Event Recap: Vernon Hosts Historic First Black History Month Celebration at Paddlewheel Hall

Vernon marked a significant cultural milestone this February with its first-ever community-wide Black History Month celebration, held at Paddlewheel Hall. The event was hosted by Vernon Immigrant Services in partnership with Africans in Okanagan, with support from United Way British Columbia.

As attendees entered the hall, it was immediately clear that the evening represented more than a cultural showcase — it was a gathering of Black communities from across the Okanagan and beyond. The room was filled with individuals and families representing multiple African and Caribbean nations, creating a rare and powerful visual moment of unity and visibility in the North Okanagan.

The program opened with a land acknowledgement delivered by Marni of the Okanagan Indian Band, grounding the celebration in respect for Indigenous lands and leadership.

Music and performance anchored the evening’s celebratory tone. The Afro Live Band energized the audience, followed by performances from Jamaican artists Jbyrd and TG Music, who brought Caribbean rhythms and vibrant stage presence to the hall. A deeply moving spoken word presentation by Camille Allen added emotional depth to the program, reflecting on heritage, resilience, and identity.

Dance featured prominently throughout the evening. Fusion Dance Club delivered a dynamic contemporary performance, while a traditional Rwanda dance presentation showcased East African cultural heritage through rhythm and movement. A fashion runway segment featuring two African designers celebrated African textiles and design, drawing enthusiastic applause from the crowd.

A key highlight of the evening was a panel discussion featuring speakers of Kenyan, Nigerian, and Ghanaian heritage. The panel created space for honest dialogue about Black identity, lived experience, migration, and building community in smaller Canadian cities. Their perspectives resonated strongly with the audience, reinforcing the importance of representation and storytelling.

The celebration also carried civic recognition. Harwinder Sandhu, MLA for Vernon-Lumby, presented an official proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month in British Columbia, acknowledging the contributions and histories of Black communities across the province. Certificates of appreciation were also presented to the event organizers in recognition of their leadership in bringing the inaugural event to life.

Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed Afro-Caribbean cuisine that reflected the diverse cultures represented in the room.

As the program concluded, one thing was evident: this was not a small gathering or symbolic gesture. It was a full hall, a strong showing of community, and a celebration marked by pride, culture, and connection. For many in attendance, it was the first time seeing such a visible and united Black presence in Vernon.

The event stands as a historic first for the city — and, judging by the response, likely the beginning of a lasting annual tradition.