by Jacqueline Atkinson
Though only recently recognized by Canadian legislation, February marks an important time to recognize the historical achievements and contributions Black Canadians have made in our society. The genesis of Black History Month comes from the mid 1920s Negro History Week, which paid homage to Black American historical contributions.
Though the United States government only formally recognized this observance (effectively expanding it to Black History Month) in 1976, it wasn’t until as recently as 1995 that the Canadian House of Commons formally recognized this month of observance, followed by the Senate’s formal acknowledgement in 2008.
Since then, while reference to February as Black History Month has been consistent in Canada, action to engage citizens and communities on behalf of Black History Month is incredibly lacking.
The federal government’s website only has a page containing some quick facts about the history of Black Canadians, a virtual museum, a prime ministerial statement acknowledging Black History Month and a list of local organizations promoting activities throughout the month. There is no mention of federally-sponsored events or government intent to participate in any of the referenced independent events throughout the country in 2017.
The City of Ottawa website is far less inspiring with only a short article listing a few local Black History Month events, all of which are hosted by independent organizations. If you dig deep enough, Justin Trudeau’s participation in the 2016 Black History Month roundtable can be uncovered but it seems Canada’s 150th celebrations have sadly taken priority over participation in 2017’s Black History Month.
While our governments claim to acknowledge the fundamental role played by Black Canadians in shaping Canadian society, they continuously fall short of fully embracing Black History Month.
Consequently, an unfortunate sentiment exists that this celebratory month is only intended for Black Canadians, since it is only Black Canadians who seem to be actively promoting it. Rather, Black History Month ought to be a time when all Canadians engage in learning about Black history, all the while embracing black communities and their wonderfully unique cultures which are simply vital for our celebrated Canadian mosaic.
This shift from some to all in Black History Month participation could begin with government participation. By playing a primary role in the organization of events, governments at all levels help shine the spotlight on the historical achievements of a community often wrongly neglected in Canadian society.
Side Bar
Black History Ottawa, a registered Canadian charity, thankfully offers plenty of information regarding what is happening for Black History Month in the city. Some upcoming events include:
- The “Kallaloo” Afro-Caribbean Dance Festival; three workshops celebrating the rhythms and movement of Africa and the Caribbean. Feb. 25, 9:30am–2:30pm at the Hintonburg Community Centre, 1064 Wellington Street West.
- Black Women Who Tea; a tea room event supporting entrepreneurship among local Black women. Feb. 25, 6:30pm.
- Project: Humanity presents Freedom Singer; this concert features JUNO nominated freedom singer Khari Wendell McClelland, whose artistry is inspired by the music carried by fugitive slaves who traveled the Underground Railroad into Canada. Feb. 28, 8pm at Arts Court Theatre, 2 Daly Ave.
More information and a list of further events can be found at blackhistoryottawa.weebly.com.
This article first appeared in Vol. 9, No. 5 (February/March 2017).
