Joe Fortes instructs local swimmers, circa 1905 (City of Vancouver Archives)

Black History Month has been a February tradition since 1926. In 2012, for the first time in Vancouver history, the City of Vancouver partnered with the Vancouver celebration organizers to host a slew of Black History Month events.

The collaboration is welcome; Vancouver has a rich tapestry of Black history and the more support the celebration receives, the more we’ll learn. Did you know that Seraphim “Joe” Fortes (pictured above) who moved to Vancouver from Barbados became English Bay’s first official lifeguard in 1901?

Find out about Vancouver urban history and Black History Month after the jump. I’ve also listed highlights from the packed schedule of Black History Month events including film, music and performance.
Continue reading:
How to celebrate Black History Month in Vancouver