Lift Your Voice Choir performing at the Durham Region Black History Month Celebration on February 1.

Black History Month Celebration Highlight

On February 1, the Lift Your Voice Choir— made up of students from Michaëlle Jean Public School, and led by teacher, Chantelle Barham—performed their original arrangement of Lift Every Voice and Sing, titled That’s Why I Lift My Voice. Watch the welcoming and opening section of the Black History Month Celebration at durham.ca/BlackHistoryMonth.

Together We Rise Durham Partners

Municipalities across Durham Region are dedicated to supporting welcoming and inclusive communities.

• The City of Oshawa has proclaimed and honours February 2024 as Black History Month. In celebration, the City is showcasing Black entrepreneurs and their businesses that have contributed to making the Oshawa community unique. Reasons to Support Black-owned Businesses: Supporting Black-owned businesses helps Oshawa’s communities grow and thrive; in general, Black entrepreneurs and professionals may have additional barriers to owning a small business. Supporting Black-owned businesses can help overcome some of these barriers to help Black business owners succeed; and supporting Black-owned businesses is a way of celebrating different Black cultures and the communities they represent. Learn more at oshawa.ca/blackhistorymonth.
• The Municipality of Clarington is the fastest-growing municipality in Durham Region, and there’s good reason for it. Clarington has a fortunate balance of urban living and rural charm, a great quality of life and an incredibly bright future. With a priority to cultivate a strong, thriving and connected community where everyone is welcome, Clarington is proud to celebrate Black History Month in partnership with the Region of Durham. As part of Black History Month, plan to attend Clarington’s Black Vendor Village on February 24. Learn more about the Municipality of Clarington at clarington.net.
• At the Town of Ajax, diversity is our strength. We have the fastest-growing diverse population and value the many contributions of our community. We celebrate Black History Month by showcasing Black excellence in our Town. It is a time of celebrating, reflecting, and recognizing the many remarkable contributions made by people of African and Caribbean descent throughout history. From arts and culture to music, sports, politics and more, Black people have made countless contributions that have shaped our world today. As part of the celebrations, we encourage the community to participate in Black History Month events to learn more about the important impact of Black Canadians in our community. For more information, visit ajax.ca/BHM.
• The Town of Whitby believes in a town that is welcoming and inclusive for everyone. The Whitby Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee is made up of residents who advise Council on the elimination of barriers for the diverse population of our community. It helps foster a greater understanding of matters within the Town through community partnerships. Learn more about the Town of Whitby and the Whitby Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee.
• The Township of Brock is the most northern municipality in the Region of Durham. Brock is a welcoming community, and our residents recognize the importance of celebrating Black History Month. The Township encourages Durham Region residents to participate in events and support the community organizations in the great work they do. Brock Libraries are honoured to showcase a Black History Month virtual event with Kern Carter, author of the teen novel Boys and Girls Screaming. Ken will share his creative process and personal journey of breaking through a challenging career. To learn more about our event please visit Brock Libraries events and Township of Brock events.

For more Black History Month event highlights, visit durham.ca/BlackHistoryMonth.