1/30/2011 4:14:33 PM

January 26, 2011

February is Black History Month in Toronto

Mayor Rob Ford will proclaim February as Black History Month, a celebration of the history, heritage and contributions of African-Canadians.

"Our diverse Black community is such a vibrant part of what makes Toronto a great city, and Black history is an important part of Toronto's history," said Mayor Rob Ford. "This is a great opportunity to celebrate their invaluable contributions to this city, and to our country."

The City’s 2011 recognition of Black History Month includes exhibits, poster launches, concerts, presentations and readings. More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/blackhistory.

Black History Month will be launched in the Council Chamber of Toronto City Hall with lecture/discussion called Haiti Renaissance/Renaissance d'Haiti. Guest speakers will discuss the history and culture of Haiti, and its significance to the larger community of people of African descent.

On Saturdays and Sundays throughout February, Mackenzie House (a City of Toronto Historic Museum) will lead tours that will focus on the early Black community in Toronto, including those who published newspapers.

Toronto Public Library will feature visits and interviews by new and emerging authors, spoken word poets, musicians and journalists. The Toronto Public Library also holds more than 16,000 items in the Rita Cox Black and Caribbean Heritage Collection. For more information visit http://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca.