Acknowledging and Embracing
BLACK HISTORY Month In
CANADA A Crucial Step
By: Patrina Duhaney, Rachel Van Ee & Keisha Smuk
February is recognized as Black history month and is celebrated each year across Canada. The origins of Black history month dates back to 1926 when first introduced by Carter G. Woodson and other prominent Black Americans. Originally known as Negro History Week or Black History Week, these celebrations were later expanded into Black History Month. Honourable Jean Augustine, the first Black-Canadian woman elected to the House of Commons and Senator Donald Oliver, the first Black Canadian man appointed to the Senate, played a significant role in proclaiming February as Black History Month. On December 14, 1995, Honourable Jean Augustine proposed the motion to recognize February as Black History Month. Senator Donald Oliver put forward a similar motion on February 14, 2008 to formally recognize February as Black History in the Senate, solidifying a long-lasting tradition in Canada. The month of February is set aside to acknowledge and promote the achievements, contributions, and accomplishments of Black people. There is also a heightened awareness of Black people’s historical oppression, marginalization, resistance and ongoing struggles. Despite its historical presence in Canada, Black History Month was only recently recognized in Alberta on February 1, 2017.
9