Vancouver celebrates Black History Month

Anyone strolling by Vancouver City Hall or the Burrard Street bridge Thursday evening will have noticed they were both lit up in black, red, green, and gold colours.

This is in honour of Black History Month, the City of Vancouver says.

“Vancouver thrives thanks to the vibrant cultural and economic contributions of the Black and African diaspora communities,” Mayor Ken Sim said. “Our city is committed to promoting equity and combating racism for these communities.”

The City of Vancouver is encouraging people to support businesses owned by members of Black and African communities.

“As we honour Black History Month, let us unite in supporting the numerous Black and African diaspora entrepreneurs in Vancouver – not just in February, but year-round, as we strive to build an inclusive and flourishing community for all,” Sim said.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also issued a statement to mark Black History Month, saying Canada can and must do better to combat racism.

“Canada’s painful history of anti-Black racism continues to impact communities across the country,” Trudeau said. “In 2018, we officially recognized the United Nations’ International Decade for People of African Descent. This initiative, centred on recognition, justice, development, and fighting discrimination, helps us build frameworks to empower Black communities and advance our work to combat racism, discrimination, and xenophobia faced by those of African descent.”

Black History Month begins each year on the first day of February.