Every February, Canadians across the country come together to celebrate Black History Month. This is a powerful time to reflect on and honor the incredible contributions of Black communities throughout Canada. It’s a month to listen to inspiring stories, explore rich histories, and celebrate the ongoing impact Black Canadians continue to have on our society.
This year’s 2024 theme, “Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; A Future to Build,” beautifully captures both the achievements of Black Canadians in the past and present, while looking forward to a future full of opportunity and progress. It’s a reminder of the strength, resilience, and brilliance that have shaped and continue to shape our nation.
This theme is especially significant as it coincides with the 10th year of the International Decade for People of African Descent. This global initiative stresses the importance of promoting and protecting the human rights of people of African descent, reminding us all that their rights must not only be celebrated but actively upheld.
This year’s theme, "Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations," was unveiled on January 21st, which marks Lincoln Alexander Day. This day honors The Honourable Lincoln MacCauley Alexander, the 24th Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and the first Black Canadian to be elected to the House of Commons. The theme this year highlights the leadership and strength of Black Canadians, both past and present, while calling on us to embrace and uplift the next generation of leaders, activists, and changemakers.
While Black History Month is a time of celebration, it’s also an important moment to reflect on the challenges that continue to affect Black Canadians today. Despite the progress we’ve made, systemic barriers, racism, and discrimination still impact the lives of many in Black communities. This month serves as a reminder to not only recognize those struggles but to commit to standing up against injustice and working towards a more inclusive future.
Black History Month isn’t just for Black Canadians, it’s a time for all of us, regardless of background, to learn more, reflect, and be part of something bigger. It’s a chance to celebrate the achievements of Black Canadians, past and present, and to support the ongoing efforts to create a future where all communities are treated with dignity, respect, and equality.
Whether you're participating in events, reading a new book, attending a local gathering, or simply taking time to reflect, we invite everyone across Canada to join in celebrating the incredible legacy of Black communities and to help build a brighter future for all.
To learn more about Black History Month, see our reading list here:
February is Black History Month, a time to honour and celebrate the diversity, history and culture of Black people in Canada and to acknowledge the many contributions of Black communities from across the country.
We also have some exciting programs coming up to help celebrate Black History Month at MPL. Click here to see more.
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