Black Canadians have helped shape our society as leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, scientists, and when we hear about outstanding achievements of individuals like Rosemary Brown, Willie O’Ree, Drake, Andre de Grasse, Jean Augustine, or Dany Laferrière, we are inspired and feel great pride.

Black History Month provides an opportunity to share and learn about the experiences, contributions, and achievements of Black Canadians. It gives us an opportunity to celebrate these individuals and to learn more about this long and rich history.

The theme of this year’s Black History Month is “Canadians of African Descent: Going forward, guided by the past”. It echoes the theme of the United Nations’ International Decade for People of African Descent: recognition, justice, and development.

While we have accomplished a lot over the past four years together with Black Canadians, we know we have a lot more to do.

We will continue to work, even harder, to achieve real equality for young Black Canadians and everyone in our country.

Quotes

“ As the Prime Minister Justin Trudeau often says, diversity is our strength. I encourage all Canadians to take part in honouring and celebrating the contributions of Black Canadians, this month and all year long.”

– Sonia Sidhu, Member of Parliament for Brampton South