‘Important time’: North Peace politicians join national figures to mark Black History Month’s 30th anniversary

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Local public figures have made statements to mark Black History Month, celebrated annually in February.

Initially launched in the United States as a single week in 1926, it later expanded to include the entire month of February in 1970.

Now celebrated in other parts of the world, Canada has observed Black History Month annually since 1996 after it was recognized in December 1995.

In Fort St. John, both Peace River North MLA Jordan Kealy and the city’s mayor, Lilia Hansen, have made statements in support of Black History Month.

Kealy expressed interest in hearing stories about the way the black community contributed to the building of the Peace region, including black American soldiers assisting with the construction of the Sikanni Bridge.

“I think it is good to be able to appreciate the months where you can hear about the different stories,” said Kealy. “It doesn’t matter what creed or culture you come from, I always try to see and appreciate the things that have been seen built or inspired by others in our own region.”

Meanwhile, Hansen also issued a statement about Black History Month, although the city does not have any formal plans to host celebrations commemorating the occasion.

“Black History Month is an important time to honour the contributions and experiences of black Canadians,” said Hansen. “Here in Fort St. John, we value the diversity that strengthens our community and remain committed to fostering inclusion and understanding for everyone who calls our city home.”

For 2026, the federal government unveiled the theme of the month as ‘honouring black brilliance across generations – from nation builders to tomorrow’s visionaries’ on Sunday, February 1st.

Prime Minister Mark Carney said in a press release: “Black Canadians have played a vital role in building this nation, leading global companies that drive investment into Canada and creating dynamic local businesses and institutions that build strong communities.”

Meanwhile, federal Canadian identity and culture and minister responsible for official languages, Marc Miller, said this year’s theme “invites us to reflect on how far we’ve come and to pay tribute to black Canadians who have helped build up the country and move it forward.

“For more than four centuries, black communities have contributed to Canada’s social, cultural, scientific, academic and economic development. Whether it’s the Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine, who initiated recognition of Black History Month in Canada; Dr. Yvette Bonny, a pioneer in hematology who performed the first pediatric bone marrow transplant in Quebec; or Elkin James, a wrestler and artist who co-founded a wrestling school in Toronto, exceptional people inspire today’s generations to dream, grow and thrive.”

Meanwhile, the province’s premier, David Eby, spoke of the extensive history of black people within British Columbia, including Vancouver Island’s first militia, the Victoria Pioneer Rifle Corps.

According to the Canadian Encyclopedia, it was formed in 1860 by mostly black people migrating from California. Considered the first all-black British militia formed west of Ontario, it had dissolved by 1866 when most members moved back to the United States.

“Black Canadians in British Columbia have made numerous contributions,” said Eby. “We should all feel pride in their accomplishments even as we acknowledge the unjust barriers black people face in their daily lives.”

On the topic of anti-black racism, Eby says his government “remains committed to fighting all forms of anti-black racism as we build a more just and equitable society for all.” 

He said: “Learning more about black history here and around the world enriches us all.”

Black History Month runs until February 28th.