Black History Month 2023

During Black History month Canadians celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians who throughout history have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse nation it is today.

People of African descent have been a part of shaping Canada’s heritage and identity since the arrival of Mathieu Da Costa, who is the first known Black person to travel to Canada in the 1600s.

Black History month allows us to focus on uncovering the entire picture of the presence of African-descended people.  As we get to know the history, we are amazed of the ability to survive and the many achievements.

There have been many giant steps, including

• the ROM, in conjunction with the Black History Society, establishing the “Here We Are Here” exhibition
• the $10 bill with the picture of Viola Desmond, first Black person to be featured on a Canadian bank note
• the many Canada Post stamps with photos of Black people
• the Heritage Plaques in various communities identifying the contributions of Black citizens
• Government of Canada posters recognizing not only individual Black Canadians but also our African heritage
• United Nation’s recognition and designation: International Decade of people of African Descent from 2015 to 2024.

In the past, St. Peter and St Simon’s would mark Black History Month through a poster presentation in our parish hall.  This year, we’re online instead.

Click on the image below to view the presentation.