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 Organizations in BC
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.
Black Women Connect
A collective of women who come together to inspire, empower, leverage our strengths and embrace our diverse experiences.
BC Community Alliance
Black-led, community-based organization dedicated to addressing the structural inequities created by racism, especially anti-Black racism, within education settings in British Columbia.
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.
African Descent Society BC
A non-profit organization that fosters, empowers and increases education, economic development and tolerance for the preservation and promotion of Black Canadian Heritage Culture conservation, customs, values, history, arts, heritage and a way of life in Vancouver and BC.
Afro-Canadian Positive Network of BC
A non-profit organization focused on health, emotionally and physically.
The Black Arts Centre
A Black youth owned and operated gallery and community site.
Yoruba Social and Cultural Association of BC
A Black organization established in 1998 to cater for the needs of the minority ethnic group of Yoruba origin living in BC.
National Organizations
Black Health Alliance
A community-led registered charity working to improve the health and well-being of Black communities in Canada.
Black Youth Helpline
A national helpline for Canadian youth and families. Call toll free 1-833-294-8650 everyday 9 am to 10 pm (EST); info@blackyouth.ca
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.
Jean Augustine Centre for Young Women’s Empowerment
Empowering young women and girls between the ages of 7-17 years from across Canada.
National Congress of Black Women Foundation
Championing the interests of Black women in Canada.
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.