Dozens of events lined up to mark Black History Month in Mississauga

Mississauga is hosting dozens of events, exhibits, tours and other activities throughout the next four weeks to mark Black History Month.

Each February, Black History Month provides the opportunity for celebration and serves as a strong reminder that Black history is our history, City of Mississauga officials said in a news release listing the many things planned throughout February.

In partnership with the Black Caucus Alliance, the City will recognize the accomplishments of Mississauga’s Black community and shine a spotlight on talented artists, authors, musicians and more who are amplifying local Black voices and stories, officials say.

The Black Caucus Alliance is a group of Black community members that advises Mayor Bonnie Crombie on issues affecting Black communities.

“Black History Month is a time for education, reflection and celebration in Mississauga. Diversity truly makes Mississauga shine, and we are committed to supporting the rich culture, heritage and history of Black Canadians in our city,” said Crombie in the news release. “While we have taken many positive steps forward, we acknowledge that there is more work to do as a City and community to tackle systemic anti-Black racism and discrimination. Through the leadership of the Black Caucus and their Black Community Engagement Report, the City of Mississauga has a blueprint to empower and create more space for the Black community, and will continue to make progress to move these recommendations forward.”

A variety of events, exhibitions, activities and programs will be taking place throughout February.

“We are pleased to continue to work with the City of Mississauga addressing anti-Black racism and working to create a more inclusive, equitable and accessible city,” said Linden King, chair of the Black Caucus Alliance. “Celebrating Black History Month and hosting an evening of celebration to recognize those in the Black community is one way we can showcase the beauty of our Black culture and raise awareness about injustices we continue to face.”

The following are taking place in February across Mississauga to mark Black History Month:

• Raptors 905 vs Cleveland Charge basketball game: Feb. 2, 7:30 p.m. at Paramount Fine Foods Centre
• Black History Month: Feb. 2, starting at 6:30 p.m., at Malton Library
• Africville Stories: Feb. 3, 8 to 10 p.m., at the Living Arts Centre
• Unearth Uncover exhibit: Feb. 7-25, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Small Arms Inspection Building
• Author Talk: Zalika Reid-Banta, Feb. 22, 7 to 8 p.m., virtual event
• Cirque Kalabante — Afrique en Cirque: Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m., at the Living Arts Centre
• Black History Month Market: Feb. 24, 4 to 9 p.m., at Small Arms Inspection Building
• Celebrating Black Excellence: Feb. 24, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Mississauga City Hall, in the Great Hall
• Tours: Black History in Ontario Museum (at Bradley Museum) and Cedar Park and Cherry Hill House–Mississauga’s Forgotten Black History (Benares Historic House) run the entire month

For more information and more events, visit the City of Mississauga website.