Lama Mugabo Discusses Hogan's Alley for Black Excellence Day

Today, grades 6 and 7 students had the fortunate opportunity to listen to Lama Mugabo, the Founding Director of the Hogan’s Alley Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the presence and importance of Black history in Vancouver. He gave an engaging presentation about Vancouver’s historic Black neighbourhood, Hogan’s Alley. During his presentation, Mr. Mugabo discussed the history of this neighbourhood located in Strathcona, along with the community’s hopes for the future of Hogan’s Alley. He also highlighted important historical landmarks, the accomplishments of the community and the Hogan’s Alley Society, and the ongoing efforts to revive the neighbourhood and restore its spirit.

Through Mr. Mugabo’s presentation, we learned about the deep significance of Hogan’s Alley to Vancouver’s Black community. He explained how Black residents faced discrimination in housing and employment, often being denied jobs in Vancouver, forcing them to go to Hogan’s Alley, the one place where they were accepted. These challenges led Black communities to create strong, supportive spaces of their own, including businesses such as Vie’s Chicken and Steakhouse, which became an important gathering place and symbol of resilience within Hogan’s Alley, as well as a hotspot for many famous jazz bands, musicians, and soul food.

We also learned how the neighbourhood was tragically destroyed in the early 1970s due to city development, specifically the construction of the Vancouver Viaduct, which forced many families and businesses to leave their homes.

Mr. Mugabo highlighted the achievements of the community and the continued work of the Hogan’s Alley Society in preserving this history and advocating for justice and recognition. Overall, the presentation helped us better understand the many challenges Black communities faced in Vancouver as well as the importance of recognizing, honouring, and learning from their contributions. Additionally, our Community Service Club is excited to take a tour of Hogan’s Alley tomorrow, January 16, to further connect with and deepen our understanding of this important history and cause.