February 21, 2007

Black History Month

Black History Month is celebrated in Canada to recognize the contributions and achievements of Black peoples to the growth and development of this country and their importance to Canada’s history.

It's more than 80 years ago since Black American scholar and historian Carter G. Woodson started Black History Week to highlight the contributions of Black peoples.  In December 1995, the Parliament of Canada officially recognized February as Black History Month, following a motion introduced by the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament, the Honourable Jean Augustine, M.P. of Etobicoke-Lakeshore.

PSAC would like to take this opportunity to recognize the important sacrifices and contributions of people of African heritage to the nation-building of Canada since the early 1600s.

The proud, rich history and heritage of African Canadians can no longer be ignored. Society, schools, governments and unions must address the systemic exclusion that has been practised by our institutions, omitting or devaluing the experiences of our African Canadian sisters and brothers.

The PSAC has committed itself to bringing this inequity to the forefront of the struggle and finding systemic solutions to this systemic problem.  Part of this solution is the Union’s Defending Quality Public Service framework, which aims to protect and promote accessible and equitable public services for all Canadians. PSAC reaffirms its commitment to combating racism in the workplace and the Union and extends this invitation to every PSAC member to contribute to the forging of solidarity between all Sisters and Brothers.

The PSAC is encouraging its members to commemorate Black History Month by organizing or participating in an event that raises awareness about this month, particularly the contributions of Black workers in the Canadian labour movement.  Notify the PSAC’s Programs Section of any activities you hold by calling (613) 560-4387 or by e-mail at lambas@psac.com.