During Black History Month, Canadians celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate and prosperous nation it is today.
Black History Month in Canada Timeline
In Canada, Black History celebrations first began in 1950 when the Canadian Negro Women’s Association began organizing events.
However, it was not until 1978 when Toronto first recognized February as Black History Month, in large part due to the efforts of the Ontario Black History Society led by Rosemary Sadler and others.
In 1995, the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month in Canada, following a motion introduced by the first Black Canadian Women elected to Parliament, Jean Augustine.
In 2008, Senator Donald Oliver (the first Black man appointed to the Senate) introduced a motion to formally recognize February as Black History Month in Canada.
Source: The Waterloo Chronicle
Wondering what you can do to authentically engage with Black history this year? Check out this selection of upcoming local events:
- KW Multicultural Centre – “The Hymn to Freedom Project”
- Rhythm & Blues: Celebrating Black History Month in Cambridge