February 2026 marks an important milestone for Black History Month’s official recognition in Canada. This year’s national theme, “30 Years of Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries,” calls us to celebrate the legacy of Black leaders who helped build this country, while uplifting the innovators shaping its future.
Across the United Way Centraide network, this month is also a reminder of what we witness every day: the strength, creativity, and resilience of Black communities, and the essential role they play in building a more connected, caring Canada.
Centraide of Greater Montreal remains a strong funder of the Bureau de la communauté haïtienne de Montréal (BCHM), supporting programs that strengthen families, guide youth into adulthood, and honour intergenerational wisdom within the Haitian community.
In East Ontario
To mark the start of Black History Month, United Way East Ontario was pleased to honour Joycelyn Constant with a Community Builder Award — a foster parent, advocate, and community leader whose decades of care reflects the heart of what Black History Month is all about: lifting one another up. Jocelyn leads with love and has dedicated her life to the care, protection, and empowerment of BIPOC children, youth, and families in our community.
In Calgary and Area
Through the Grassroots Empowerment Moh’kinstsis (GEM), United Way of Calgary and Area supports 11 Black-led grassroot organizations, including Wings of Hope for Africa, Iconic Community Healthcare, Calgary African Community Collective and Ruth’s House Society, to address unique local priorities. Most recently the GEM Summit 2025: Empowering Grassroots and Transforming Systems, took place on November 20–21, 2025 featuring speakers who are leaders in the black community including Dr. Malinda Smith (University of Calgary), Francis Boakye (Action Dignity), Louise Adongo (Caprivan), Yonatan Ghebray (Caprivan) and Charles Buchannan (Technology Helps) amongst others.
In British Columbia
United Way British Columbia’s continues to change lives by investing in initiatives like the Youth Futures Education Fund, supporting students like Favour, a resilient young woman and former youth in care who is pursuing her dreams in musical therapy. These are stories that remind us why community support matters.
Looking Ahead with Care and Commitment
Throughout 2026, United Way Centraides across Canada will continue to strengthen relationships with Black communities, invest in local leadership, support youth and families, and advance equity in the ways that matter most locally.
This month is a celebration — but it is also part of long-term, year‑round work that honours the full, vibrant, ongoing legacy of Black communities in Canada.
“As we recognize 30 years of Black History Month, United Way Centraide reaffirms its commitment to uplifting the voices and leadership of Black communities across the country,” said Dan Clement, President and CEO of United Way Canada. “We will keep listening, learning, and investing in community‑driven initiatives that help ensure every person has the opportunity to thrive.”
In communities nationwide, United Way Centraides are dedicated to advancing a future of equity and justice for everyone in Canada. We are proud to celebrate the histories, contributions, achievements, and potential of Black Canadians this month and throughout the year. Learn more about Black History Month.
