Ify Chiwetelu

Dr. Malinda Smith is a driving force behind UCalgary’s momentum to ensure all equity-deserving groups have equitable opportunity to succeed Dr. Malinda Smith is knowledgeable, experienced, committed, and determined. As one of Canada’s foremost researchers and academic-administrators in the areas of equity, diversity, anti-racism, and inclusive practices in higher education, she has a vision of inclusive and equitable pathways for accessibility and success for all within the UCalgary’s community.

This project does not position the Prairies as Black ancestral territory or homelands. To be Black on the Prairies is to be part of a colonial legacy that begins on the ancestral lands of the First Nations and Métis people of this region. We aim to recognize Black and Indigenous peoples’ shared histories and affirm our ongoing relationships.

The Black on the Prairies project is a multi-platform project led by CBC Saskatoon journalist Omayra Issa and CBC Radio One host Ify Chiwetelu. Black on the Prairies explores the past and present lives of Black life on the Canadian Prairies through personal essays, articles, audio stories, images and more.