Black History Month: Fade to Black Festival kicks off its 13th edition

Quebec's largest festival celebrating Black History Month returns to Montreal.

Fade to Black Festival, now in its 13th edition, features performances, panels, screenings and more. will bring together about 50 artists and guests.

It is a creation of Fabien Colas and his foundation.

“What can make Black History Month a big, fun and meaningful, impactful celebration in Montreal,” said Colas, an actress, filmmaker and producer.

“We can think about where we have come, what we have achieved, and where we are today. Here is today's holiday. And how can we prepare for the future? This is the spirit of the festival.”

With in-person and online programming, Colas says equal access is on his mind. Rebecca Jean, a well-known performer of the festival, agrees.

“Looks like Quebec has a shot,” said Jean, a singer, songwriter, author and producer. “And if you're not in the right frame, sometimes you feel invisible, or you just don't exist.

“I am very excited about my show on February 9th. So this Friday. It will be at Cabaret Lion D'Or. I am very happy with the artists who will be on stage with me.”

In addition to playing with his own band, the singer performs with other BIPOC artists.

“I think indigenous people and black people, our history has a lot in common, especially this Black History Month,” Ginn said. “So I think it makes sense that we share this moment.”

“We are nowhere near where we need to be in terms of true equality and true inclusion everywhere. So that's my hope,” added Colas. “We are celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Fabien Cola Foundation, which was founded 13 years ago, and I hope that in the next 20 years we will achieve true equality and inclusion. That's my hope.”

Tickets for the festival February 7-11 available here.