The Township of Wilmot Celebrates Black History Month

Baden, ON - Every February, Canadians across the country participate in Black History Month events and educational opportunities that explore the experiences and celebrate the accomplishments and legacy of Black Canadians across Canada.

The commemoration of Black History Month dates to 1926, when Harvard-educated African American historian Carter G. Woodson proposed setting aside a time devoted to honour the accomplishments of people of African Americans and to heighten awareness of Black history in the United States. This led to the establishment of Negro History Week in 1926. The celebration of Black history in Canada began shortly thereafter. During the early 1970s, the week became known as Black History Week and was expanded into Black History Month in 1976. In December 1995, the House of Commons officially and unanimously recognized February as Black History Month in Canada following a motion introduced by the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament, the Honourable Jean Augustine.

Marking the 28th official Black History Month; The 2023 theme is “Ours to Tell," encouraging the sharing of many stories of Black Canadians' success, sacrifice, and triumph like Lincoln Alexander. A leader in the fight for racial equity, Alexander was the first Black member of Parliament in 1968. Sharing stories such as these, helps inspire Canadians to build a more equitable society that leaves no one behind.

“Black History Month is an opportunity for us to recognize and celebrate, the contributions Black Canadians make to our communities’ quality of life”, said Township of Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen. “People of African and Caribbean descent have greatly contributed to the cultural, economic, political and social development of communities across the country and Black History Month is a time to learn more about their stories.”

We have provided links to educational information and local events at wilmot.ca/BlackHistoryMonth to help you learn more about Black History in Waterloo Region and across the country. Throughout the month of February, we will also be sharing the stories of influential Black Canadians on the Township of Wilmot’s Facebook and Twitter platforms.

Media contact:
Corporate Communications | Office of the Chief Administrative Officer
Township of Wilmot | 519-634-8444 | communications@wilmot.ca