Brantford City Council has officially declared February 2025 as Black History Month, reaffirming its commitment to recognizing the contributions of Black Canadians.
A flag-raising ceremony at Harmony Square marked the occasion, attended by Mayor Kevin Davis, local officials, and representatives from Child and Family Services of Grand Erie.
Brantford City Hall will be illuminated in yellow, green, and red from February 1 to 7 in recognition of the month.
Speaking with BrantBlog at the event, Mayor Kevin Davis emphasized the importance of acknowledging Black history in Brantford.
He noted the city’s historical connection to the Underground Railroad, which brought formerly enslaved people to Canada in the 1800s. A church in East Ward, built by those who arrived through the Underground Railroad, remains a lasting symbol of that history.
Davis also highlighted the ongoing contributions of Brantford’s Black community to the city and the country, stating that Black History Month serves as an opportunity to reflect on both past and future achievements.
Karen Bulmer, Service Manager with Child and Family Services of Grand Erie, spoke about the agency’s participation in the event and its internal efforts to address equity for Black families.
She discussed the Sankofa Committee, an initiative focused on evaluating and improving services for Black children, youth, and families.
Bulmer acknowledged systemic barriers, including poverty and overrepresentation in child welfare services, and emphasized the organization’s work in addressing these challenges.
Black History Month was first established in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson and later expanded in Canada in 1995 following a motion by Jean Augustine, the country’s first Black female Member of Parliament. Brantford has formally recognized Black History Month since 2021.
Throughout February, organizations across the city will host events celebrating the history and achievements of Brantford’s Black community.
A full list of activities is available at brantford.ca/BlackHistoryMonth.
In 2022, Brantford joined the UNESCO Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities, committing to diversity and full participation for all residents in the city’s economic, political, and cultural life. As part of this effort, the Inclusive Community Plan, approved in 2023, continues to guide local initiatives supporting equity and inclusion.
