As part of Black History Month, St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School welcomed renowned Canadian Author Lawrence Hill for a special presentation. Students from St. Thomas More, Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary School, and Cathedral High School gathered to hear Hill speak about his life, his writing, and the importance of Black history in Canada.
Hill is best known for his novel “The Book of Negroes,” which was later adapted into a six-part television miniseries. During his visit, he spoke about his journey as a writer and shared highlights from his personal experiences growing up as a biracial individual and how they shaped his perspective and storytelling.
The focus of the visit was to provide students with an opportunity to ask Hill questions, opening up dialogue surrounding Black experiences and his career.
One question posed was, “How do you think your work has changed the way people see Black history in Canada?”
Hill emphasized that Black history is not separate from Canadian history, but rather an essential part of it.
“I think fiction has at its core the opportunity to make people see into the human soul and imagine their lives in ways that perhaps an article in a newspaper, or thesis can't do so effectively.”
He added that while he can’t measure the exact influence he’s had, his hope is to “excite people about little known aspects of Black history in this country and excite them through the drama.”
Hill encouraged students to seek out stories that are complex and dimensional, explaining that fiction has a unique power to help people understand history on a deeper, more human level.
The hour-long discussion touched on topics surrounding stereotypes in the Black community and how to overcome them, Biracial identity, advocating for more Black-focused curriculum, dealing with criticism in art, and following one’s passion.
Concluding the session, Hill was asked what he hoped students would take away from his visit.
Hill encouraged students to pursue what they love with patience and dedication, reminding them that success does not happen overnight.
“If you have something you love, give it some love, you know, give it some time and some effort and have some patience with it,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone, whether through travel, volunteering, studying, or working in a new community. According to Hill, these experiences help people grow, gain maturity, and better understand who they are and how they want to live.
Hill’s visit left students inspired and thoughtful, offering valuable lessons about history, identity, and following one’s passions.
