Each February, people across Canada come together to participate in Black History Month events and celebrations that honour the legacy and contributions of Black people in Canada and within their local communities. It is a time for learning, reflection, and celebration—an opportunity to recognize the history that has shaped our nation and continues to inspire future generations.
The 2026 theme for Black History Month, “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries,” marks three decades of Black History Month in Canada. This theme highlights the enduring contributions of Black Canadians across time, recognizing the nation builders who advanced civil rights, championed social justice, and helped shape Canada’s cultural, political, and economic landscape. At the same time, it looks ahead to tomorrow’s visionaries—the emerging leaders, innovators, and changemakers who continue to redefine excellence and possibility in every field.
Reflecting on the significance of the theme, Lisa Demers, Director of Education, shared:
“Black History Month invites us to honour the brilliance, faith, courage, and leadership of Black Canadians who have helped shape our country and our communities. As a Catholic school board, we also take this time to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of Black staff and students within St. Clair Catholic, whose gifts, voices, and leadership enrich our schools each day. This month calls our students to live out the Gospel values of dignity, justice, and love for one another, while embracing the diversity that reflects God’s beautiful creation.”
Across St. Clair Catholic, students and staff will engage in a wide range of activities, events, and celebrations throughout February to honour the legacy and contributions of Black Canadians.
At St. Patrick’s Catholic High School in Sarnia, morning announcements will feature daily segments highlighting inspiring Black Canadians. These individuals are also being showcased on posters displayed throughout the school, creating visible reminders of Black excellence and achievement.
At Ursuline College Chatham (UCC), students and staff are looking forward to a Black History Month panel discussion featuring members of UCC’s United Alliance alongside Black professionals from across Chatham-Kent. This meaningful event is being organized by Pelumi Akinyemi, Black Graduation Coach at UCC, and will provide students with the opportunity to hear personal stories, gain insight, and engage in thoughtful discussion. In addition, a special event featuring members of UCC’s United Alliance is also in the works, further enriching the school’s Black History Month celebrations.
Across elementary schools throughout the district, students will participate in a variety of age-appropriate activities designed to honour the legacy and contributions of Black Canadians, fostering understanding, respect, and appreciation.
Students and staff will also have opportunities to deepen their learning through in-person and virtual tours of important local heritage sites, including the Buxton National Historic Site and Museum and the Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History. These experiences connect students directly to the powerful stories of Black Canadians whose knowledge and leadership helped shape our region and our country.
Black History Month is a celebration of excellence, resilience, and hope. As we mark 30 years of recognition in Canada, St. Clair Catholic remains committed to honouring the past, celebrating the present, and supporting a future where every student is empowered to thrive—guided by faith, dignity, and respect for all.