Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addresses participants at the Government of Canada Black History Month launch           Photo copyright Black Ottawa Scene

Monday 4 February 2019

Over 400 people crammed into the salon at the National Arts  Centre in Ottawa to hear Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reaffirm his support for African Canadians in their continuing fight against anti-Black racism. Trudeau made these remarks as he and a slew of federal government ministers and members of Parliament welcomed over 400 guests to the launch of the 2019 Black History Month in the nation’s capital. Earlier in the week, the Prime Minister had issued a press release,in honour of Black History Month, which reads in part:

“This year’s theme – Black Canadian Youth: Boundless, Rooted, & Proud – celebrates young Black Canadians: their power, their voices, their achievements, and their future. But it also reminds us of the inequality and barriers many continue to face, from anti-black racism and discrimination to a lack of opportunity and resources. That’s unacceptable. Our diversity is our strength, and we need to do more to achieve real equality for young Canadians and everyone in our country.”

Black Ottawa Scene was there to bring you faces of the those in attendance at this annual festive celebration.

All photos copyright Black Ottawa Scene