February marks Black History Month in Canada. Each February, Canadians are encouraged to celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians and their communities, who, throughout history, have made significant contributions to making Canada a culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous nation.

Join the City of Quinte West as we celebrate Black History Month by showcasing local, provincial and national resources, activities, and opportunities.

What is Black History Month?

In 1978, the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS) was established. Its founders, including Dr. Daniel G. Hill and Wilson O. Brooks, petitioned the City of Toronto to have February formally proclaimed as Black History Month. In 1979, the first-ever Canadian proclamation was issued by Toronto.

The first Black History Month in Nova Scotia was observed in 1988 and was later renamed African Heritage Month in 1996.

In 1993, the OBHS successfully petitioned Ontario to proclaim February as Black History Month. Following that success, Rosemary Sadlier, president of the OBHS, introduced the idea of having Black History Month recognized across Canada to the Honourable Jean Augustine, the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament.

In December 1995, the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month in Canada following a motion introduced by Dr. Augustine. The House of Commons carried the motion unanimously.

In February 2008, Senator Donald Oliver, the first Black man appointed to the Senate, introduced a motion to recognize the contributions of Black Canadians and to designate 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.

To learn more about Black History Month in Canada, watch the video Black History Month: Exploring the Past and Future of February's annual celebration | CBC Kids News.

Black History Month in Canada

The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, unveiled this year’s theme: “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.” This theme celebrates three decades of Black History Month in Canada and recognizes the enduring legacy of Black Canadians, whose leadership, creativity, innovation and resilience have shaped our past, continue to influence our present, and will inspire future generations.

Black History Month digital toolkit

The Federal Government created a digital toolkit to help Canadians, including partners and stakeholders, promote Black History Month content and activities. Click here to view the digital toolkit.

Ontario's Black Heritage

Learn about Black history in Ontario through a collection of museum sites, web resources, publications, and more with Ontario Heritage Trust.

The Ontario Black History Society

CUPE honours Black History Month

CUPE celebrates Black History Month, highlighting the best of Black History and culture while honouring the ancestors and leaders of Black communities, their accomplishments, and their continued fight for liberation. This year, CUPE honours Carol Wall. Carol Wall was a fearless Black feminist and union leader. She dedicated her life to dismantling barriers, confronting inequality, and inspiring people to engage in courageous, transformative conversations.

Celebrating Black History Month in Quinte West

Black History Month reading list

Prepare your February reading list with the help of the Quinte West, Brighton, and Belleville public libraries.

Libraries throughout the Quinte Region are showcasing Black History Month displays, reading lists, and online content featuring Black authors, content creators, and subject matter experts.

Visit your local library to learn more.

Read the Hastings Prince Edward Public Health Unit statement on the importance of recognizing Black History Month and working together to address racism while building the foundation of a supportive and inclusive community.

Third Annual Joy & Wellness Black History Month Family Friendly Event

Join this family-friendly event at These 4 Walls, showcasing the amazing artwork of Liz Hymans. It will feature dynamic live performances and interactive creative workstations for all ages. Come experience the rich history, vibrant culture, and inspiring creativity that connects us across yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

Quinte Local Immigration Partnership

The Quinte Local Immigration Partnership (QLIP) is one of 60 LIPs across Ontario designed to provide a collaborative framework to facilitate the development and implementation of sustainable solutions for the successful integration of newcomers to Ontario that are local and regional in scope. The QLIP hosts an Anti-Racism Committee, which provides information on initiatives addressing racism issues in our community.