Sunday 1 February 2026
Black History Month 2026 Opens with Powerful Celebration of Legacy and Community
By Obasola Bamigbola
Black History Month in Ottawa officially opened on Sunday, February 1, 2026, with a moving and meticulously curated ceremony at the Ottawa Conference and Event Centre. Organized by Black History Ottawa (BHO), the afternoon gathering brought together community leaders, artists, youth, elders, and public officials under the theme “Celebrating Our Legacies.” From 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., the program unfolded as a powerful tribute to Black history, resilience, and ongoing contributions to Canadian society.
The ceremony, anchored by community radio and television Host and Producer, Sarah Onyango, began with an opening drum performance by Wandara that immediately set a reflective and celebratory tone. This was followed by a Land Acknowledgement by Linda Grussani, which grounded the event in respect for Indigenous peoples and reinforced the interconnected histories of Black and Indigenous communities in Canada.
Music played a central role throughout the ceremony. A stirring rendition of O Canada led into “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the Black national anthem, drawing a standing response from many in the audience. These musical moments were followed by a Black Empowerment Statement of Truth, reinforcing themes of dignity, justice, and collective responsibility.
One of the most anticipated moments of the afternoon was the Black History Month Proclamation delivered by Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, who acknowledged the enduring contributions of Black communities to the city and the nation. A message from the federal government delivered by MP Yasir Naqvi followed.
The program also highlighted community-centred storytelling, including a dedicated segment on the OC Transpo bus mural, which celebrates Black history through public art and everyday visibility. This segment drew warm applause, underscoring the importance of representation in shared civic spaces.
A message from Black History Ottawa delivered by Vice President Jean-Marie Guerrier reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to cultural preservation and community advocacy. Performances were interwoven throughout the program, with songs and spoken word pieces offering moments of joy, reflection, and emotional resonance.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of commemorative items from national institutions. The Royal Canadian Mint Coin Unveiling and the Canada Post Stamp Unveiling marked significant milestones, symbolizing the recognition of Black history at a national level. These moments were met with pride and applause, particularly from elders who reflected on how far visibility and acknowledgment have come.
The latter part of the ceremony focused on awards and recognitions, celebrating individuals and organizations shaping the present and future. The awards spotlighted emerging voices making meaningful contributions and honoured long-standing dedication to service, advocacy, and cultural leadership.
The program concluded with closing remarks and a vote of thanks, acknowledging partners, volunteers,and the community members who made the event possible. The formal ceremony transitioned into a networking reception where conversations, reunions, and new connections filled the room.
More than an opening ceremony, the event stood as a reminder that Black history is not confined to the past. It is living, evolving, and deeply woven into Canada’s present and future. As attendees departed, there was a shared sense that Black History Month 2026 had begun not only with celebration, but with purpose.
