Every year, Black History Month offers Canadians the opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the rich legacy and significant contributions of Black communities in Canada. Today, The Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, unveiled the theme for this year’s Black History Month: “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations.”

Minister Khera made the announcement on Lincoln Alexander Day, which marks the legacy of Canada’s first Black Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister, Lincoln Alexander. This year’s theme invites all Canadians to celebrate the diversity, resilience, and leadership of Black people in Canada while acknowledging the ongoing challenges they face.

“February gives us the chance to celebrate Black communities' remarkable contributions to Canadian society. But it is also a time to reflect on our shared history, including the persistent challenges such as systemic barriers, racism, and discrimination that Black Canadians continue to face," said Minister Khera. “Our government remains committed to addressing these challenges and building a more equitable, just future for Black Canadians.”

Since recognizing the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent in 2018, the Canadian government has allocated over $1 billion to support programs that directly benefit Black communities across the country. Minister Khera emphasized, "This month, I encourage all Canadians to engage with the rich history of Black communities, learn from their stories, and contribute to an inclusive future."

“The history of Black communities in Canada is an integral part of Canadian history. This year's theme is about reflecting and celebrating the contributions of Black Canadians in shaping our country while paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive future. In Canada, diversity is a fact, but inclusion is a choice; for far too long Black communities in Canada have been faced with anti-Black and systemic racism. Our government has remained committed to combatting these systemic barriers, and that is why we recognized the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent and welcomed the recently announced second decade. Through efforts like the Canada Anti-Racism Strategy and Canada's Action Plan on Combatting Hate, our government is tackling anti-Black racism and combatting hate in all its forms. Black History Month offers us all a valuable opportunity to learn more about the diversity of Black communities across the country, and to listen to and be open with one another on what we can do to build a better, more inclusive Canada.” Said the Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities