Black Heritage Month: Contributions That Inspire

A loving father of African descent sits on the couch in the living room of his home and reads a picture book to his preschool age daughter, who is sitting on his lap smiling.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) celebrates Black Heritage Month, honouring the achievements and contributions of Black Ontarians.

This year marks 100 years since the history of Black communities began to be formally acknowledged in the United States. Canada followed in 1979 with Toronto’s first proclamation, and in 1993, Ontario officially recognized Black History Month. These milestones helped integrate Black history into school curricula, libraries, literature, and community celebrations across the province.

Throughout February, we celebrate the leadership and contributions of Black Ontarians who continue to shape Ontario’s future. It is also a time to reflect on how our province’s cultural and economic vibrancy has been enriched by the traditions and heritage of people of African and Caribbean descent who now call Ontario home.

We also honour the legacy of Black civil rights leaders whose courage and determination laid the foundation for addressing anti-Black racism, discrimination, and inequity—and who continue to champion a more just and inclusive society today. As a public agency, OTF has supported projects that reflect Ontario’s diversity and help dismantle systemic barriers. Our Framework for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion guides this important work.

Each year, OTF funds over 400 local projects to build healthy and vibrant communities. Since 2020, OTF has invested $98.2 million in projects benefitting Black communities across Ontario through our different granting programs. Explore the grants awarded serving Black communities.