History through storytelling
City of Vaughan recognizes Black History Month
February is Black History Month, a time to honour the historical achievements, contributions and challenges of diverse Black individuals and communities.
As part of this year’s recognition, the City of Vaughan is sharing stories that highlight the lived experiences of Black Canadians throughout history, such as Mammy Long, an enslaved woman who endured forced labour in the White family’s household in the late 1700s. After being enslaved on their plantation in Vermont, Mammy Long continued to serve the White family when they settled in Concord, Ontario in 1795.
Her story is a reminder of the limitations of the Act to Limit Slavery, passed in Upper Canada in 1793, which declared, “No enslaved people could be imported into the province; any enslaved people brought into Upper Canada would be freed automatically.” Despite the legislation, Mammy was not freed and was forced to continue working as a house servant, responsible for tasks such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, mending and childcare.
By sharing stories like Mammy’s, the City acknowledges the injustices of the past and reaffirms our ongoing commitment to building a more just and equitable future. The City recognizes that anti-Black racism is perpetual, pervasive and systemic in Canada, and has created a strategy to address anti-Black racism in all its forms at the municipal level – the Reimagining Black Futures in Vaughan: Addressing Anti-Black Racism Action Plan 2024-2031 (PDF).
This eight-year Council-approved action plan outlines the steps the City is taking to improve municipal programs, policies and procedures to address anti-Black racism, and ensure full and meaningful participation of the Black community in services, events and general city life.
The action plan was developed in collaboration with Black residents, leaders, community groups, organizations and businesses in the city. A survey, community consultations and workshops were facilitated with diverse Black communities, including seniors, youth, newcomers, members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community and business owners, to collect feedback and understand perspectives on anti-Black racism in the city, experiences with City events and services, communications, business development and other areas of focus. Their insights, perspectives and recommendations helped shape the objectives, key actions and accountability measures within the action plan.
Celebrate Black History Month with us
On Saturday, Feb. 22 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., the City invites everyone to recognize and celebrate Black History Month with Mayor Steven Del Duca and Members of Council in the Vaughan City Hall atrium (2141 Major Mackenzie Dr.). Join us for official remarks, Afro-Caribbean and urban dances, drum performances, complimentary refreshments and more.
The event will also feature Black-owned and Black-led businesses, organizations and creatives, providing a platform to showcase their work and engage with the public.
Pre-registration is encouraged. Confirm your attendance for the event online. To learn more about the City’s annual Black History Month event and other programs offered throughout the month, visit vaughan.ca/culture.
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