Each February, we celebrate Black History Month (BHM). Together, we honour and celebrate the many achievements and legacies of Black leaders both here at work and across the country. This BHM was no different—especially on the 30th anniversary of the House of Commons officially recognizing February as Black History Month in Canada. Throughout the month, YWCA Toronto programs marked this milestone through learning, storytelling, and community connection.
On February 1st, members of our Anti Black Racism Committee and a director from our senior leadership team attended the annual Ontario Black History Society BHM Luncheon at the Liberty Grand. Founded in 1978 by historians and educators such as Dr. Daniel G. Hill and Rosemary Sadlier, the Ontario Black History Society has played a vital role in advancing the recognition of Black history and championing Black History Month in Canada.
Our Women in the Trades program amplified the success stories of Black women in the skilled trades who were connected to YWCA Toronto, including Shelly Harding Smith, Canada’s first Black female Master Electrician, and past YWCA Toronto Distinction Award recipients Melissa Alexander and Natasha Ferguson.
Our English Language Skills and Development program explored the historical triumphs and struggles of Black communities in Canada, and the impact of barriers they face. Program participants completed group projects on Black women leaders and viewed short videos about Black Canadian changemakers, while staff engaged with CBC’s The Legacy Lounge series—a dynamic talk show that honours the legacies of influential Black Canadian figures shaping contemporary culture.
The Health Connect program partnered with the JUMP program for a screening of Hidden Figures, followed by a guided discussion on representation, systemic barriers, and the importance of amplifying Black women’s stories. JUMP also shared a newsletter highlighting influential Black Canadians and curated a playlist celebrating influential Black artists!
At YWCA Arise, volunteers from George Brown College’s dance program taught participants traditional African dances each week, creating joyful opportunities for movement and cultural expression.
Our Elm Housing team hosted a community kitchen session featuring Afro-Caribbean cuisine, where participants learned to prepare jerk chicken, rice and peas, and fried plantain. Bonus, they took home their own marinade to recreate the recipe! The site also streamed virtual events celebrating Black business leaders and Black culture. It organized a group dinner and a trip to the Art Gallery of Ontario’s Sample Chief Takeover—a dance party featuring several DJs— and offered an African drumming workshop paired with a Caribbean themed meal.
The Women’s Shelter marked the month with BHM trivia and a guest speaker from Sisters Circle TO—an organization committed to building a strong community amongst Black Muslim Women in Toronto. The team also hosted a family movie night featuring Akeelah and the Bee, and a community dinner.
At our Davenport Shelter, participants attended a screening of The Wiz at TIFF Lightbox, and took part in Black History Month decorating, button making, self care and cooking workshops, a dance workshop, and a family dinner.
Across the Association, staff and program participants alike were offered meaningful opportunities to learn, honour, and celebrate BHM. This snapshot captures only some of the impactful programming that took place in February here at YWCA Toronto. Although the month has ended, our commitment to learning about and celebrating Black excellence continues throughout the year.
To continue your own learning, consider accessing the following resources. They offer various ways to stay engaged, deepen understanding, and celebrate Black history every day of the year.