Black History Month - 2026

February 2026 marks 30 years of Black History Month in Canada, an important milestone that invites us to reflect on the past three decades of equity work. At the same time, Black history in Canada extends far beyond this period. It is deeply rooted in the foundations of this country and in the everyday lives, care and resilience of Black communities across Toronto. As Jean Augustine said, “Black history is Canadian history.”

In Jane-Finch, Black residents have long shaped the neighbourhood’s social, cultural and political life. Community organizers, elders, artists, youth leaders, frontline workers, parents and advocates have built strong networks of care and support—often while taking on real personal and material risk. Through community-led support, grassroots organizing, creative practice and advocacy, Black communities have strengthened Jane-Finch and continue to imagine and work toward a more just future for residents across the neighbourhood. This legacy is not only one of resistance, but also of leadership, creativity, joy and collective power.

At the same time, we recognize that this moment is heavy. Anti-Black racism persists. Black lives continue to be lost to systemic violence, and hard-won progress toward equity is being challenged. We are seeing political movements gain ground that rely on exclusion, the targeting of racialized communities, and the dismissal of Black lives and histories—highlighting the need for vigilance, collective organizing, and action.

This context reminds us why Black History Month matters. It honours Black joy, creativity, brilliance, and self-determination, alongside the ongoing fight for justice. Advancing equity and centring Black voices is not one-time work; it must be built into how organizations, institutions and individuals show up every day.

As we move forward, we commit to learning from and standing with Black communities in Jane-Finch and beyond, and to taking action that supports equity.