Honouring legacy and celebrating youth this Black History Month

Black History Month is a time to honour and celebrate the contributions that Black Canadians have made to our country. It is also an opportunity to educate ourselves on Black history, and continue to combat anti-Black racism in Canada.

Here in Durham Region, that celebration took shape at the annual Together We Rise Durham Black History Month event, which was held on February 3 at Milestone Christian Centre, in Ajax.

This year’s theme, ‘legacy ignites the path for youth to lead the future’, set the tone for an evening rooted in community, connection, and inspiration, as attendees gathered to honour the trailblazers who paved the way and shine a spotlight on the young leaders shaping out future.

An evening of connection and conversation

The night began with a networking session. Community members and partners, youth, and elders connected with excitement as the sounds of Impulse Steel Orchestra filled the room with steel pan music. This excitement only grew as the formal program began. 

On hand to welcome everyone was Regional Chair John Henry, who emphasized the importance of diversity in the region and recognized the accomplishments of the Black community. Deputy Police Chief Chris Kirkpatrick also addressed the crowd reaffirming the Durham Regional Police Service’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and meaningful progress in support of Black communities.

Powerful performances

The Concordia Concert Choir from Pickering High School Choir lifted their voices, singing a rousing rendition of the Canadian National Anthem, while two of the choir’s soloists also performed Lift Every Voice and Sing, which is often referred to as the Black Anthem.

African dance then took centre stage as Elite Dance Initiative for Youth (EDIFY) shared two dynamic performances that celebrated heritage and expression.

Following the dancing, the choir returned to sing Take Me Home by Pentatonix and the Light That Will Lead You Home by Stuart Chappell Hill.

Inspiring words from elders and youth

A highlight of the event was the Legacy Café—a welcoming, intergenerational exchange between elders Dr. Jean‑Placide Rubabaza and Dr. Adwoa Onuora, and youth leaders Zechariah Thomas, founder and CEO of Swift Hockey as well as Trent University-Durham student Jada Newland and Khalil Emanuel from University of Guelph-Humber, who shared stories, perspectives, and personal experiences.

These conversations brought the event theme to life, reminding everyone that representation matters, Black excellence is alive and well and legacy is not just something inherited but something that is actively built together.

Until next year…

As the evening ended, one message clearly resonated: our future is brightest when we rise together.

Thank you to all who attended, performed, and contributed to another meaningful celebration of Black History Month in Durham Region. Don’t miss next year’s opportunity to connect, honour, and build a stronger future—one story at a time.

Never miss a story. Subscribe to receive weekly updates at durham.ca/ThisWeek.