OTTAWA — Black History Month is an important opportunity to celebrate the enormous contributions that Black Canadians have made to Canadian society.  ”This month, all Canadians can take some time to learn about the history of Black people in our country and how their presence and achievements have influenced our culture,” said Green Leader Elizabeth May. 

February has been officially designated Black History Month in Canada since 1995, growing out of a long history of unofficial celebrations of the contributions of Black Canadians.

“We can reflect on Black history in Canada and realize some of the immense changes that have happened over the span of a few generations,” said May. “Then we can look forward to a future of even greater equality and cooperation.  Black history should give us all hope that with courage and perseverance, dreams can be achieved.”

The Green Party of Canada encourages everyone to discover what local events may be happening in your community and to take part in Black History Month.

“We know that toxic waste and environmental blights like dump sites are disproportionately located across North America near communities of people of colour and this deserves more attention.  Our Green and social justice agendas have been advanced by Black leaders like Rocky Jones and Clotilda Yakimchuk in Nova Scotia,” said Ms. May.