The Government of Canada theme for Black History Month 2022:

"February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day."

On February 17th, Canadian Heritage, is hosting a Black History Month virtual celebration on their Facebook Live. This event highlighting this year's theme will feature performances, tributes, interviews and much more!

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The Ontario Human Rights Commission theme for Black History Month 2022:

"Using the past to build an equitable future."

"Throughout this month, the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) and people across Canada pause to honour and celebrate the immense achievements and contributions that Black people have made, and continue to make, across all sectors of society. We celebrate Black people's determination, perseverance, resilience, and strength toward growing a more inclusive and just society."

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City of Toronto, Mayor John Tory Proclamation

"WHEREAS Toronto became the first municipality in Canada to proclaim Black History Month in 1979 to honour the legacy of Black Canadians.

The month provides an opportunity to celebrate and commemorate the legacy, history and achievements that Canadians of African descent have made and continue to make, and to recognize our commitment to equal rights, opportunity and freedom from discrimination in Toronto and across Canada..."

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Community Living Toronto statement

This February, during Black History month, is a time to spotlight and celebrate Black excellence. Within Community Living Toronto, that means a commitment to listening, learning, and supporting to build the kind of communities that honour all of us. As we reflect on the ways in which Black Canadians have shaped our communities with great strength and resilience, we also acknowledge this as a history that continues to enrich our core values of inclusion, choice, and diversity. Through our shared experiences, Black History month is a celebration of Black achievements, community values, and active commitments to justice that are lived out 365 days a year by all of us.

Statement from Brad Saunders, Chief Executive Officer:

"During Black History Month, I would invite you to learn and understand more about the experiences of Black Canadians. We are at our strongest when everyone is fully included in our neighbourhoods and communities. What will get us through an increasingly divisive time is how we treat others; how included we all are. In the age of Twitter and Tik Tok, where everyone has an answer to everything, I would encourage you to make yourself vulnerable and, through listening, learning and conversations, seek to understand Black History in a deeper way. I would also invite you to consider what you can do in your life to help build more inclusive workplaces, friendships and communities each and every day. It is what I will be thinking about and I'd invite you to join me."

What does Black History Month mean to our staff?

Juanita Forde, Support Worker I, Chief Steward - CUPE 2191

"I dream one day Black history month will come to an end. Our history will be embedded in our country's history lessons, books and courses - where it belongs. "

Sherene Myers, Manager

"Black History Month means a time to highlight/spotlight the accomplishments and achievements of Black people. It is a time to reflect on where we are coming from and to inform and promote education for learning that is intended to continue throughout the year."

Joe Persaud, Director of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

"Black History Month is a celebration of the intersectionality and diversity across the Black diaspora that transcends race and gender. It's a call to action to advocate for and uplift our Black communities through active involvement and authentic allyship throughout every year. These collective efforts work to achieve equity and inclusion in all aspects of society to shape our collective future."

Holly Raglin, Support Worker III

"Black History Month means a time for learning and listening. I am looking forward to more information and resources that are brought forward."

Veriline Howe, Support Worker III

"Black History Month reminds me of all leaders and activists who have taken on the fight to combat and eradicate all forms of racism, discrimination and harassment, including the confrontation of anti-Black racism."

Amar Bajwa, President, Support Worker II, CUPE Local 2191

"Black History Month reminds me the time is right for all of us to step up the struggle to ensure freedom for all."