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Black Education Symposium celebrates identity
Being part of this book affirms my commitment to claim space for Black truth in education.” — Princess Edogiawerie
Editor’s Note: Our archives tell the story of a community in motion. While this article was published some time ago, it remains an important part of the historical record and the ongoing narrative of Caribbean life and achievement.
It was a truly motivational, educational, and inspiring day at the 2nd Annual Black Education Symposium, marked by the launch of The ABCs of Blackness in Our Schools: Affirming Identity, Fostering Belonging, and Celebrating Learning.
The book was edited by Dr. Andrew B. Campbell (Dr. ABC), Assistant Professor at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), Director of the Centre for Black Studies in Education (CBSE), and Coordinator of the Black Future Educators’ Pathway. In the program booklet, Dr. Campbell wrote that this was “The first book written through the Centre for Black Studies in Education. It is an honour to have worked with Pembroke Publishers and with an amazing team of contributors.”
According to the description on the OISE website, the book is “A highly anticipated must-read for K-12 teachers and anyone working with Black youth.” It offers practical, research-grounded strategies designed to:
- Inspire students to affirm Black identity and joy
- Foster a true sense of belonging in the classroom
- Celebrate learners and culture through sound educational principles
Several contributors shared powerful reflections on what this project means to them.
Princess Edogiawerie writes, “Being part of this book affirms my commitment to claim space for Black truth in education. My chapter honours Black women’s presence as living pedagogy that anchors belonging, excellence, and transformative possibility in schools.”
Doreen Bonsu adds, “Being part of this book is a tribute to what my inner child needed, a text that affirms Black identity and truly sees the dignity of Black children.”
Professor Darren Hamilton notes, “Black students deserve to have their identities affirmed across the curriculum. Engaging in Black music is one way to accomplish this.”
Professor Linda Iwenofu reflects, “It is an honour and a deep responsibility. I’m grateful to share tools that interrupt harm and help classrooms become places where Black students can heal and thrive.”
Rosemary Sadlier, former President of the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS), writes, “I am delighted to be part of this book, because my chapter on affirming will support the official work educators do, or can consider doing. It is more than encouragement; it is life-affirming for students in how they see themselves and how they will be guided into the future.”
Anthonia Ikemeh shares, “As a Black female educator, my responsibility is to serve my community. I relish any opportunity to use my voice to support, advocate, and empower my village.”
On Wednesday, January 28th, 2026, Rosemary Sadlier also posted an appreciative message on Facebook, thanking Dr. Campbell for the opportunity to contribute and celebrating the affirming experience of connecting with fellow authors and Pembroke Publishing.
This book is valuable. By amplifying the voices of diverse experts in equity, diversity, and inclusion, it serves as a powerful tool for transformation. Each chapter focuses on relevant, timely issues in education, making the book both practical and visionary in empowering students to rise to excellence and greatness.