Statement from Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter to Honour February 2024 as Black History Month in Oshawa

Today marks the beginning of Black History Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the resilience, achievements, and contributions of the Black community throughout generations. This month also serves to remind us of the profound impact Black Canadians have made throughout history and their role in shaping our nation's rich cultural tapestry.

The stories of Black Canadians are an integral part of our country’s and our city’s heritage. I encourage everyone to take some time this month to learn more about these stories, not only to honour the contributions of Black Canadians to our society, but also to better understand how this history informs our present.

Black History Month is more than a reflection on the past; it is a call to action. The legacy of historic racism and discrimination continues to be felt today as many members of Black communities still experience barriers to inclusion that take the forms of violence, oppression and harassment. We recognize that it is not enough to acknowledge past injustices and the ongoing impacts of anti-Black racism; we must also commit to meaningful action.

The City of Oshawa is committed to dismantling racism and, in particular, anti-Black racism in our community. As part of this commitment, City staff continue to undertake training in unconscious bias and anti-racism, and we continue to solicit feedback on initiatives from the diverse voices on the Community Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee.

As we commemorate Black History Month, let us engage in open dialogue, challenge systemic inequalities and champion inclusivity. By recognizing the significance of Black history, we take a crucial step toward building a more equitable and harmonious society for everyone.

I look forward to continuing to celebrate the diverse Black cultures and community members in Oshawa today and every day.

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