Pre-register on Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElcemhqz0qHtOjIUuandRpf9gXjK3Gxv7K#/registration. This event is made possible by investment from Women's W.O.R.K in collaboration with Business Professional Women Hastings & Prince Edward (BPW H&PE). The 15-minute Q&A session is now extended to 30-minutes -- sponsored by Bay of Quinte Regional Marketing Board.
Mingle at the Quinte Arts Council (Feb. 13): Nikki Clarke from the Nikki Clarke Network
Live Reading of Paperclip Princess by Nikki Clarke (Feb. 14): Hosted in partnership with the City of Quinte West, this family-friendly event blends storytelling with messages of entrepreneurial empowerment and resilience.
QCIC’s Living Family Schools and Permaculture Initiatives: Invite Only -- private event | request invite via general contact form.
Joy and Wellness (Feb. 22): This third annual presentation at These 4 Walls is always a blast.
These events serve as stepping stones toward a future where African Heritage Month is recognized as a vital part of the Bay of Quinte’s cultural fabric.
Indigenous Connections
Progress is only possible because of shared effort and determination. Nia:wen, which means "thank you" in the language of the Haudenosaunee people, is a micro gesture of gratitude and respect that we’re encouraging everyone to adopt.
Language revitalization is critical for First Nations communities, and it is equally important for non-Indigenous residents to engage with these efforts meaningfully. Learning to say and write "Nia:wen" is a simple but powerful act of relationship repair—far more meaningful than performative land acknowledgments that are not accompanied by equitable actions.
We invite you to practice saying it, writing it, and spreading the word. Small, thoughtful gestures can foster stronger relationships and contribute to healing and reconciliation.
A Call for Equitable Action
While we celebrate the growth reflected in this year’s calendar, we also recognize that equitable financial support remains a challenge. True progress requires investment—of time, resources, and commitment to dismantling systemic barriers.
The 2025 calendar is more than a list of events; it is a call to action. Attend, engage, and advocate for meaningful change. Together, we can create a region where African heritage and Indigenous connections are celebrated, honored, and supported by equitable systems.
Moving Forward, Together
Visit our digital cafe (quinteculture.ca) for updates, event details, and ways to get involved. Nia:wen to our incredible partners—Hastings & Prince Edward libraries, the Bay of Quinte Regional Marketing Board, and countless others—for standing with us on this journey.
Let’s continue moving forward—one step, one event, one action at a time. Nia:wen.
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