Celebration of Black History Month has been a part of Canadian society since the 1950s. Lieutenant Governor Hal Jackman declared February as Black History Month in Ontario in 1993, and in 1995, the Honorable Jean Augustine made the same declaration in the House of Parliament in Ottawa.
These declarations set the stage for acknowledging the contributions of Black people of African Heritage to the cultural, economic, political and social fabric of Canada dating back to the early 1600s. They have also increased our awareness that people of African and Caribbean Heritage are an integral part of Canadian history.
During the month of February, we deliberately reflect upon the legacy of African history in all its diversity, and we join all Canadians in celebrating Black History Month. During this month we are able to appreciate the significance of African people in world history by centering people of African, Caribbean, and Canadian heritage, famous and not so famous, who have influenced the nation and the world through their ideas, words and actions.
Celebrating Black Excellence - Black Voices
As a continuation of our Celebrating Black Excellence campaign, YRDSB will be celebrating Black History Month with Celebrating Black Excellence - Black Voices.
Celebrating Black Excellence - Black Voices aims to centre and celebrate the Black members of our YRDSB community and share their voices. This Black History Month campaign asks students, staff and community members who identify as Black to consider submitting a short video of themselves, which are currently being shared over the Board’s Instagram.
Visit www.yrdsb.ca/celebratingblackexcellence to learn more.
YRDSB Black History Month Events for Students and Families
Discussion for Families of Black Children on Pathway Opportunities for Students and Families
Thursday, February 8, 2024 at Dr. Bette Stephenson Centre for Leadership and Learning, Richmond Hill
Anti-Blackness in Schools - Virtual Affinity Session for Black Students, Families and Staff
Tuesday, February 27, 2024, 7:00-8:00 p.m., held virtually
Join us for a Virtual Affinity Session for Black Students, Families and Black Staff with Presenters Dr.Joi Spencer and Dr.Kerri Ullucci
Family Cookout with Chef Maxine Knight
Thursday, February 29, 2024, 5:00-6:30 p.m. at Dr. Bette Stephenson Centre for Leaderhship and Learning, Richmond Hill
Journey to the Caribbean in this virtual storytelling with recipe demonstration workshop featuring Chef Maxine Knight, RHN.
Upcoming Community Events
NACCA Black History Month Events
NACCA is hosting multiple events throughout the month of February to celebrate Black History Month.
Flag-Raising Ceremony, February 1, 2024
Black History Month Reception, Art Exhibition & Ujamaa Marketplace, February 3, 2024
Falls Illumination, February 9, 2024
Film Screening “Living in Colour” and Archives of Ontario Presentation with Melissa J. Nelson, February 16, 2024
“Writing our History” with Dr. Natasha Henry-Dixon, February 21, 2024
Art Exhibit and Content, February 3-29, 2924
Elman W. Campbell Museum Exhibit, February 3-29, 2024
Aurora’s Second Annual Black History Gala
Saturday, February 3, 2024 , 6:30 p.m. at Northridge Community Church of The Salvation Army in Aurora
An evening celebrating the rich and vibrant history of the Black community. The Black History Gala will be held at the. This in-person event promises to be a night filled with live cultural performances, inspiring stories, delicious food, and Corporate Sponsor VIP Reception.
Black Youth Gala - “How I Was Raised” (Black York Region Youth)
February 17, 2024, 6:00-10:00 p.m. at JC Banquet Convention Centre, Scarborough
The Black Youth Gala is an event to celebrate their accomplishments. Youth will have the opportunity to receive scholarships for post-secondary. In addition, Black Youth artists and fashion designers will also have the chance to showcase their work in the gallery and opening performance portion of the event.
YRAACC Black History Month Event “Black excellence through mentorship”
Saturday, February 17, 2024, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bill Crothers Secondary School, 44 Main St. Unionville, ON. L3R 2E4
The York Region Alliance of African Canadian Communities (YRAACC) will host its 7th Annual Black History Month (BHM) celebration with keynote speaker, Dr. Bimpe Ayeni. This year's event's theme is Black Excellence through Mentorship! The overarching theme of our annual BHM event is the strengthening and celebrating of Black families in all their diverse compositions and ways of knowing within the context of our Sankofa Mentoring programs. Register Here.