Every February, communities across Canada observe Black History Month, a time to honour the history, resilience, and cultural contributions of Black people globally. In 2026, the national theme marks an important milestone: “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.” This anniversary highlights three decades of national recognition and invites us to reflect on how Black Canadians have enriched our past while continuing to shape our future. 

For students at the University of Waterloo, Black History Month creates opportunities to learn, reflect, and engage with the diverse perspectives and lived experiences that contribute to our campus community. 

Black History Month in Canada: A National Context

Black History Month in Canada takes place every February. It was officially recognized in 1995 when the House of Commons unanimously adopted a motion introduced by the Hon. Jean Augustine, the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament. 

Over time, this month has grown into a nationwide observance that celebrates the profound contributions of Black Canadians, from cultural creators and community builders to activists, scholars, scientists, and visionaries. Black History Month encourages all Canadians to learn stories that mainstream narratives have often overlooked, including the roles Black communities played in shaping our country’s civic, cultural, and economic life. 

Black History Month also holds space for deeper reflection on the historical and ongoing challenges Black people face in Canada, including systemic barriers and anti-Black racism. It reminds us that understanding Black history is integral to understanding Canada itself, not as an add-on, but as part of our shared past and present. 

Why This Matters

Black History Month is more than a calendar observance; it’s relevant to your campus experience. On a university campus, we’re constantly engaging with ideas, histories, and systems that shape our society. This month invites students to broaden their perspectives, challenge assumptions, and appreciate the diversity of voices that contribute to our collective understanding. 

For many students, this month offers affirmation and representation, seeing themselves and their history reflected in academic, cultural, and community spaces. For others, it is a chance to listen and learn: to attend events, engage in critical discussions, and reflect on how equity and belonging play out in their own lives. 

Being part of a community that values inclusion means recognizing that equity isn’t passive. It requires action from supporting diverse student groups to amplifying Black voices in classrooms, research, and leadership. Black History Month encourages students to contribute to a campus culture where everyone can thrive. 

Reflection on Ongoing Issues

While Black History Month celebrates achievements and resilience, it is also a moment to acknowledge that the work continues. Black Canadians, like many racialized communities, still encounter systemic challenges in education, employment, health, justice, and beyond. This month shouldn’t be reduced to a token moment in the academic calendar but rather serve as a catalyst for ongoing learning and structural change. 

Reflection means listening to lived experiences, confronting uncomfortable truths, and recognizing how systems of power shape daily life for Black people in Canada. It also means standing in solidarity with Black students, faculty, and communities year-round — not just in February. 

Ways to Engage This Month and Beyond

There are many ways students at Waterloo can honour Black History Month in meaningful ways: 

Attend Events and Activities 

• Look out for campus and community events that highlight Black culture, history, and scholarship. Events may include lectures, film screenings, performances, and discussions. 
• Engage with student organizations, such as Black student alliances or cultural groups, that host programming throughout the month. 

Learn from Black Voices 

• Explore books by Black authors and thinkers, such as Basodee: An Anthology Dedicated to Black Youth, which reflects the experiences of Black youth in Canada. 
• Seek out podcasts, films, and online resources that center Black stories and perspectives. 
• Take advantage of educational toolkits and resources offered by institutions like the Government of Canada, which provide curated lists of materials and stories. 

Support Black-Led Initiatives 

• Learn about and connect with Black community organizations that advance equity, heritage, and leadership. Examples include the Ontario Black History Society, the National Black Coalition of Canada, and other regional heritage groups. 
• Volunteer, donate, or promote initiatives that support Black entrepreneurs, scholars, and creators. 

As we celebrate 30 Years of Black History Month in Canada, let’s honor the brilliance, perseverance, and contributions of Black Canadians across generations. May this month inspire reflection, learning, and action — fostering a community where diversity is recognized, equity is pursued, and every student feels a sense of belonging. 

Black history is Canadian history, and continuing that story depends on all of us: learning earnestly, listening deeply, and acting with compassion and purpose, today and every day. 

Alexandra Minard

Communications Assistant