Black History Month is a time to reflect on the past, celebrate achievements, and recommit to building a future rooted in justice and equity. Black history is Canadian history. It is woven into the very fabric of Canada’s identity and progress.
The United Nations’ International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024) highlighted the importance of recognizing the contributions and challenges of Black communities worldwide. In Canada, the federal government has extended its efforts until 2028 to better understand and support Black communities, address systemic barriers, and amplify Black voices.
Society often reduces the Black experience to one of struggle or celebrates Black culture while ignoring the burden forced upon Black shoulders. We must recognize, confront and remedy Canada’s racist past and present – from the destruction of Africville in Halifax to the ongoing Black Class Action lawsuit targeting systemic racism in the federal public service. True recognition means rejecting the myth that racism doesn’t exist in Canada. It is alive, pervasive and woven into every facet of society.
Of the 45,000 class members included in the Black Class Action lawsuit, PSAC is the certified bargaining agent for the largest contingent of workers. We are committed to supporting their pursuit of justice for enduring decades of anti-Black racism while working in the federal public service. PSAC has contributed $270,000 to date, to help the Black Class Action Secretariat with legal fees and public relations efforts, ensuring Black public service workers receive the reparations they deserve.
For Black History Month, PSAC proudly honours the rich history and contributions of Black workers and communities. PSAC is committed to fostering inclusive environments where Black people feel valued, supported, and safe.
PSAC is proud to sponsor members attending the 4th National Black Canadians Summit – a space by and for Black Canadians to convene, celebrate achievements, discuss winning strategies, explore local and national projects, and empower leaders.
Throughout Black History Month educate yourself on the real history of Black people in Canada, from the historic adversity they have overcome, to their current successes and fights for justice. Let’s celebrate Black culture, Black joy, and Black excellence in all its diversity – not only this month, but all year round.
Here are some grassroots Black community organizations to connect with across Canada:
- Fondation Dynastie (QC) – This bilingual foundation aims to make lasting transformations to the cultural, artistic and media industries, ensuring better representation of Black communities in Quebec. It provides professional development programming to support and guide people of African descent working in culture, arts and media.
- Black Queer Youth Collective (ON) – Their goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment for Black Queer youth, Black Trans youth, and those questioning their identity. They allow youth to connect, reflect on their life experiences within Black communities, and improve their self-esteem by equipping them with the tools, confidence, and leadership opportunities.
- Federation of Black Canadians (ON) – A national, non-profit organization, driven by Black organizations across the country, whose mission is to advance the social, economic, political and cultural interests of Canadians of African descent, by discussing opportunities, contributions, and challenges that exist for them.
- Black Canadian Women in Action (AL-SK) – A bilingual charity committed to making a difference in the lives of families in Black Canadian communities living in Western Canada. Their vision is to promote the empowerment of Black Canadian women, girls and families in all sectors of society by building self-esteem, leadership and confidence through conferences, workshops, programs, etc. They promote cultural activities specific to Black communities, which gives a sense of belonging. They also value building bridges, partnerships and collaborations with other communities.
- Black Educators Association (NS) – The BEA is a volunteer, non-profit organization. Their mission is to assist African Nova Scotian communities develop strategies toward an equitable education system. This association has programs for children and youth and for adults, which include communications, maths, Black History – African Nova Scotian Studies, GED preparation, and a series of essential skills, such as reading text, working with others or digital skills, to name a few.
- Unity Centre Association for Black Cultures (BC) – A registered non‐profit organization that is designed to unify, promote and integrate Black cultures into Canadian society. The UCABC has established a Black cultural centre to educate the community on the contribution of Black people in BC, provide support services to children, youth, seniors and newcomers, and host celebratory community events.
- Black Advocacy Coalition upNorth (NWT) – A non-profit, Black-led organization based in Yellowknife with membership across the Northwest Territories. Their vision is to empower and advocate for the advancement of racial justice and equity for all Black peoples residing in Canada’s North.
This article was first posted on the PSAC website.
