Black History is Canadian History / Black Futures Shape Our Tomorrow
When we celebrate Black History Month, we aren’t just recognizing Black history—we are celebrating Canadian history. Black communities have played a vital role in shaping our nation, contributing to its growth, culture, and fight for justice. However, Black history is not only about the past; it is also about the present and future. The inclusion of Black Futures in Black History Month encourages us to celebrate Black creativity, innovation, and excellence while envisioning a future rooted in equity and opportunity.
Black history in Canada dates back over 400 years, yet it is often overlooked. The first recorded presence of Black people in Canada was in the early 1600s, when enslaved Africans were forcibly brought to New France. For over 200 years, slavery was legal in Canada, with Black and Indigenous peoples subjected to forced labor and denied basic freedoms. Despite this reality, Black communities persisted and fought for their liberation. In the 19th century, thousands of enslaved Black individuals sought freedom through the Underground Railroad, making Canada a beacon of hope. Black communities like Birchtown, Nova Scotia, home to Black Loyalists, and Amber Valley, Alberta, settled by Black pioneers, demonstrate the resilience and strength of Black Canadians in the face of adversity. Viola Desmond’s defiance against segregation in Nova Scotia and Harriet Tubman’s courage in guiding freedom-seekers to Canada are testaments to the role Black Canadians have played in shaping civil rights and justice in this country. However, alongside these achievements, systemic barriers persisted. Schools in Nova Scotia remained segregated until 1964, and entire Black communities, such as Africville in Halifax, were forcibly displaced, erasing vibrant neighborhoods and histories.
At QCH, we recognize that Black history must be acknowledged and celebrated year-round. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion extends beyond February as we continue to address systemic barriers that disproportionately impact Black communities. We are actively working to create culturally safe and inclusive spaces for patients, families, and staff.
By connecting the past, present, and future, Black Futures highlights resilience, centers joy, and advocates for systemic change, ensuring Black history is not just remembered but actively built upon for a more equitable tomorrow.
What’s below:
Origins of Black History / Black Futures Month
The Importance Black History / Futures Month
QCH Initiatives
Get Involved: Celebrate, Support, and Take Action
Expand Your Knowledge: Learn, Reflect, and Take Action
Support Resources: Access Help and Well-Being
Origins of Black History / Black Futures Month
The celebration of Black History Month traces back to 1926, when U.S. historian Carter G. Woodson introduced Negro History Week to highlight Black achievements and history, which had long been ignored. The week was chosen to coincide with the birthdates of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, two figures associated with Black liberation. In 1976, this week expanded into Black History Month in the United States.
In Canada, The Honourable Jean Augustine, the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament, introduced a motion in 1995 to officially recognize February as Black History Month. The motion was unanimously approved by the House of Commons. In 2008, Senator Donald Oliver, the first Black man appointed to the Senate, introduced a motion that reaffirmed Black History Month and formally recognized the contributions of Black Canadians, completing Parliament’s recognition of this national observance.
The Importance of Celebrating Black History and Black Futures Year-Round
Black History Month is essential because it highlights the often-overlooked contributions, struggles, and achievements of Black Canadians. It is an opportunity to recognize the vital role Black communities have played in shaping Canada’s social, cultural, political, and economic landscape.
While this month is a time to engage with Black histories, including the legacies of slavery and racism, it is also a time to highlight Black excellence, leadership, and innovation. Black History Month is not just about looking back—it is also about the ongoing fight against anti-Black racism and the importance of building a more equitable future for everyone in Canada.
QCH Initiatives
At QCH, we are committed to anti-racism, which goes beyond simply being "not racist"—it requires intentional action to dismantle systemic barriers. Our Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) Strategy prioritizes Anti-Racism as one of six core strategic action areas. This includes concrete steps to advance justice, equity, and inclusivity—particularly in healthcare, where racial disparities impact Black and racialized communities.
As part of our EDIB Strategy, QCH is committed to:
Refreshing the QCH Anti-Racism Commitment Statement.
Updating the QCH Anti-Discrimination Policy Framework.
Developing and implementing mandatory Anti-Racism and Cultural Safety training.
Implementing processes, policies, and interventions that promote fair access to care and equitable outcomes.
As a healthcare institution, we have a responsibility to take meaningful and long-lasting actions that benefit our staff, patients, families, and communities. That is why we are actively working to address systemic racism and create a more equitable healthcare environment for all.
Get Involved: Celebrate, Support, and Take Action
Black History / Black Futures Month is more than a time of reflection—it’s an opportunity to take meaningful action. Here’s how you can get involved and make a lasting impact:
Attend events & learn more:
Immerse yourself in Black history, culture, and excellence by attending local events and educational sessions. Check out these opportunities:
Support Black-owned businesses:
Put your dollars where your values are! Supporting Black-owned businesses strengthens economic empowerment and uplifts the community. Explore local Black-owned shops, restaurants, and services:
Volunteer & give back:
Your time and donations can make a real difference. Get involved with organizations that uplift Black communities:
Make it a year-round commitment:
Black history and futures should be recognized beyond February. Commit to sustained action:
Advocate for the inclusion of Black voices in decision-making all year.
Continue learning about Black history and racial justice.
Challenge systemic barriers and amplify Black perspectives in your workplace and community.
Let’s move beyond celebration and into action—because Black history is Canadian history, and Black futures shape our tomorrow.
Expand Your Knowledge: Learn, Reflect, and Take Action
Deepen your understanding of Black history, culture, and contributions in Canada. Whether you're looking for historical insights, community resources, or powerful stories, these sources offer valuable perspectives:
Explore Black history & contributions:
Dive into health & equity resources:
Understand the numbers:
Read & amplify Black Canadian authors:
Looking for powerful voices in fiction, non-fiction, and poetry? Start here:
Knowledge is power. Take time to educate yourself, share what you learn, and keep the conversation going—because Black history and futures deserve recognition every day.
Support Resources: Access Help and Well-Being
If you or someone you know is seeking support, these resources are dedicated to improving the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of individuals and communities:
Wellness and mental health support:
Mental health support for Ottawa region:
Crisis support services:
These resources offer vital support, whether you’re in need of immediate assistance or looking to connect with ongoing mental health services. Taking care of yourself and your community is key—reach out for help whenever you need it.