By Dr. Lehana Thabane, Vice President Research, St. Joseph's Health System

The Legacy of Black History Month in Canada

Black history in Canada is a story of resilience, courage, and profound contributions. It is a narrative of perseverance in the face of adversity, stretching back to the early 1600s, when the first recorded Black individuals arrived in what is now Canada. Yet, for too long, these stories were marginalized, their impact overlooked. It was not until the 1970s that the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS) was founded, setting the stage for the official recognition of Black History Month. 

In 1979, the City of Toronto issued Canada’s first proclamation recognizing Black History Month, thanks to the tireless advocacy of Dr. Daniel G. Hill, a distinguished human rights specialist and historian, his wife Dona Hill, and Wilson O. Brooks, a leader in the Anti-Discrimination Committee of Toronto. Their efforts ignited a movement that led to provincial recognition in Nova Scotia (1988), Ontario (1993), and, eventually, national recognition in 1995, when Dr. Jean Augustine, the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament, introduced a motion in the House of Commons to officially designate February as Black History Month. This motion was unanimously passed, marking a critical moment in Canadian history.

More than a decade later, Senator Donald Oliver, the first Black man appointed to the Senate, championed further recognition, leading to the adoption of a national motion in 2008 to formally acknowledge the contributions of Black Canadians throughout history.

The choice of February aligns with the birthdays of two pivotal figures – Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass – whose leadership was instrumental in the fight against slavery. But Black History Month is not merely about reflecting on the past; it is about recognizing the ongoing journey toward justice and equity. It is about ensuring that the voices, contributions, and achievements of Black Canadians remain an integral part of our national dialogue.

Why Black History Month Maters

Black History Month is a time for reflection, celebration, and education. It reminds us that Black history is Canadian history – woven into the very fabric of our country’s identity. It is a time to recognize the triumphs and struggles, to challenge systemic barriers, and to create space for meaningful conversations about equity, justice, and representation.

For us at St. Joseph’s, this month is a call to action. It is a reminder that true inclusivity is not a passive ideal but an active pursuit. It reinforces our commitment to cultural competence, equitable healthcare, and the ongoing work required to address disparities in health outcomes. We recognize that Black communities continue to face disproportionate barriers in healthcare access, and as healthcare providers, researchers, and learners, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to eliminating these inequities.

By celebrating Black history and acknowledging the lived experiences of Black Canadians, we take one step closer to building a healthcare environment that truly serves everyone with dignity, respect, and compassion. But we must go beyond celebration – we must listen, learn, and take action to ensure that our healthcare system is one where all people feel seen, heard, and valued.

Carrying the Spirit Forward

As we conclude this celebration, let us remember that Black history does not begin and end in February. The principles of Black History Month – recognition, appreciation, and justice – must be woven into the fabric of our daily lives. Let us honour this history not just with words but with meaningful actions.

Our foundational principle at the Research Institute – Health and Humanity for All – is more than a statement. It is a commitment. It is, at its core, the spirit of Ubuntu – “I am because you are.” This philosophy reminds us that our collective well-being is bound together, that our progress as a community is measured by how we uplift and support one another.

So today, let us recommit to the values that Black History Month embodies. Let us challenge discrimination wherever we see it. Let us celebrate the rich contributions of Black Canadians every day. Let us continue fostering a workplace and a healthcare system that is truly inclusive, compassionate, and equitable.

Thank you for being part of this celebration and for your dedication to building a better, more just future.

Let’s keep this momentum going, let’s amplify these voices, and let’s move forward together – stronger, wiser, and united.