Today, Mayor Olivia Chow proclaimed February as Black History Month, launching the City of Toronto’s annual celebration of Black Canadians’ heritage, traditions and culture. Read the full proclamation on the City’s webpage.
Black History Month recognizes the contributions of Black Canadians to education, medicine, art, culture, public service, economic development, politics, human rights and more in Toronto.
2024 marks 45 years since Toronto became the first municipality in Canada to proclaim Black History Month through the efforts of many individuals and organizations such as the Ontario Black History Society.
In addition to the month-long observance, the City works throughout the year on the goals defined by the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism, which was endorsed by City Council in 2017 and responds to the priorities identified by Toronto’s diverse Black communities.
In 2019, the City officially adopted the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent, which ends this year. The City has continued to centre and amplify its work through the action plan to align with the three themes of the Decade: Recognition, Development and Justice. Information on the action plan is available on the City’s Confronting Anti-Black Racism webpage.
Black History Month 2024 Events and Activities
This year, residents and visitors are invited to participate in a wide range of Black History Month events including storytelling and poetry readings, Black vendors markets, exhibitions, history and art tours and musical performances.
These include:
A comprehensive list of in-person and online events and activities led by Toronto History Museums, Cultural Centres, Toronto Public Library and community groups – including what to expect and schedules – can be found on the City’s Black History Month webpage.
Quotes:
“It is an honour to proclaim Black History Month through February in Toronto. This city’s story has been and continues to be written by many Black Canadians from all walks of life. Throughout the year and especially this month, I encourage Torontonians to learn about the history and ongoing contributions of Black changemakers. At the same time, let us also take a moment to acknowledge and stand up against systemic anti-Black racism and oppression, which has absolutely no place in our communities.”
– Mayor Olivia Chow
“During Black History Month, and all year long, I invite Torontonians to explore the many opportunities to learn about and celebrate Black history and contributions of Black leaders in our city. As we mark 45 years of Black History Month in Toronto, I want to recognize the enduring work of the Ontario Black History Society and many others who are committed to remembering, documenting, and honouring Black history.”
– Councillor Alejandra Bravo (Davenport), Chair of the Economic and Community Development Committee
“Black History Month serves as a crucial juncture for the Black Canadians summed up in one word, ‘Sankofa’. It is a time to reflect on our history, celebrate our remarkable achievements, and to look forward to the opportunities yet untapped. The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism has been our guiding light in empowering the diverse Black communities across Toronto. It has paved the way for revitalizing public spaces, economic empowerment, facilitating mentorship and safeguarding the well-being and interests of Black people in Toronto. As we celebrate this month, let’s commit to keeping the spirit of ‘Sankofa’ alive and maintain the momentum of this significant work in the days and future years to come.”
– Councillor Chris Moise (Toronto Centre), Chair of the Confronting Anti-Black Racism Advisory Committee
Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.