The City of Brampton, through its Black Empowerment Unit, is set to host a vibrant series of events in February to celebrate Black History Month, recognizing the achievements, contributions, and rich cultural heritage of Black Canadians.
To mark the beginning of the month-long celebrations, the Brampton City Hall Clock Tower will be illuminated in red, yellow, and green on February 1. Gwyneth Chapman, Supervisor of the Black Empowerment Unit, emphasized that Black History Month is not just about looking back but also about fostering equity, empowerment, and education.
“We honour the past, celebrate the present, and work towards a future where the contributions of the Black community in Brampton are fully recognized and valued,” said Chapman in a statement.
Key Black History Month Events in Brampton:
- Standing on the Shoulders of Giants – Black Youth Making History
February 2 | 4:00 – 9:30 PM | The Rose Brampton, 1 Theatre Lane
This event will feature inspiring youth performances, leadership awards, and a fireside chat with renowned actor and activist Danny Glover. Moderated by Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and Gwyneth Chapman, the event will also honour Zanana Akande, the first Black female cabinet minister in Canada, with a VIP reception preceding the program. Limited tickets are available for purchase via Brampton On Stage or at The Rose Box Office. - Black History Month Celebration: The Story of Gloria Baylis Brought to Life
February 7 | 7:00 – 9:00 PM | Cyril Clark Lecture Theatre, 20 Loafers Lake Lane
This event will pay tribute to Gloria Baylis, a Barbadian Canadian pioneer in workplace equity, with a dramatic play performed by Mayfield Secondary School students, followed by a panel discussion featuring members of Baylis’ family. Free registration is available on Eventbrite. - Drums et Al: Tales by Moonlight
February 8 | 10:30 – 11:30 AM | Mount Pleasant Village Library, 100 Commuter Dr.
This interactive event, led by award-winning African storyteller and musician Babarinde Williams, will revive the ancient tradition of storytelling and riddles under the moonlight through hand drumming and dance. - Brampton Ignite Networking Group Event
February 12 | 6:30 – 9:00 PM | Brampton Entrepreneur Centre, 41 George St. S.
A networking event where local business owners from the Black community will share their experiences of resilience, passion, and success. Free tickets are available on Eventbrite. - AI Made Easy: Bias in AI
February 13 | 6:00 – 8:00 PM | Chinguacousy Library (Chinguacousy Park Ski Chalet), 9050 Bramalea Rd.
A workshop by Edwina McKennon from FuturIQ Inc., demystifying artificial intelligence and addressing issues of bias in AI. Suitable for beginners and those interested in practical AI applications. - The Black Actors Film Guild Canada’s Annual Convention and the Canadian Black Screen Awards
February 15 | 3:00 – 9:30 PM | Brampton City Hall Conservatory, 2 Wellington St. W.
This convention will feature guest speakers, insightful panel discussions, and networking opportunities, culminating in the prestigious Canadian Black Screen Awards, which recognize excellence in arts, culture, and community service. - Brampton Startup Youth Huddle
February 18 | 6:00 – 8:00 PM | Brampton Four Corners Library, 65 Queen St. E.
Featuring distinguished Black entrepreneurs sharing insights on launching and growing successful businesses. Free registration is available on Eventbrite. - Brampton Tech Talks: Highlighting Black Entrepreneurs
February 20 | 7:00 – 8:30 PM | Springdale Library, 10705 Bramalea Rd.
Hosted by the Economic Development Office, this discussion will spotlight success stories of Black-owned businesses in Brampton. - Pan-African Flag Raising
February 21 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM | Ken Whillans Square, 41 Main St. S.
A ceremonial flag raising to honour Pan-African heritage. - Soulful Creations – A Celebration of Black Art and Cuisine
February 21 | 5:00 – 8:00 PM | Susan Fennell Sportsplex Youth Hub, 500 Ray Lawson Blvd.
A cultural experience featuring authentic Black cuisine and creative art workshops inspired by renowned Black artists. Registration required. - Black History Month Career Expo
February 25 | 3:00 – 7:00 PM | Century Gardens Recreation Centre, 340 Vodden St. E.
Attendees will explore career opportunities with city staff and Black community partners. - Tales Woven in Hair: A Braiding Workshop
February 25 | 6:00 – 8:00 PM | Gore Meadows Library, 10150 The Gore Rd.
Participants will learn about historical braiding styles and create their own braid art. Registration required. - Black Empowerment Unit School Event
February 27 | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | The Rose Brampton, 1 Theatre Lane
A gathering of Brampton’s Black youth, celebrating the achievements of Black Canadians and fostering opportunities for future generations.
Throughout February, Brampton On Stage will also feature performances curated by Jemane Kent, including HYPE on February 6 and Jully Black on February 14. Visit Brampton On Stage’s website for more information.
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown encouraged the community to participate in the month’s events, stating: “In Brampton, we are proud to honour Black excellence through diverse events and programming that educate, inspire, and bring our community together. I encourage everyone to take part in the celebrations this February as we continue to build a more inclusive and equitable city.”