Black History Month 2026 – Listening, Learning, and Honouring Black Canadians

Black History Month is not a marketing moment. It is a time for genuine reflection, acknowledgement, and responsibility.

Every February, Canadians recognize the history, resilience, and achievements of Black communities who have shaped this country in ways that are both profound and often untold. 2026 marks an important milestone anniversary as well. This year’s theme is “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations – From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries”. But meaningful recognition requires more than celebration. It requires listening. It requires learning. And it requires honesty about our shared history.

The Canadian Story – Often Overlooked

Black history in Canada did not begin 30 years ago. It stretches back more than 400 years.

Many Canadians are surprised to learn that slavery existed on our side of the border as well. Enslaved Africans were brought to New France in the 1600s, and slavery continued under both French and British rule. While Canada later became known as a destination along the Underground Railroad, that is only part of the story.

In 1995, the Honourable Jean Augustine successfully introduced a motion in Parliament to officially recognize Black History Month in Canada. Her leadership ensured that the contributions and experiences of Black Canadians would no longer be sidelined in national conversations.

Recognition matters. Not because it absolves the past, but because it acknowledges it.

Courage That Changed a Nation

While not as widely known as American civil rights activist Rosa Parks, Canada’s civil rights history includes its own powerful acts of courage.

In 1946, Viola Desmond refused to leave a whites-only section of a movie theatre in Nova Scotia. Her arrest became a defining moment in the fight against racial segregation in Canada.

In 1968, Lincoln Alexander broke barriers as Canada’s first Black Member of Parliament and later served as Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.

In 2005, Michaëlle Jean became Canada’s 27th Governor General, representing the country on the world stage.

These individuals played vital roles in driving positive change, but countless others – teachers, nurses, tradespeople, community leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs – have strengthened their communities without national headlines. Black history is not only about historic “firsts.” It is about everyday excellence and perseverance.

The Role of Education

For generations, Black Canadians faced systemic barriers in schooling, employment, and professional advancement. Segregated schools existed in parts of Canada well into the 20th century. Access to opportunity was not equal. 

Education has long been both a battleground and a pathway. Black History Month reminds us that access to education should never be taken for granted. It also challenges institutions to examine whether they are truly inclusive – not just in policy, but in practice.

At ABM College, Black History Month is an opportunity for reflection. It is a reminder that classrooms should be spaces where every student feels respected, heard, and supported. Diversity in learning environments strengthens discussion, broadens understanding, and prepares graduates to work in a multicultural society and an international community.

A Changing Global Climate – And Canada’s Responsibility

We cannot discuss inclusion and equity without acknowledging the broader global context.

In recent years, political rhetoric and policy shifts in the United States – particularly during the current “presidency” – have reflected a noticeable rise in polarization, nationalist sentiment, and the normalization of divisive language around race, immigration, and identity. These shifts have had ripple effects far beyond American borders.

When influential nations appear to retreat from commitments to equity, diversity, and civil rights, it sends a message. It emboldens attitudes that many believed were being steadily dismantled. This is precisely why Canada must be deliberate in its response.

Leadership is not about superiority. It is about responsibility. If other democracies are struggling with division, Canada has an opportunity – and an obligation – to reaffirm its commitment to inclusion, multiculturalism, and human dignity. That does not mean claiming moral perfection. It means continuing the work here at home with seriousness and integrity.

Black History Month is not only about looking backward. It is about deciding who we intend to be moving forward.

Moving From Awareness to Action

In an age of social media fluff and limited attention spans, recognition without action is hollow. Truly honouring Black history means:

• Confronting uncomfortable truths about Canada’s past
• Supporting equitable policies and practices
• Amplifying Black voices in meaningful ways
• Creating environments where discrimination is not tolerated

It also means understanding that Black history is not confined to February. It is an important piece of Canadian history – year-round.

A Month of Responsibility

Black History Month is not about symbolic gestures. It is about responsibility.

• Responsibility to learn the fuller story of this country.
• Responsibility to acknowledge injustice where it existed – and where it persists.
• Responsibility to build communities grounded in dignity and respect.

At ABM College, we recognize that education carries influence. With that influence comes accountability – to foster inclusion, to encourage understanding, and to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed without barriers rooted in bias.

Black History Month asks us to look backward with honesty and forward with purpose.

Honouring history is an act of respect, learning from it is an act of growth, and acting on it is an act of responsibility. Diversity and inclusion are and have always been a sign of strength.

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