Brantford City Council has officially declared February 2025 as Black History Month in the City of Brantford, reaffirming its commitment to recognizing the contributions of Black Canadians. The proclamation was made during the City Council meeting on January 28, 2025.
To mark the occasion, a flag-raising event will take place at Harmony Square on January 31 at 4 p.m., featuring remarks from Mayor Kevin Davis and representatives from Child and Family Services of Grand Erie. Brantford City Hall will also be illuminated in yellow, green, and red from February 1 to 7 in honor of Black History Month.
Black History Month was first established as a week-long recognition in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson, coinciding with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Canada officially recognized February as Black History Month in 1995, following a motion by the Honourable Jean Augustine, the country’s first Black female Member of Parliament. Brantford has formally observed Black History Month since 2021.
“Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the significant contributions that Black Canadians make to our community,” said Mayor Kevin Davis. “Black people have been a fundamental part of Brantford’s history, dating back as early as 1858, and have greatly contributed to the cultural, economic, political, and social development of our city.”
Throughout February, organizations across Brantford will host events celebrating the achievements and history of the city’s Black community. Residents can visit brantford.ca/BlackHistoryMonth for a full list of events.
“Black History Month is an opportunity for Brantford to honour the historical and ongoing excellence of our Black community,” said Sally Johnson, Executive Director of Child and Family Services of Grand Erie. “This month, and throughout the year, it is important to reflect on the experiences of Black community members, to inform important work being done to shape a more equitable and inclusive future.”
In 2022, Brantford joined the UNESCO Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities, pledging to promote diversity and ensure all residents have the opportunity to fully participate in the city’s economic, political, and cultural life. As part of this commitment, Brantford City Council approved the Inclusive Community Plan in June 2023, furthering initiatives that support social inclusion and equity.
