Resources

Black History Resources

February is Black History Month in Canada, a time to recognize and celebrate the stories and achievements of Black Canadians. But, beyond February, it’s important to keep the information and dialogue going all year round.

In our own journey of learning at DIVERSEcity, we are compiling Black History and anti-Black racism resources for our clients, staff and peers.

History

The story of slavery in Canadian history, Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Slavery happened in Canada, too. While Canada played a role in helping Americans escaping slavery via the Underground Railroad, this is only half the story and it’s important to not forget that slavery happened here too. Read more information via the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

Significant Events in Black Canadian History

This Government of Canada online resources encourages Canadians to learn more about Black history in Canada.

Black History in Canada, Canadian Encyclopedia

An account of Black history by Canadian Encyclopedia.

Anti-Slavery Movement in Canada, Library and Archives Canada

In 2001, Library and Archives Canada commemorated the 150th anniversary of the establishment of the Anti-Slavery Society of Canada with an exhibition.

Heritage Minutes, Historica Foundation

Watch these informative Heritage Minutes from the Historica Foundation.

Black History Month websites

Black History Month federal website

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

 

Black Canadian Organizations

British Columbia Black History Awareness Society

The British Columbia Black History Awareness Society (BCBHAS) celebrates the historical and contemporary achievements and contributions of Black communities in British Columbia.

Black Business Association of BC

A non-profit supporting Black entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Black Business and Professional Association

A non-profit, charitable organization that addresses equity and opportunity for the Black community in business, employment, education and economic development.

Black Entrepreneurs of BC

A business hub supporting Black entrepreneurs.

Black Lives Matter – Vancouver Chapter

The Vancouver Chapter of Black Lives Matter in Canada.

Hogan’s Alley Society

The society advocates for Black Vancouverites who have endured the legacies of urban renewal and their erasure from the official historical narrative.

Federation of Black Canadians

A Pan-Canadian body, the Federation of Black Canadians seeks to discuss the opportunities, contributions, and challenges that exist for people of African descent nationally.

National Congress of Black Women Foundation

Championing the interests of Black women in Canada.

Jean Augustine Centre for Young Women’s Empowerment

Empowering young women and girls between the ages of 7-17 years from across Canada

Afro-Canadian Positive Network of BC

A non-profit organization focused on health, emotionally and physically.

Profiles of Black Canadians

Black History Month story: Lincoln Alexander, first Black Canadian to sit in the House of Commons

Black History Month story: Eleanor Collins, Canada’s first lady of jazz

Black History Month story: Harry Jerome, Olympic sprinter

Black History Month story: Jean Augustine, federal member of Parliament 

Noteworthy Historical Figures by Black History Month Canada

This is an evolving list, so please email marketing@dcrs.ca if you have a resource you would like us to add.