02/24/2026
🖤 Black History Month – A Call to Love, Justice, and Reconciliation 🖤
During Black History Month, we pause to honour the strength, faith, leadership, and resilience of Black communities, past and present. We also reflect honestly on the history of racism and exclusion that continues to shape our society and our institutions.
As people of faith, we understand that human dignity is not optional. It is sacred.
Scripture reminds us: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” ~ Galatians 3:28
And again: “Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” ~ Micah 6:8
Black History Month is not only about remembrance, it is about responsibility. Through a human rights lens, we affirm that racial identity and cultural expression are part of God’s design and worthy of protection, celebration, and respect. Racism, whether overt or subtle, stands in opposition to both the Gospel and the principles of human rights.
The Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. reminded us: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
Love is not passive. Love seeks justice. Love repairs harm. Love listens. Love reconciles.
As a congregation, we acknowledge that reconciliation requires humility, truth-telling and courageous action. We commit ourselves to being a church where Black voices are heard, honoured, and welcomed, not just in February, but always.
We pray for hearts that are open.
We commit to learning where we have been silent.
We choose love over fear.
We choose justice over comfort.
May we be a community where every person knows they are created in the image of God, fully accepted, fully valued and fully loved.
“Let all that you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14
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Honouring the Legacy and Leadership of Black Canadians
Black Canadians have played a foundational role in shaping the social, political, cultural and economic fabric of our country. Through courage, excellence, advocacy and public service, generations of Black leaders have challenged injustice, strengthened democracy and expanded opportunities for all. This month, we recognize and honour some of the individuals whose contributions continue to inspire meaningful change.
Advancing Civil Rights and Justice
In 1946, Viola Desmond courageously refused to leave a segregated section of a Nova Scotia theatre. Her stand against racial discrimination occurred nearly a decade before similar protests in the United States and became a defining moment in Canada’s civil rights history. Today, her legacy symbolizes dignity, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality.
Jean Augustine, the first Black woman elected to Canada’s House of Commons, was instrumental in having February officially recognized as Black History Month in Canada. Her lifelong advocacy for education, women’s rights, and community empowerment has left an enduring mark on public policy and national awareness.
Breaking Barriers in Public Office
Representation matters in democratic institutions. Lincoln Alexander made history as Canada’s first Black Member of Parliament, federal Cabinet minister, and later Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. Throughout his career, he championed youth engagement and access to education.
Similarly, Michaëlle Jean, Canada’s 27th Governor General, brought a powerful voice for inclusion, cultural dialogue, and global engagement. As the first Black person and first Haitian Canadian to serve in the role, she broadened the national conversation about identity and belonging.
Excellence in Arts, Culture, and Sport
Black Canadians have also profoundly shaped our cultural and athletic landscape. Internationally acclaimed jazz pianist Oscar Peterson elevated Canada’s presence in the global arts community while speaking out against racism through his music and advocacy.
Olympic champion Donovan Bailey captured national pride when he won gold and set a world record in the 100 metres at the 1996 Olympic Games. His achievement remains one of Canada’s most celebrated sporting moments.
Trailblazing contralto Portia White broke racial barriers in classical music, opening doors for future generations of performers.
Pioneers in Professional and Community Leadership
Canada’s first licensed Black physician, Dr. Anderson Ruffin Abbott, not only practiced medicine during a time of profound racial discrimination but also advocated for education and civil rights.
More recently, Wanda Thomas Bernard has dedicated her career to advancing mental health awareness, social justice, and equity as a social worker, educator, and Senator.
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The stories of these leaders remind us that progress is built through courage, persistence, and community. Honouring Black Canadians is not only about recognizing past achievements, it is also about committing ourselves to ongoing equity, inclusion and reconciliation in our workplaces, institutions and communities.
Leila ᓖᓚ Paugh ᐹ
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