Black Futures Month begins today at George Brown Polytechnic (GBP), marking a month of learning, gathering, and action that connects Black histories with present-day community and future-focused institutional commitments. This annual observance invites the George Brown community to reflect, celebrate, and help shape a more inclusive and equitable future.
Coordinated by Black Futures Initiatives (BFI) within the Office of Anti-Racism, Equity, and Human Rights Services and in collaboration with departments across the institution this year's theme, Roots and Resistance, highlights the essential relationship between historical accountability and the ongoing work of building Black futures at George Brown
A milestone year for Black History Month in Canada
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Black History Month in Canada a national milestone made possible by the leadership of Jean Augustine, the first Black woman elected to the House of Commons, who introduced the original motion in 1995.
The federal theme for 2026, "30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations From Nation Builders to Tomorrow's Visionaries," underscores the legacy of Black Canadians whose innovation, creativity, and resilience have shaped the country's past and continue to influence its future. GBP's theme mirrors this national spirit while grounding it in the institution's specific commitments and community.
An institution wide celebration of community and creativity
The kickoff to Black Futures Month sets the tone for a month dedicated to recognizing the achievements and ongoing contributions of Black communities including students, alumni, employees, and partners who enrich the George Brown experience.
"This year's Black Futures Month reflects a simple truth: Black histories and Black futures are inseparable," says Mary Ola, Senior Manager of Black Futures. "It asks us to consider how history lives in our buildings, our policies, and our daily practices. As we name the atrium in honour of William Peyton Hubbard, we make visible the legacy of Black nation builders while committing ourselves to supporting the next generation of Black visionaries. This month affirms our shared responsibility to create institutional conditions where Black leadership, creativity, and belonging can continue to grow."
Programming that inspires reflection and action
Throughout February, Black Futures Month programming will span student and employee learning spaces, research and creative practice, wellness activities, and community-building events. The schedule features the Hubbard Naming ceremony, virtual screenings, teaching workshops, self-care sessions, and the return of the Black Futures Expo and Mentoring Fair, which showcases businesses and organizations serving Black communities.
- Full event listings and registration details can be found at georgebrown.ca/blackfutures.
Looking ahead together
Black Futures Month at George Brown Polytechnic is a time to honour the past, acknowledge the present, and imagine new paths forward. As the polytechnic celebrates three decades of Black History Month in Canada, the institution also reaffirms its role in co-creating a future where Black communities on campus and beyond continue to thrive.
Everyone is invited to participate in this month-long celebration and to stay engaged with BFI throughout the year as part of a shared commitment to belonging, equity, and Black futures at George Brown.
