Every February marks Black History Month in Canada, providing Canadians with the opportunity to learn about and celebrate the accomplishments of Canadians who trace their family heritage to Africa and the Caribbean.

Travelling throughout Saskatchewan and the Yorkton-Melville constituency these days, I note something very different from when I first became a Member of Parliament – many more black people have become an integral part of many prairie communities.

Black Canadians have had a difficult journey in overcoming prejudice and discrimination. The stories of historic communities like Africville in Halifax and Hogan’s Alley in Vancouver remind us of that journey. But by remembering the history and contributions of black communities in Canadian history, we gain a better understanding of our shared Canadian heritage. Indeed, the struggles and achievements of black Canadians have helped build the Canada of today.

Throughout Canada’s proud military history, thousands of black Canadian soldiers have courageously served our country. From the American War of Independence onwards, black Canadians have fought and died in Canada’s wars, and military campaigns.

But Black History Month is also an opportunity to honour the legacy of individual black Canadians, past and present, whose achievements and contributions have enriched the Canadian experience. From Harriet Tubman who led hundreds of slaves to freedom in Canada along the Underground Railroad, to Lincoln Alexander, Canada’s first black Member of Parliament, to Willie O’Ree, the first black Canadian to play in the NHL, our Canadian heritage is filled with black Canadians who have helped make Canada the culturally diverse, benevolent and prosperous country that it is today.

Saskatchewan has its own stories of black history. It comes as a surprise to many that dozens of African-American families arrived in Saskatchewan in 1910, homesteading in the Eldon district north of Maidstone, the oldest of the black group settlements in Western Canada. The community is home to the only black cemetery in Saskatchewan.

Canadian heritage includes black history. It’s part of our shared heritage. This month I encourage you to learn more about the stories and experiences of black Canadians by participating in one of the many events taking place in honour of Black History Month. You can also explore many stories at www.cic.gc.ca  by typing “Black History Virtual Museum” in the search field.

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