MONTREAL - For many young people history is irrelevant and boring.
But students in North End Montreal may see it a little differently now that a Montreal-born actor gave them a lesson they won't soon forget.
Benz Antoine visited La Dauversiere high school on Feb. 17 to talk about finding your place in the world, and how it begins by knowing the history of your people.
For Antoine, that means understanding the contributions that Black Canadians have made to society, and comprehending the obstacles they have faced.
"We all have the right to respect," said Antoine. "If people know the history of Black Canadians, they will have more respect for us, and we will have respect for them."
During his speech Antoine asked the diverse group of students one question: do you consider yourselves to be Quebecers?
For many, the answer was 'no.'
"The ones who don't necessarily feel connected, I'm sure they would want to but they don't necessarily feel connected. You have to feel loved," said Antoine.
He said that sense of inclusion comes from seeing yourself reflected.
Antoine said it's like that in the entertainment industry and it needs to be that way in the teaching of history too.
"I would be very satisfied to say you know what? There's no more Black History Month but it's included in the curriculum," said Antoine.
