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.
YRDSB Black History Month Events for Students and Families
Students, families and staff you are invited to an inspiring evening as we celebrate Black History Month!
Please join us to celebrate the rich history and contributions of the Black Community while creating meaningful connections and memories together.
Monday, February 3, 2025 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Dr. J.M. Denison H.S.
Wednesday, February 12, 2025 from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Bill Hogarth S.S.
Wednesday, February 19, 2025 from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Alexander Mackenzie H.S.
Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Tommy Douglas S.S.
Upcoming Community Events
Aurora Black Community (ABC)
Allyship in Action
The Allyship in Action program is designed to provide allies with a safe, judgment-free space to ask honest, uncomfortable, or uncertain questions about the Aurora Black Community (ABC), anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Please register.
Date: Multiple Dates starting January 31, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m
Location: Virtual Zoom meeting
Black History Flag Raising Celebration
Join ABC & The Town of Aurora as they kick off Black History Month with their annual Black History Flag Raising Celebration. Please register.
Date: Friday, February 1, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm-8:00 p.m.
Location: 100 John West Way, Aurora
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
Black History Month reception, Art Exhibition & Ujamaa Marketplace
Join NACCA as they kick off Black History Month with the annual reception emceed by Emily Mills, award-winning founder of How She Hustles, a Toronto-based network that connects diverse women through digital content and special events. Please register.
Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m -5:00 p.m.
Location: Newmarket Old Town Hall, 460 Botsford Street, Newmarket
Flag-raising Ceremony
The Pan-African Flag will be raised at the Municipal Offices to commemorate Black History Month. This ceremony celebrates the rich heritage, culture and invaluable contributions of people of African descent to our community. Please register.
Date: Monday, February 3, 2025
Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Location: Municipal Offices, 395 Mulock Drive, Newmarket
Community Vision Board Experience - Envision Your Future: A Vision Board Experience for Growth and Community
Please join NACCA this Black History Month for a powerful month-long Vision Board experience at Newmarket Public Library and Old Town Hall’s Community Gallery located behind Serpa Gallery on the ground floor. For more information and to register.
Date: February 1 to February 28, 2025
Location: Newmarket Public Library, 438 Park Avenue/Community Gallery at Old Town Hall, 460 Botsford Street
Black History Month Art Gallery Exhibit
Stop by the Old Town Hall and/or the Elman W. Campbell Museum for an inspiring gallery exhibition celebrating Black History Month 2025. Please book a tour.