February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day

February 28, 2022 · Moncton, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), issued the following statement in recognition of Black History Month:

“Today, we come to the end of Black History Month—a period for every Canadian to honour and celebrate the legacies, achievements and contributions of Black Canadians throughout history who have helped make Canada what it is today: a culturally diverse, compassionate and prosperous nation.

“This year’s theme – February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day – reminded us to recognize and reflect on the remarkable accomplishments and lived experiences of Black Canadians – past and present – not only in February, but all year long.

“Black Canadians have been part of the social and economic fabric of Atlantic Canada for as long as North America has been colonized. They have been shaping our region’s heritage and identity since the arrival of Mathieu Da Costa, a Mi’kmaq interpreter who arrived in 1604, in what is now known as Nova Scotia.

“We need to support and celebrate their contributions, and find ways to reduce barriers and ensure equitable access to the many economic opportunities of our region.

“I am particularly proud to highlight the Black Business Initiative (BBI), which has been a strong steward for over 25 years, helping Black business owners grow as entrepreneurs and contributors of the Atlantic economy. With its services now offered across all Atlantic Canada, the BBI provides entrepreneurship training, business and skills development, and enables access to networks, markets, supply chains, capital and other resources. BBI supports Black individuals and communities to diversify their economic base, enabling them to gain long-term prosperity and sustainability.

“As Minister responsible for ACOA, I am committed to helping build an innovative, resilient and inclusive economy that works for everyone.”