February is Black History Month
Each February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and celebrations that honour the legacy and contributions of Black people in Canada and their communities.
The 2025 theme for Black History Month is: “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations.” This theme acknowledges the diversity of Black Canadians, the importance of Black leadership and the legacy being built for future generations. Black communities are diverse at many levels. Those with a long history in this country have established a legacy for the newer communities. The theme underscores that Black Canadians have a rightful place in the nation's narrative, with over 400 years of historical presence on these Indigenous lands, deserving acknowledgment and celebration.
We invite all Canadians to learn more about Black Canadian communities, and how they continue to help shape Canada.

Noteworthy figures
Read the biographies of notable Black Canadians who helped shape Canada.

Black History Month toolkit
Use our digital toolkit to promote Black History Month all month long. Posters, social media images, a virtual background and much more!
Topics
About Black History Month
Learn how Black History Month came to be recognized in Canada.
Significant events in Black history in Canada
Learn more about the Black experience in Canada through the contributions made by people of African and Caribbean descent to the settlement, growth and story of Canada
Organizations and educational resources on the history of Black communities in Canada
Explore the organizations and resources that promote awareness of Black history in Canada.
The legacy and impact of organizations led by Black women in Canada
Learn about the impact that organizations led by Black women in Canada have had on their communities, and how they advanced equality and human rights.
Addressing anti-Black racism
Discover more resources that are available to combat anti-Black racism and discrimination.
Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025-2034)
Learn more about the United Nations Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025-2034) and the theme “People of African descent: recognition, justice and development.”
Quick facts
Watch videos about Black history
Proud of our History (Transcript)
Wade in the Water (Transcript)
Harriet Tubman: Humanitarian. Leader. Hero. (Transcript)
Construction Battalion (Transcript)
Elijah "The Real" McCoy (Transcript)
Victoria Rifles (Transcript)
The Contribution of Black Soldiers in the Fight for Canada (Transcript)
William Hall (Transcript)
Page details
- Date modified: