February – Black History Month is a remembrance of important people and events in the history of the African Diaspora. It is celebrated annually in the Canada and United States in the month of February, while in the UK it is held in the month of October.
The Black History Month gives us an annual opportunity to remember and appreciate the struggle and the achievements of the black Canadian community in Canada’s history. It was officially recognized by the Parliament of Canada in December 1995 and this year, Black History Month highlights and celebrates the contributions that Canadians of African Descent have made to the building of Canada.
The 2009 theme, Building Canadian Identity, focuses on three elements:
The contribution of the No. 2 Construction Battalion of Pictou, Nova Scotia, during the First World War;
The recognition of black Canadian Olympians a year before the winter games in Vancouver;
And the preservation of the historical contributions of black Canadians to the building of Canada.
Every year Canadians are invited to take part in the events that commemorate the legacy of Black Canadians, past and present, during Black History Month.
This is a time to celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians, who throughout history have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate and prosperous nation we know today. It is also an opportunity for the majority of Canadians to learn about the experiences of Black Canadians in our society, and the vital role this community has played throughout our shared history.
In celebrating of the Black History Month, Canada Post is issuing two stamps. Canada Post will mark the occasion with two stamps celebrating the accomplishment of Abraham Doras Shadd and Rosemary Brown. Rosemary Brown was the first Black woman to be elected to public office. She was also the first woman to run for the leadership of a Canadian federal political party.
Black History Month Festivities and Events
About the No. 2 Construction Battalion
Background – Black History Month
Black Settlement in Early Canada
CIC web site for the Black History Month
Web site for British Columbia Black History Awareness Society