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Black History Month

Black History Month is a time to learn, reflect, and celebrate the powerful contributions of Black Canadians — past, present, and future. Guided by the 2026 theme, Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations – From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries, this calendar highlights stories, voices, and achievements that have shaped Canada and continue to inspire change.

To support learning and reflection throughout February, we’ve created a 28-day Black History Month calendar with simple, meaningful daily actions. Each day offers an opportunity to listen, watch, read, explore, and reflect. Move through the calendar at your own pace and join us in celebrating Black excellence, resilience, and leadership across generations.

Black History Month is a time to learn about, honour, and celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians — past and present. It’s also a time to listen to Black voices, reflect on Canada’s history, and better understand how Black communities have helped shape the country we live in today.

Black people and their communities have been part of Canada’s story since the early 1600s, yet much of this history has been overlooked or left untold. From early explorers and Loyalist settlers, to soldiers, activists, artists, and community leaders, Black Canadians have played a vital role in building Canada’s cultural diversity, resilience, and prosperity.

In Canada, February is recognized as Black History Month to encourage learning, reflection, and meaningful conversations about both historical and ongoing experiences of Black communities. It’s an opportunity to deepen understanding, challenge stereotypes, and support a more inclusive and informed society.

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This podcast explores how Black History Month began in Canada, why it matters, and how communities can keep learning local, relevant, and meaningful. It reflects on the importance of telling Canadian stories, uplifting Black voices, and creating space for ongoing conversations beyond February.

Listening to Black educators, historians, and community leaders helps deepen understanding of Canada’s history and supports more informed, inclusive communities.

Listen:

Learn about Africville, a historic Black community in Halifax, Nova Scotia, that existed for over 150 years before residents were forcibly displaced in the 1960s. These videos explore community resilience, cultural identity, and the lasting impacts of systemic racism in Canada.

Watch and learn:

Discover the stories of Black settlers, farmers, and families who helped shape Alberta and Western Canada. These videos highlight migration, community building, and overlooked chapters of prairie history.

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Representation shapes how people see themselves and others. These videos and articles explore why representation matters, how systemic barriers impact communities, and why equity and inclusion are essential for a just society.

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Slavery existed in what is now Canada for more than 200 years. These resources explore that history, the people affected, and the long-lasting impacts that continue to shape communities today.

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Learn about Viola Desmond, a civil rights pioneer featured on Canada’s $10 bill, and explore stories of Black Canadians whose leadership, courage, and activism helped shape the nation.

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Discover present‑day Black leaders, artists, educators, and advocates whose work continues to shape communities across Canada.

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Celebrate creativity by exploring the work of Black Canadian artists whose voices and visions continue to shape the arts and culture landscape.

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Discover films and documentaries that highlight Black Canadian stories, creativity, and cultural contributions.

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Explore powerful stories written by Black Canadian authors, including recommendations for children, youth, and adults.

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Food is a powerful way to explore culture and history. Try cooking African‑inspired dishes and learn about culinary traditions from across the continent and diaspora.

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Learn about influential Black Canadians whose stories deserve greater recognition, including Mary Ann Shadd Cary and Lincoln Alexander.

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Learn about the UN’s global effort to promote recognition, justice, and development for people of African descent.

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Explore the lives and achievements of Black Canadian leaders who helped advance equity, justice, and representation.

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Explore the shared histories, identities, and cultural connections between Black and Indigenous communities in Canada.

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Discover Black Canadians who have made groundbreaking contributions to science, technology, and innovation.

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Learn about the Black Loyalists who arrived in Canada following the American Revolution and their role in shaping early communities.

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Learn about the Underground Railroad and Harriet Tubman’s extraordinary leadership and bravery in helping enslaved people reach freedom.

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This episode explores early Black history in Canada and the story of “The Province of Jamaica,” a little-known chapter in Canadian history.

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Celebrate Black Canadian athletes and Olympians whose achievements helped shape Canadian sport history.

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Learn about the Alberta Black Advisory Council and the work they do to advise government and support Black communities across the province.

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Take time to explore and appreciate artwork created by Black Canadian artists.

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Reflect on the meaning and history of the spiritual song “Wade in the Water,” and its significance in Black history and resistance.

Listen to stories, interviews, and reflections from Black Canadians across the Prairies and beyond.

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Support Black-owned businesses in town and across Alberta by exploring local and provincial directories.

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Take a moment to reflect on what kind of community Jasper wants to be — for the people who live, work, and visit here. Consider how inclusion, belonging, and respect shape community well-being.

Try a Black History in Canada quiz, or enjoy printable colouring pages designed for kids.

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