Since 1996, the Government of Canada’s annual Black History Month campaign encourages people of all backgrounds to learn more about Black history in Canada.
“The Future is Now” is a chance to celebrate and acknowledge the transformative work that Black Canadians and their communities are doing now.
In February 2008, Senator Donald Oliver, the first Black man appointed to the Senate, introduced the Motion to Recognize Contributions of Black Canadians and February as Black History Month. It received unanimous approval and was adopted on March 4, 2008. The adoption of this motion completed Canada’s parliamentary position on Black History Month.
Senator Donald Oliver said the following:
"Black History Month in Canada is essential since it educates Canadians. Few Canadians know that slavery once existed in Canada, or that many of the British Loyalists who came here after the American Revolution were Black. They do not know that segregation was accepted in Canada well into the 1960s. It is a reminder to all Canadians that racism is not a matter just of the past.
Today, racism manifests itself in the racially unequal workforce, taking the shape of unequal income, discriminatory remarks and the glass ceiling. In light of these challenges, Black History Month is essential to maintain and strengthen the Black community. The narratives of exceptional individuals, like Portia White, Dr. William P. Oliver and so many others, are testimonials of our strength."
To read more and educate yourself on the importance of Black History Month in Canada, click here to go
to to Government of Canada website.