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Participate in upcoming Black History Month (BHM) events

February is Black History Month, and the Town of Ajax celebrates all month long. The Town is celebrating through dynamic programming, learning opportunities and spaces that uplift Black voices, stories and culture.

This year’s theme, “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations – From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries” invites us to reflect on the legacy of those who laid the groundwork, while shining a light on the young people who are actively shaping what comes next. As we honour historic contributions, we also celebrate the present and future defined by Black excellence, resilience, creativity and courage.

To help bring the community together, the Town of Ajax has created a Black History Month events calendar designed to connect residents, businesses and community organizations with celebrations happening across Ajax and the Durham Region. We encourage everyone to take part, learn, reflect and celebrate together.

BHM Events:

  • Together We Rise: Durham Regional Black History Legacy Celebration | February 3 at 5:30 – 8 p.m. | Milestone Christian Centre (610 Monarch Avenue, Ajax) | Register and learn more.  
  • TIFF Ajax Film Circuit presents “Exhibiting Forgiveness” | February 6 at 7 – 9 p.m. | St. Francis Centre for the Community, Arts and Culture (78 Church Street South, Ajax) | Tickets, register and learn more.  
  • Reshaping the Culture, Community Conference | February 7 at 12 – 5 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre, Community Hall (1955 Audley Road North) | Register and learn more. 
  • Cultural Expressions for Change – The Next Ten (19th Annual Black History Month Celebration) | February 8 at 2 p.m.| J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate (1355 Harwood Ave. N, Ajax) | Register and learn more.  
  • Town of Ajax, DRABPE and Toronto Black Film Festival Presents: Black Visionaries on the Big Screen | February 10 at 5:30 – 9 p.m. | St. Francis Centre for the Community, Arts and Culture (78 Church Street South, Ajax) | Registration details coming soon. Visit ajax.ca/BHM for details. 
  • BlackLit Durham: The History of Black Joy – BHM 2026 Showcase | February 18 at 7 – 9 p.m. | St. Francis Centre for the Community, Arts and Culture (78 Church Street South, Ajax) | Register and learn more.
  • 2nd Annual Black Health and Wellness Day: Embracing the theme of Agency | February 28 at 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Canada Event Centre (300 Water St., Whitby) | Register and learn more.  
  • Motown Mania: A Tribute to Motown | March 28 at 7 – 9 p.m. | St. Francis Centre for the Community, Arts and Culture (78 Church Street South, Ajax) | Tickets, register and learn more.

A full list of local events is available at ajax.ca/BHM. The listing is being updated throughout the month of February; events can be emailed to diversity@ajax.ca for inclusion. 

Quotes

“As February is observed as Black History Month across Canada, it is an opportunity to learn from and celebrate the history and contributions of Canadians of African and Caribbean descent. From past to present, their leadership, resilience, and continued success help shape a more inclusive future; work that extends far beyond this month. I encourage residents to visit ajax.ca/BHM to explore Black History Month events taking place in Ajax and across the Region.” – Shaun Collier, Mayor and CEO, Town of Ajax

“During Black History Month, the contributions and achievements of Black leaders, artists and innovators are remembered, honoured and celebrated. Join TOA in shining a light on the many contributions of the Black community, while continuing to grow and learn together. All are encouraged to check out the 2026 BHM events in Ajax and throughout the Region.” – Yasmyn Belle, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer, Town of Ajax     

Quick Facts

  • Ajax is one of the most diverse municipalities in Durham Region, with a strong and growing Black community whose roots span the Caribbean, Africa and the Black Canadian experience. 
  • Black History Month has been officially recognized in Canada since 1995. Municipalities like Ajax play an important role in bringing it to life locally through libraries, schools, recreation spaces and community partnerships. 
  • There are over 31 Black-owned businesses listed in Ajax’s business directory at ajax.ca/Directory.
    • Business owners interested in being included in the directory can contact priority@ajax.ca. 
  • The Ajax Anti-Racism Task Force focuses on anti-racism through multiple lenses, including addressing anti-Black racism and its intersection with other forms of oppression.  
  • The Task Force has supported and delivered events for Black parents/caregivers navigating the school system, supported community agencies raise awareness and dialogue around Missing Black Boys, and delivered community programming throughout Black History Month and Emancipation Day. The Task Force is currently developing an inclusive business toolkit to support business owners in implementing best practices for inclusive employment, including addressing anti-Black racism in the workplace. 
  • This Black History Month listing was produced by the Town of Ajax to promote events taking place in Ajax and across the Region of Durham. The listing is updated throughout the month. Event submissions can be sent to diversity@ajax.ca. 

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