February is Black History Month!

Each February, we are proud to honour Black History Month, an opportunity to recognize the histories and achievements of Black Canadians and communities.

Chatham-Kent is home to some of the most successful Black settlements in Canadian history, shaping the Chatham-Kent, and Canada, we know today. In Chatham-Kent, three historic sites are dedicated to sharing these local histories, Buxton National Historic Site & Museum, The Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum, and The Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History.

How is Black History Month being honoured In Chatham-Kent?

Learn about Black History Month, local historical sites, and events on the Visit CK website.

Visit CK Museums to learn about the exhibit Let Us March on Til Victory is Won: The Struggle for Racial Equity in Chatham-Kent and Ontario, available online or as a travelling exhibit throughout the year.

Why do we honour Black History Month?

Although Black communities have been an important part of Canada’s heritage, the role of Black individuals and communities is often excluded from mainstream recounting of Canadian history. This shared history is important all year, but having a designated Black History Month ensures these stories are told. Black History Month highlights the accomplishments of Black community members and the continued struggles for liberation, equity, and justice.

How was Black History Month established?

In Canada, Black History Month was first proclaimed in 1978 by the City of Toronto as a result of advocacy by the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS), including Dr. Daniel G. Hill and Wilson O. Brooks.

In 1993, the OBHS successfully filed a petition in Ontario to proclaim February as Black History Month. Following that success, Rosemary Sadlier, president of the OBHS, introduced the idea of having Black History Month recognized across Canada to the Honourable Jean Augustine, the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament.

In December 1995, the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month in Canada following a motion introduced by Dr. Augustine. The House of Commons carried the motion unanimously.

In February 2008, Senator Donald Oliver, the first Black man appointed to the Senate, introduced the Motion to Recognize Contributions of Black Canadians and February as Black History Month. It received unanimous approval and was adopted on March 4, 2008. The adoption of this motion completed Canada’s parliamentary position on Black History Month.