Canada kicked off its 30th Black History Month on February 1 under the theme “Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations – From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.”
Prime Minister Carney emphasized the ongoing contributions of Black Canadians, saying, “Black Canadians have played a vital role in building this nation, leading global companies that drive investment into Canada and creating dynamic local businesses and institutions that build strong communities. Canada’s new government is committed to removing barriers that prevent Black Canadians from starting businesses. To that end, in October 2025, we provided $189 million to renew the Black Entrepreneurship Program – ensuring continued access to capital, resources, and mentorship so Black-owned businesses can start, scale, and create well-paying new careers. Since its launch, the program has supported more than 24,000 Black entrepreneurs, helping drive innovation and economic growth across Canada.”
He added, “While we advance economic inclusion, we are also building stronger communities by removing barriers to care. Canada’s new government is supporting community-based, Black-led initiatives that support the mental health and well-being of Black Canadians. Building Canada strong means ensuring everyone can contribute to and share in our country’s success. This Black History Month, we affirm our responsibility to back words with action, deliver opportunity, and build a country where racism has no place. Together, we are building a fairer and more just country – one that empowers Black Canadians to shape its future.”
In Ontario, Premier Doug Ford issued a statement recognizing the integral role of the province’s Black community. “Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the many ways Ontario’s Black community has helped strengthen our province and our country. From arts and culture to business, public service, sports and community leadership, the Black community’s legacy of perseverance and resilience is integral to the fabric of Ontario. Black History Month is also a chance to learn about the history and experiences of Black Canadians and stand together against discrimination and racism in all its forms,” he said. Ford noted new initiatives, including investments in programs supporting Black youth, entrepreneurs and newcomers, and changes to the school curriculum starting September 2026 that will highlight the contributions of Black Canadians. “This month and every month, I encourage everyone in our province to take time to learn about and celebrate the lasting contributions of Ontario’s Black community.”
Schools across the country are also participating in Black History Month events and celebrations.
In the St. Clair Catholic District School Board, students and staff will engage in activities that honour the legacy and contributions of Black Canadians. Lisa Demers, Director of Education, said, “Black History Month invites us to honour the brilliance, faith, courage, and leadership of Black Canadians who have helped shape our country and our communities. As a Catholic school board, we also take this time to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of Black staff and students within St. Clair Catholic, whose gifts, voices, and leadership enrich our schools each day. This month calls our students to live out the Gospel values of dignity, justice, and love for one another, while embracing the diversity that reflects God’s beautiful creation.”
At St. Patrick’s Catholic High School in Sarnia, morning announcements will feature daily segments highlighting inspiring Black Canadians, while posters around the school will showcase Black excellence and achievement. Ursuline College Chatham is planning a panel discussion with local Black professionals, organized by Black Graduation Coach Pelumi Akinyemi, to provide students with opportunities to hear personal stories and engage in discussion. Across elementary schools in the district, students will take part in age-appropriate activities and in-person or virtual tours of local heritage sites, including the Buxton National Historic Site and Museum and the Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History.
The Lambton Kent District School Board emphasized that Black history and culture are not limited to February. “Black history, Black excellence, and Black culture are not ‘special topics’ reserved for a few weeks each year. They are an essential part of the stories, voices, and identities that shape our classrooms, our school communities, and our understanding of the world,” the board said. The district also highlighted recent observances, including Lincoln Alexander Day on January 21 and UNESCO’s World Day for African and Afrodescendant Culture on January 24.
“Honouring Lincoln Alexander’s legacy and celebrating African and Afrodescendant cultures reminds us that progress is ongoing. Our district continues to learn, grow, and take meaningful steps toward equity — not as a checklist, but as a collective responsibility,” the statement said. “Black history is Canadian history. Black culture is world culture. Black excellence is radiating through our district—every day.”
As Canada marks three decades of Black History Month, leaders and educators across the country are reflecting on the past, celebrating the present, and supporting a future where Black Canadians continue to shape the nation’s cultural, political, and economic landscape.
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