New Brunswick Black History Month will take place in the province throughout February in honour of the contributions and achievements of Black Canadians.
Since 1995, February has been recognized as Black History Month in Canada and New Brunswickers play their part too in recognising the role Black Canadians have played in the province.
Across the month, there will be various opportunities to build up education of an often-overlooked part of the nation’s history and learn about the experiences, contributions and achievements of Black Canadians.
“Black History Month plays an important role in human rights education and teaching people about Black New Brunswickers who worked to overcome challenges and discrimination and make our province a better place,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Tammy Scott-Wallace.
“It is a time for us to unite, acknowledge the undue hardships, and celebrate the progress achieved thanks to Black Canadians.”
New Brunswick Black History Month – Why It Is Held
On May 25, 1815, more than 300 former slaves arrived at the harbour in Saint John, having fled bondage in the Chesapeake Bay region of the United States.
They eventually founded the community of Willow Grove, just outside of Saint John, and many of their descendants still live in the province.
Black Canadians continue to shape the province in many ways through arts, sports, poetry, academia, technology, advocacy and entrepreneurship.
The fabric of New Brunswick’s communities is strengthened by the daily contribution and hard work of Black Canadians.
“Black History Month serves as a platform for education, remembrance and the pursuit of social justice,” added Scott-Wallace.
“I would like to recognize the organizations and community groups who work to deepen our collective understanding and appreciation of the considerable role Black history plays in shaping our province.
“I encourage everyone to take a moment to consider the valuable legacy of Black Canadians, both past and present.”