Acadia University - African Heritage Month

Deja Forbes

By us, to me, represents a structure and firm foundation of strength cultivated by Black people’s unwavering ability to thrive. By Us means that something exists from the hands of a people that have persevered, and they understand me and connect with me, even if they never met me...

For us means that we have reframed the constraints of segregation and we have flipped it into opportunities for inclusivity. We have created safety nets, spaces, tools for success, and many other things for us. Doors have been opened, by us, for us. Now so much is available for us. The love our ancestors poured into the world is for us. Equity we fought for in so many spaces is reserved for us to support us. Respect is for us. And sometimes we still have to fight for it, but it is for us, simply because we exist. And we never forget the fight that was made by us, for us. Especially because we are still fighting it now.

Joyce Adeyi

When I hear the theme "For Us, By Us: Celebrating Black Excellence," I think about intentionality and ownership. It speaks to creating spaces where Black voices, stories, and achievements are centered rather than explained or justified. For me personally, Black excellence is not only about visible success, but also about resilience, growth, and showing up authentically in spaces where we are often underrepresented. It reminds me that excellence can take many forms, whether through perseverance, community-building, or carving out space for others, but most importantly, excellence is also about presence and existing fully in one’s authenticity.

Blessing Sithole

For me, the statement ‘For Us By Us’ allows me to reflect on the history of my people, and how my forefathers fought to preserve the culture I can be proud of till this day. It is a form of self-expression, the ability to be unapologetically Black despite where I am. It is the ability to choose how I want to express myself as an African woman and portray my culture as a Ndau/Shangani woman with no justification needed. My culture and blackness is so unique and rich just like any other making it important that my portrayal of my heritage is considered enough or worth representing without looking at other unnecessary criteria.

Megan Glasgow

The theme “For Us, By Us” centers ownership, community and self-determination. It reflects the importance of creating spaces that are shaped by our voices, values, and lived experiences. This theme affirms that our stories and traditions need no external validation as they are worthy and complete as they are.

The theme is rooted in pride and emphasizes ownership of our narrative. It is also about joy and celebrating music, food, fashion, and all the things that make us happy.

“For Us, By Us” invites everyone to show up authentically and to be embraced by community. It is a reminder that when we remain authentic and create together, we can build spaces that affirm belonging and connection.

Saheed Akande

To me, “For Us, By Us” speaks to ownership, intention, and authenticity. It reflects the idea that Black excellence doesn’t need external validation, it is cultivated within our communities, shaped by our histories, and carried forward through collective care and resilience. Personally, it represents my journey of learning to take pride in my voice, my work, and my presence in spaces where representation matters. Excellence, for me, looks like showing up fully, uplifting others, and building pathways for those who come after me.