Black History Month is a time for us to celebrate the history, culture and immense contributions of Black Canadians across the country and in our communities. This year’s theme is “Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build (external link)”.
A diverse and inclusive community is strengthened by our shared commitment to learn about the traditions and experiences of all people and voices. As we look back at our history in Halton, there are notable people and families who shaped our community and the lives of many Black Canadians.
Alvin Duncan (external link) was a Black Canadian historian and World War II veteran from Oakville. He received several awards for his service in the Royal Canadian Air Force, and was a recipient of the Governor General’s Golden Jubilee Medal. His tireless research and public education about the contributions of Black Canadians to our country’s history enriched the lives of many people.
Alvin Duncan’s research shared important stories of people like James Wesley Hill (Bing video), who was a conductor on the Underground Railroad (external link) and helped 800 people escape slavery and come to Canada through Oakville. James W. Hill Public School in Oakville (GoogleMaps link) is named in his honour.
Learn and participate
Learn more about Black History in Halton and Canada below, and attend local events and exhibits:
- Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton Black History Month 2024 Program (external link) - Kick off celebrations, art installations, music and educational events
- Black Mentorship Black Excellence Celebration (external link) - A gala to discuss and celebrate Black Excellence in Halton
- Can you Hear What They Said? Unpacking the Power, Influence and Agency of Black Voices in Canada (external link) - A talk with Dr. Natasha Henry-Dixon, hosted by Oakville Public Library
- Oakville Museum (external link) – Virtual tour and permanent exhibits on Canadian Black History
- Oakville’s Black History (external link) - Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton
- Black History in Canada (external link) - Historica Canada
- Black History Timeline (external link) - The Canadian Encyclopedia
- Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton (external link)
- Halton Black History Awareness Society (external link)
- Halton Black Voices (external link)
- Ontario Black History Society (external link)
- Federation of Black Canadians (external link)
You can also find more information about Black History Month in Canada (external link) by visiting canada.ca (external link).
Halton Region’s social, cultural and economic development is strengthened when we are inclusive, seek all perspectives, and value everyone who calls Halton home. By appreciating each other’s differences and embracing diversity, we keep Halton a great place to live, work, raise a family and retire.