BLACK OPEN MIC

Culturally specific, relevant & appropriate Black led Event

THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2026 7PM - 8:30PM

Join us on Zoom for a safe space to talk through poetry, music, or personal storytelling about experiences of systemic anti-Black racism. Reflect on inspirational quotes from Black leaders and engage in dialogue that centers truth, resilience, and healing.Allies are welcome to listen, and the session includes a guided healing activity led by a culturally responsive psychotherapist/ social worker — free to attend, limited space, register now.

TOGETHER WE ARE STRONGER®

The session will also include a guided healing activity led by a culturally responsive psychotherapist/social worker, who will share practical strategies and tools to help participants process, decompress, and reflect on what has been discussed. Whether you wish to share your voice or simply listen and learn, all are welcome.

Poets, Musicians & Storytellers Welcome!

We invite you to share your stories, poetry, or music — real talents, real people, real experiences. Whether you’re a poet, musician, or storyteller, this is your chance to showcase your work to a supportive audience.

Sign up to perform, simply tune in to listen, or help amplify the voices of our Black community. This event supports individuals impacted by systemic anti-Black racism, marginalization, racial trauma, and intergenerational trauma by creating space to share experiences, elevate voices, and express creativity.

Black Health Week (March 5-12, 2026)

Black Health Week is recognized annually from the first Thursday to the second Thursday in March. It raises awareness about the health impacts of anti-Black racism on Black communities. This week serves as a time for advocacy, support, and engagement with research and resources dedicated to advancing Black health and well-being.

AGENDA:

7:00PM - 7:05PM: Welcome & Intro (Carion Fenn Foundation). Expert: WMRCC, Andrea Wilkinson

7:05PM - 7:15PM: Quotes:(Martin Luther King Jr.)

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matters.”; “The time is always right to do what is right.”

7:15PM-7:35PM: Open Mic

7:35PM - 7:45PM: Quotes: (Martin Luther King Jr.)

“If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way”; “We must learn to live together as brothers, or we will perish together as fools”

7:45PM - 8:05PM: Open Mic

8:05PM - 8:25PM: Healing Activity (WMRCC, Andrea Wilkinson)

8:25PM - 8:30PM: Closing

Supporting & Rebuilding Communities

The Black Open Mic draws on evidence-based, culturally informed practices, including traditional African storytelling and guided healing activities. Facilitators are trained in culturally relevant care, creating a space where participants can express themselves, find comfort, and engage in healing in ways that honor their identity and culture.

Storytelling

Storytelling is central to our approach, rooted in African knowledge and ways of knowing, and forms the foundation of poetry, rap, and spoken word across the Black diaspora. African culture is deeply embedded in stories, riddles, and parables, which we use to inspire connection and reflection. Participants can strengthen self-worth, build confidence, and enhance social connectedness, positively impacting their overall quality of life. Poets, musicians, and writers are welcome to share their craft, and allies are invited to listen and support.

Proudly Presented by the Durham Black Network

The Durham Black Network advocates for equity and equality by raising awareness of anti-Black racism in Durham Region. We are committed to dismantling systemic barriers that affect the diverse experiences of the Black community, while working alongside allies to foster meaningful, lasting change.

Rogers TV - Health 180 with Carion Fenn

In recognition of Black Health Week — observed annually from the first Thursday to the second Thursday in March to raise awareness about the health impacts of anti-Black racism on Black communities — content from both the Black Open Mic and the Black Experience Townhall will be featured in two special episodes on Rogers TV as part of Health 180 with Carion Fenn. Please note that by participating, you are giving consent to the Carion Fenn Foundation and Rogers TV to record, broadcast, and use your image, voice, and presentation in connection with this event.

Black Open Mic