Black History Month

February is Black History Month. Black History Month is a time to honour and celebrate all the ways that Black Canadians have contributed to the development of Canada.

The London Cross Cultural Learner Centre honours and celebrates the diverse culture, heritage, and accomplishments of the Black Community—during Black History Month and all year long. We are committed to embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion to uplift the community we serve collectively.

History of Black History Month

The precursor to Black History Month began in the United States in February 1926, when African American scholar Dr. Carter G. Woodson designated the second week of February as a time to celebrate the accomplishments of African Americans. In the 1970s, the United States Government formally celebrated Black History Month through community activities to present a more accurate picture of Black history.

In Canadian History

Black Canadians have shaped Canada’s heritage since the arrival of Mathieu Da Costa, a navigator, and interpreter, in the 1600s. Additionally, many Loyalists who immigrated to Canada after the American Revolution and settled in the Maritimes were of African descent. There is little mention of the fact that African people were once enslaved in the territory that is now Canada, or of how those who fought enslavement helped to lay the foundation of Canada’s diverse society.

In 1995, the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month in Canada, following a motion introduced by Dr. Jean Augustine, the first Black woman elected to the Parliament of Canada.

Ways to Engage

• Check out events to honour and celebrate Black History Month in London: https://lbhcc.ca/events

• Support Black Owned Local Businesses: https://www.seecollective.co/black-owned-businesses