For many countries, including Canada and the United States, the month of February marks Black History Month, offering us a chance to remember and honour the people of colour, and specifically Black people, who have played a crucial part in Canadian history.
From musicians, actors and athletes, to politicians, activists, academics and more, there’s lots to celebrate – and to reflect on – this month. However, it wasn’t always this way. Despite the fact that Black people have been in Canada since the 1600s, the first official Black History Month was held just over forty years ago, initiated by a group of Black Canadians in Toronto.
The Ontario Black History Society was formed in 1978, where they put forward the motion to the City of Toronto that officially proclaimed February as Black History Month. The movement continued across the other provinces, and by 1988, Black History Month was celebrated in Nova Scotia as well. However, it was not until February 1996 that Black History Month became a national observance. In 2008, February was officially recognized as Black History Month in Canada.
The history of Black Canadians is often forgotten, or completely unknown by the majority of Canadians. Black History Month is a time to recognize these Canadians and their stories Take time this month to read about the history of Black communities in Canada and celebrate how they’ve shaped our history and culture.
If you’re looking for ways to dive into Black history and explore the work of Black Canadians, both this month and every month, check out these resources!
- The Future Is Now: Black History Month in Canada, by Canadian Heritage and the Government of Canada
- Black Voices: Indigo’s Black History Month Reading List
- Black Communities in Canada – A Rich History: The National Film Board of Canada’s Black History Month Watchlist