Jan. 27: Black History Month 2025

The purpose of this memo is to provide Mayor and Members of Council with information on planned activities to showcase the City’s commitment to and support for Black History Month 2025.

OC Transpo Bus Murals

The Gender and Race Equity, Inclusion, Indigenous Relations and Social Development team in CSSD has partnered with Transit Services to design a Black History Month mural for three OC Transpo double-decker buses – please see design below.

OC Transpo is pleased to support this project, which adds to the successful tradition of wrapping buses to celebrate 2SLGBTQQIA+ Pride, as part of its continued commitment to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging for staff and OC Transpo customers. The mural design was developed in close collaboration with Black History Ottawa and the City’s African, Caribbean, Black (ACB) Employees Network, and highlights the theme, “Legacies worth preserving, creating and celebrating.” Residents will have opportunities to see the murals while the buses are in service throughout the month of February.

National Arts Centre – Inaugural event

Black History Ottawa is hosting an event on February 1 at the National Arts Centre (NAC), at which the Mayor and Councillor King will speak. City staff have arranged to have one of the muraled buses on site at this event to serve as a strong visual representation of the City’s commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging. It will also recognize the importance of diversity in heritage and emphasize the City’s support in advancing the achievements and contributions of Black Canadians to Ottawa and Canada. If you are interested in attending, please register here.

Interactive Education Training for City Staff

In early February, City staff will be able to participate in an interactive education session where they will learn about historical sites that showcase the presence, experiences and contributions of Black Canadians in Ottawa.

This initiative will help create an increased understanding of the pioneers and trailblazers who have shaped Ottawa’s Black community and the cultural heritage and influences of Black Canadians. This educational initiative will help build individual and collective capacities to apply anti-racism approaches and address racial inequalities in both the workplace and the community.

The City is proud to contribute to Black History Month activities to recognize the achievements and contributions of Black Canadians.

Council Meeting – Black History Month Ceremony

At the February 12 City Council Meeting, Black History month will be officially recognized with a Black National Anthem “Lift Every Voice and Sing” performance by Ottawa’s Heavenly Voice Choir.

Following the anthem, Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and Councillor King will formerly address Council, staff and members of the public by honouring the Black community and City Staff.

City of Ottawa Archives will offer a brief glimpse into Ottawa’s Black history which will be displayed at City Hall for all visitors. A selection of panel images will also be featured on digital screens across the city.

Our relationship with the community and our employees, especially those from equity-denied groups, is of utmost importance. We recognize the value of contributions of the Black Community and the importance of their perspectives in shaping a more inclusive Ottawa. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where all voices are heard, respected, and valued.

Should you have any questions about these upcoming Black History Month activities, please contact [Redacted to remove personal information].

Sincerely,