February is Black History Month – a time of education, reflection and celebration. This month, the City of Mississauga, in partnership with the Black Caucus Alliance, will continue to recognize and celebrate the contributions and accomplishments of Mississauga’s Black community through a variety of events, activities and programs.
“During the Celebrating Black Excellence event we are proud to highlight just a few of the many talented individuals and help them amplify their voices and stories in our community,” said Acting Mayor Joe Horneck. “Under the continued guidance of organizations like the Black Caucus Alliance, we’re forging a vibrant future and are committed to acting on the recommendations outlined in the Black Community Engagement Report as a City, paving the way towards a more inclusive society and helping to create positive change one step at a time.”
Throughout Black History Month, the community is invited to take part in the conversation and more importantly, to learn and develop a deeper understanding of the history of people of African descent in Canada and Mississauga. Opportunities for learning and ways to engage are featured on the Black History Month webpage, some of which include:
- Museum tours
- Exhibits
- Library author talks and book clubs
- Highlighting local Black artists and musicians
- Events and community celebrations
- Sports and shows
“We’re proud to partner with the City to recognize the amazing contributions of the Black community – past, present and future. Through our continued partnership, we’re taking steps towards equity by tackling anti-Black racism,” said Shelly Scott-England, Chair of the Black Caucus Alliance. “This month, we honour the Black community’s achievements, highlight our vibrant culture and history while continuing to bring awareness about ongoing injustices.”
Celebrating Black Excellence Event
The second annual Celebrating Black Excellence event will take place on Friday, February 23, 2024 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Mississauga City Hall. This is an opportunity to celebrate and recognize the accomplishments of Mississauga’s Black community. The event will include musical guests, keynote speakers and an awards ceremony. If you know someone deserving of a Black Excellence Award, please take a moment and submit a nomination.
For more information about Black History Month and City programming available, visit the webpage.
Background
Learn more about the steps the City of Mississauga continues to take to further engage Black community members in decision-making processes and ensuring programs and services are equitable and inclusive for all community members.
- First Steps: A Community-Driven Report on Making Mississauga More Equitable for Black Communities was received by Mississauga City Council in April 2022.
- Mississauga’s Black Community Engagement sessions helped inform the First Steps report through the recommendations, ideas and the lived experiences of hundreds of community members.
- Anti-Black and Indigenous Racism – Resolution 207
The City of Mississauga recognizes that racism, and in particular anti-Black racism and discrimination is a crisis in our community that requires immediate and sustained attention. - International Decade for People of African Descent – Resolution 0039-2022
The City of Mississauga joins the global community in recognizing 2015 to 2024 as the International Decade for People of African Descent.
