By Janine Campbell
February is often associated with love and chocolates but it is also a time meant to honour the history, culture, and achievements of Black communities. However, despite its significance, many argue that Valentine’s Day overshadows this annual celebration of heritage.
Black History Month was officially recognized in Canada in 1995, after a motion introduced by Dr. Jean Augustine, the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament. Its purpose is to highlight the struggles and accomplishments of Black Canadians, and to educate the public about the lasting impact of systemic racism and the contributions of Black individuals to society.
However, in schools, workplaces, and media coverage, Valentine’s Day often receives more attention. Retail stores are decked out in red, social media posts flood feeds with love-themed content, and community events frequently focus on romance rather than history. While Valentine’s Day lasts just one day and Black History Month spans the entire month, it sometimes struggles to capture the same public awareness or enthusiasm.
Many people see this as a missed opportunity to learn about and celebrate Black history in Canada. Black achievements, stories of resilience, and cultural contributions deserve the spotlight without being overshadowed by candy hearts and roses.
Across the country, some schools and communities are working to change that. Schools are introducing Black History Month initiatives and some social media campaigns encourage people to share stories and celebrate Black excellence year-round. These efforts remind us that honouring Black history is not just a February activity, it’s a conversation and celebration that should continue all year long.
As Canada continues to strive for inclusion and equity, it’s important that celebrations of love do not drown out celebrations of heritage. Black History Month may not come with chocolates or roses but its lessons, stories and legacies are far sweeter and far more necessary for building a more informed and equitable society.