Statement by Minister Joly on Black History Month
The theme for Black History Month 2018 is “Black Canadian Women: Stories of Strength, Courage and Vision”
OTTAWA, Feb. 1, 2018 /CNW/ – Today marks the beginning of this year’s Black History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions that Black Canadians have made to this country. This year’s theme, “Black Canadian Women: Stories of Strength, Courage and Vision,” shines a light on the immeasurable impact that Black women have had in shaping the open and prosperous country that we enjoy today.
Canada’s history is filled with stories of trailblazers and leaders who, often in the face of seemingly impossible challenges, have changed our country for the better. From Chloe Cooley, whose fierce resistance to her own enslavement led to the first legislation limiting slavery in what became Canada; to accomplished actor, broadcaster and social activist Kay Livingstone, whose efforts led to the first National Congress of Black Women in Canada; to Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard, an educator and advocate for anti-oppression and diversity who now serves as the Chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Humans Rights, Black women have often been at the forefront of the movement for social change and equal rights in Canada.
Black History Month is an opportunity to honour the legacies of these women and others like them across all sectors of our society, as we inspire the next generation of young Black leaders to carve out their own place in Canada’s history. We also reaffirm the Government of Canada’s commitment to the International Decade for People of African Descent, and to addressing the ongoing challenges and discrimination that still exist in our society today.
As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Multiculturalism, I encourage all Canadians to take this opportunity to share stories of strong, courageous and visionary Black women past and present that have inspired them, and have helped contribute to a better future for us all.
SOURCE Canadian Heritage
