The Guelph Black Heritage Society will be holding an online event with Cecil Foster, the author of a new book on Canadian history.
The virtual event will feature a discussion about Foster’s research and writing. Foster’s book, “They Call Me George: The Untold Story of Black Train Porters and the Birth of Modern Canada” tells the story of the Black men who worked on Canada’s train lines around the turn of the century. Foster argues that the porters helped to create Canada’s multicultural society. Attendees can register online to be a part of the conversation, with a donation suggested.
In addition to his writing, Foster will also speak on his educational work. He is the Chairman of the Department of Transnational Studies at the University of Buffalo, and he has also written novels and journalism.
Virtual events, often promoted through tools like flyer printing and social media, have become a popular way for authors to connect with audiences in geographically distant locations. The Guelph Black Heritage Society has hosted both in-person and virtual events, with the goal of promoting awareness of the role Black people have had in Canadian history, and in particular, Southern Ontario.
Cecil Foster will speak on “They Call Me George” virtually on the evening of July 15. Proceeds will go to the society’s Change Starts Now education initiative.
