Every 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.

2026 Theme for Black History Month 

The Government of Canada has announced the 2026 theme for Black History Month: “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations, From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.”

This national theme marks three decades of Black History Month in Canada and highlights the lasting contributions of Black Canadians across time. It recognizes the work of nation builders who advanced civil rights, strengthened social justice, and shaped Canada’s cultural and political landscape. It also looks ahead to tomorrow’s visionaries who continue to lead, innovate, and influence every field.

By focusing on “Black Brilliance Across Generations”, the theme underscores continuity, resilience, and progress. It invites reflection on historical achievements while encouraging future possibilities, reminding us that Black history speaks to both the past and the future. It also supports intergenerational dialogue and community pride, reinforcing the ongoing commitment to equity and inclusion.

The 30‑year milestone offers an opportunity to honour legacy, celebrate present contributions, and support the next generation in a way that is both commemorative and forward‑looking.

Black History in Canada

Black Canadians and their communities have been a part of shaping Canada’s heritage and identity since the arrival of Mathieu Da Costa, a navigator and interpreter whose presence in Canada dates back to the early 1600s.

The role of Black people and their communities in Canada has largely been ignored as a key part of Canada’s history. There is little mention that some of the Loyalists who came here after the American Revolution and settled in the Maritimes were people of African descent, nor the fact that many soldiers of African descent made many sacrifices in wartime as far back as the War of 1812.

Few people in Canada are aware of the fact that African people were once enslaved in the territory that is now known as Canada, or of how those who fought enslavement helped to lay the foundation of Canada’s diverse and inclusive society.

Black History Month is a time to learn more about these Canadian stories and the many other important contributions that Black Canadians and their communities have made to this country's history and continued growth.

Black History Month in Edmonton Catholic Schools

Edmonton Catholic Schools consultants are sharing many opportunities and rich resources with our staff so that they can learn and explore more about Black History in Canada and around the world. 

In 2023, our Creating Communities of Belonging team produced a series of videos featuring students and staff reflecting on what Black History Month means to them.

Highlights of #BHM2025 Student Activities