Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the stories, leadership and achievements that have helped shape our city and our country. It is also a time to recognize that the history we celebrate is not only in the past. It is being written every day by the people who call Brampton home.
Brampton is proud to be home to a vibrant Black community of more than 85,000 residents whose contributions can be seen in every part of city life, from business and entrepreneurship to public service, education, culture and community leadership. Their impact continues to strengthen our city and help shape the future we are building together.
Watch the 2026 Black History Month Event
This year marks 30 years since Black History Month was officially recognized in Canada thanks to the leadership of Jean Augustine. Her work helped ensure that the stories, achievements and struggles of Black Canadians would be recognized and remembered for generations to come.
One of the highlights of this year’s celebrations was Brampton’s Black History Month event at the Rose Theatre on February 7. The evening brought residents together to celebrate Black culture, leadership and community through inspiring presentations and performances. A powerful keynote address from Justice Dr. Irving Andre reminded everyone in attendance of the importance of understanding our history and the role it plays in shaping the future.
Watch Justice Dr. Irving Andre
Justice Dr. Irving Andre reflected on the resilience and perseverance that have defined the Black experience in Canada. He reminded us that the opportunities available today were made possible through the courage and determination of earlier generations who fought for access to education, fairness and opportunity. Justice Andre spoke passionately about the importance of education, personal responsibility and community support, urging us to continue investing in young people and helping them recognize the potential within themselves. His remarks were both thoughtful and hopeful, reminding us that progress is built through perseverance.
Watch the Crawford Adventist Academy Choir
In Brampton, we are committed to not only celebrating those contributions but also creating opportunities for the next generation. Through programs that support Black entrepreneurs and innovators, the City continues to help local businesses launch, grow and succeed while strengthening our economy and expanding opportunity across our community.
We are also proud to recognize the trailblazers who helped pave the way. This year, City Council approved naming a street in honour of Ret. Sgt. Lonsdale (Lonny) Blackett, the first Black officer in Peel Regional Police. His decades of service and dedication to public safety helped open doors for future generations and left a lasting mark on our community.
Black History Month reminds us that the story of Brampton is a shared one, shaped by generations of leaders, innovators and community builders who believed in the promise of this city. As we celebrate their contributions, we also look ahead with optimism, knowing that the next generation of leaders will continue to shape Brampton in inspiring ways.
