Black History Month in Canada serves as a vital reminder of the immense contributions Black Canadians have made to our nation's society, culture and economy . However, limiting our recognition and appreciation for Black excellence to a single month ignores the significant contributions made by Black Canadians every day. Representation matters every day, not just in February, and amplifying the achievements and voices of Black Canadians throughout the year is crucial for fostering an equitable and inclusive society.
As a Black immigrant, mother, lawyer and business owner in Canada, I understand firsthand the transformative power of positive representation. Seeing faces that reflect my own across media, workplaces, and everyday life isn't just a feel-good notion; it's a necessity. For my children, it shatters limiting stereotypes and ignites their belief in their own limitless potential. For young Black Canadians navigating complex identities, it whispers a powerful message: "You belong here, your voice matters, and your dreams are achievable." It fosters a sense of belonging, dismantling harmful narratives and paving the way for a future where they flourish, not merely survive. For myself and countless others, seeing Black excellence celebrated beyond February empowers us, fuels our ambition, and fuels our fight for a truly equitable society. It's the silent support, the unspoken validation, the constant reminder that despite the challenges, we are seen, we are valued, and we are not alone. In this ongoing journey towards inclusion, representation isn't just a bonus; it's the very foundation for building a Canada where every Black individual, immigrant or otherwise, can thrive.
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Black Immigration To Canada
The Black immigrant experience in Canada is multifaceted, marked by both hope and hardship. While Canada offers escape from persecution and the promise of opportunity, Black immigrants often face systemic barriers like racism, discrimination in housing and employment and challenges in credential recognition. Despite these obstacles, many Black immigrants contribute significantly to Canadian society, enriching communities with their diverse cultures and entrepreneurial spirit. Recognizing these unique experiences and addressing the challenges they face is crucial for building a truly inclusive and equitable Canada.
Black immigrants in Canada often carry the additional burden of navigating unfamiliar cultural norms and language barriers alongside systemic racism. Confined to the margins of a society that rarely reflects their stories, Black immigrant experiences are often erased, their achievements overlooked. Seeing themselves reflected in positions of leadership, from entrepreneurs to educators, empowers Black youth to break down barriers and chart their own paths. Representation fosters understanding, bridges cultural divides and paves the way for a more inclusive Canada where Black immigrants no longer exist in the shadows, but stand proudly alongside their fellow citizens, their voices shaping a brighter future for all.
Black History Month 2024
Statistics Canada reports that:
- Canada's Black population reached 1.5 million in 2021, 4.3% of the total population.
- The Black population is expected to reach more than 3.0 million by 2041.
- In 2021, over 40.9% of the Black population was Canadian-born.
These numbers highlight the urgent need for ongoing efforts to dismantle systemic barriers to integration of Black newcomers and create opportunities for Black Canadians to thrive. Representation plays a critical role in this process.
Why Representation Matters for Black Canadians
1. Black Excellence as Inspiration:
Figures like the late Lieutenant-General Lincoln Alexander of Ontario, the first Black Canadian to hold this prestigious military rank, serve as powerful symbols of achievement. His story, along with countless others, demonstrates the limitless potential within the Black community and inspires young Black Canadians to dream big and pursue their goals.
2. Role Models for Young Minds:
Seeing Black Canadians in positions of leadership, from doctors and lawyers to entrepreneurs and teachers, dismantles harmful stereotypes and provides essential role models for young children. Exposure to diverse representation fosters a sense of belonging and empowers young Black Canadians to believe in their own possibilities.
3. Mentorship and Guidance:
Black business owners and entrepreneurs serve as invaluable mentors for young adults navigating the often-challenging path of starting and running their own businesses. Their lived experiences, coupled with their expertise and willingness to share, provide crucial guidance and support for the next generation of Black leaders.
4. Building a More Equitable Future:
Amplifying Black voices in every facet of society enriches our national discourse and leads to more informed and inclusive policies. When Black perspectives and experiences are represented at decision-making tables, solutions are more likely to address the systemic challenges faced by Black Canadians.
How Canadian Black Professionals and Business Owners Can Amplify Black Voices and Black Visibility Every Day
As the owner of an immigration law firm in Calgary, I'm deeply invested in fostering a future where the legal field reflects the rich diversity of our nation. Witnessing the underrepresentation of Black Canadians in this profession, however, fueled a personal mission: to mentor and hire young, educated, and talented Black individuals. This goes beyond fulfilling a social obligation; it's a strategic choice grounded in a firm belief in their immense potential.
1. Firstly, I recognize the power of mentorship. Sharing my journey, offering guidance and creating a space for open dialogue empower these young minds to navigate the often-intimidating legal landscape. Seeing themselves reflected in a position of leadership fosters a sense of belonging and dismantles the perception of law as an inaccessible space.
2. Secondly, their unique experiences and perspectives enrich our firm's culture and approach to cases. Their lived understandings of navigating a legal system as a Black individual provide invaluable insights, ensuring our services are sensitive and cater to diverse needs. This, in turn, strengthens our firm's reputation and allows us to better serve the community.
3. Furthermore, hiring Black talent throughout my 17 years of law doesn't just benefit our firm, it benefits the entire legal profession. By creating opportunities and nurturing Black legal minds, we contribute to dismantling systemic barriers and diversifying the legal landscape. This leads to richer discussions, more informed legal solutions, and ultimately, a fairer justice system for all.
My commitment extends beyond my firm. I support initiatives that connect Black students and aspiring lawyers, such as workshops, mock interviews and networking opportunities. Witnessing their enthusiasm and growth reaffirms my belief that investing in Black talent is not just the right thing to do, it's a catalyst for positive change within the legal field and Canadian society as a whole.
Moving Forward Beyond February
Black History Month serves as a springboard, not an endpoint. Let us honour the legacy of Black Canadians by working towards a future where:
- Representation is normalized: Black Canadians are seen and heard not just in February, but throughout the year, across all sectors of society.
- Systemic barriers are dismantled: We actively work to eliminate discriminatory practices that hinder Black Canadians' advancement.
- Opportunities are equitable: All Canadians, regardless of race or origin, have the chance to reach their full potential.
By working together, we can create a Canada where Black Excellence is celebrated every day, not just during a designated month. Let us as Black Canadians leverage the power of representation to build a more inclusive and equitable future for all Canadians.
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Evelyn Ackah: Immigration Lawyer • Legal Entrepreneur • Speaker
Evelyn Ackah, Calgary immigration lawyer and founder of Ackah Business Immigration Law, will be speaking on Beyond February: Why Representation Matters for Black Canadians on February 29 at The Breakfast Club, a monthly event presented by Lean In Calgary. During her talk, Evelyn will be sharing her journey from Bay Street to Bankers Hall.
Do you need a speaker for your event?
Contact lawyer, entrepreneur and speaker Evelyn Ackah
eackah@ackahlaw.com
403.452.9515
Evelyn Ackah Media Kit and Speaking Topics
