Thirty years ago, the Honourable Jean Augustine established February as Black History Month in Canada. Not only was Jean Augustine the first Black woman elected to Parliament and the first Black Cabinet Minister, but her legacy continues to thrive. She helped ensure Black history would not only be remembered, but recognized as part of Canada’s national story.
Last week on Parliament Hill, that legacy continued.
ONE Canada was proud to sponsor and co-host the 30th Annual Black History Month Reception & Afterparty alongside the African Nova Scotia Justice Institute (ANSJI). The event brought together parliamentarians, community leaders, diaspora entrepreneurs, advocates, and policy thinkers to celebrate achievement and deepen engagement.
But this was more than a celebration! It was a reminder that representation must translate into influence, and that diaspora leadership belongs not just in the room, but at the center of policy conversations shaping Canada’s future.
Why This Moment Matters
More than 400 guests gathered on Parliament Hill, including Members of Parliament, Senators, civil society leaders, and private sector partners. The energy in the room reflected a growing recognition: Canada’s future prosperity, global engagement, and economic resilience are tied to its relationships with African and Caribbean communities at home and abroad.
Throughout the evening, conversations focused on shared priorities, strengthening Canada–Africa trade, advancing global health partnerships, and elevating diaspora voices in economic development and innovation. These are not symbolic issues. They are central to Canada’s long-term economic and geopolitical strategy.
For ONE, the party was an opportunity to connect directly with parliamentarians and partners about the importance of:
- Building a modern Canada–Africa strategy grounded in trade and opportunity.
- Supporting global health programs that protect lives and strengthen economic security.
- Shifting outdated narratives about the African continent toward innovation, growth, and partnership.
Recognizing ANSJI’s Leadership
We are especially grateful to the African Nova Scotia Justice Institute (ANSJI) for its leadership and collaboration. ANSJI’s work to advance justice, equity, and opportunity for African Nova Scotians reflects the broader theme of the evening: leadership rooted in community, accountability, and action.
By standing alongside ANSJI and other diaspora-led organizations, we reaffirm that meaningful policy change must be shaped by those closest to the issues. Their presence and participation strengthened the event and ensured that celebration was paired with substance.
From Celebration to Action
Events like this matter because relationships matter. Policy change does not happen in isolation; it happens through sustained engagement, trust, and coalition-building.
As Canada navigates a shifting global landscape, diaspora communities are uniquely positioned to bridge markets, strengthen partnerships, and expand Canada’s global reach. The connections built at this year’s Black History Month Afterparty will inform our continued work on economic opportunity, global health, and Canada’s engagement with the African continent.
Celebrating history is important. Building the future is essential! We look forward to continuing this work, alongside parliamentarians, partners, and diaspora leaders, in the months ahead.
Photo credit: Emy, eworldmultimedia.ca