February 1 marks the beginning of Black History Month (also known as African Heritage month). Black History Month is a time to celebrate and highlight the best of Black history and culture, and to honour the historic leaders of Black communities, their accomplishments and their enduring fight for freedom.

It is also a time for all Canadians to reflect and educate ourselves on the history of Black enslavement, discrimination, bigotry and criminalization of people of African descent. 

Canadian society has seen a lot of progress over the decades, but the realities of differential treatment towards African Canadians continue.

At our 2019 National Convention, delegates adopted a resolution to create our own anti-racism/anti-Black racism strategy for members in the union and workplace. Our goal is to ensure that all Black, Indigenous and racialized members do not face barriers and violent acts of racism, discrimination and bigotry.

Our union is committed to fighting racism and hatred in all its forms, and to empower our members to speak out and act against discrimination. We encourage members to celebrate Black History Month and to keep fighting anti-Black racism in their locals, workplaces, schools and communities.

For more information checkout the CUPE National page here.