In February, we celebrate Black History Month and recognize the outstanding contributions made by the Black community in Waterloo Region, in Canada and beyond.
Black History Month is an opportunity to learn, reflect and appreciate the achievements and legacy of Black Canadians. Learn more about Black History Month in Canada here.
Join in the celebration and discover events, reading lists, resources and more below.
Discover our Local History collection featuring the KW Caribbean Canadian Cultural Association's photos, flyers and other documents, spanning from 1975 to 2015.
Watch the Black Stories Collection of movies, documentaries and television series on CBC Gem.
Stream films by Black filmmakers and about the Black experience with Kanopy.
Explore movies, tv shows and read-along storybooks to help teach kids about Black History.
Find a selection of eBooks and eAudiobooks celebrating Black Voices from downloadLibrary and the Libby app.
Featuring an original story by Dr. Clive Forrester from the Department of English Language and Literature at the University of Waterloo and performance by Letna Allen-Rowe aka "Miss Letna".
The African Women’s Alliance of Waterloo Region is a non-profit community organization founded in 1995. Their mission is to promote African culture and heritage to members of the African community and the general populace in Waterloo Region through educational and social activities.
Learn more here.
Established in 2010, Bring On The Sunshine (BOTS) responded to anti-Black racism, aiming to unite and support individuals of African descent in Canada. The organization focuses on empowering the African, Black, and Caribbean communities in Waterloo Region, especially youth and new immigrants.
The Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region (CCAWR) is a non-profit organization serving Waterloo Region’s Caribbean community. Organized in 1975, they are committed to strengthening and enhancing the quality of life of families and individuals by providing culturally sensitive programs, support, resources, education and training.
CCAWR Black History Month 2025 Launch: Legacy and Triumph
Date: Sunday, February 2
Time: 12-5 pm
Location: Federation Hall, University of Waterloo
Learn more here.
This year, the Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region (CCAWR) is celebrating its 50th anniversary! Watch a special video tribute by DIRECTEDBYKP on YouTube.
The Guelph Black Heritage Society (GBHS) was founded to preserve the historical significance of the The Guelph BME (British Methodist Episcopal) Church at 83 Essex Street in Guelph, which was built by formerly enslaved Black individuals and their descendants who arrived in the area via the Underground Railroad.
Learn more about their Black History Month events here.
Check out the Kitchener Public Library’s Black History Month programs and events, including guest speakers and more.
Founded in 1978, the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS), is at the forefront in the celebration of Black history and heritage with a demonstrated record in the study, preservation and promotion of Black history in Ontario.
The Ontario Heritage Trust offers a variety of resources to learn more about Black Heritage in Ontario. Discover the collection here.
Rhythm & Blues Cambridge is a hub for community and engagement that supports and showcases the Black community in Cambridge. It promotes and appreciates the Black experience by building partnerships, sharing and develop vital resources for our community.
Find details about their Black History Month events here.
Stroll Walking Tours offer curated private walking tours on a variety of subjects. Learn more about the Black Presence in Berlin tour, which takes place in Downtown Kitchener. Please note that these are paid tours.
The University of Waterloo celebrates the diversity of people of African descent in Canada and their importance to the history and prosperity of this country; discover events, the Black history of UW, stories and more on their Black History Month page.
Throughout Black History Month and the rest of the year, Wilfrid Laurier University invites you to learn about their inspiring Black student leaders, exceptional faculty and staff members and their impactful alumni through the stories, events and learning opportunities featured.
Discover stories, resources, events and more here.
