Aurora-Newmarket Black History Month

The Promise We Carry: Collective Strength, Shared Future

“The Promise We Carry” calls us to walk the path our ancestors paved: honouring the sacrifices of those before us while protecting the futures of those yet to come. It reminds us that the work of justice is continuous and shared.

This Black History Month, we will look back at the gains made by freedom fighters, abolitionists and civil rights leaders and examine how their vision lives within us today. We will consider the promises we now carry—commitments to justice, equity, education, health and cultural pride—and how we must uphold them, especially in times of uncertainty.  

“The Promise We Carry” is both a reflection and a charge. It speaks to Ujima (collective work and responsibility) and Kujichagulia (self-determination), and to the work we continue to do to resist erasure and boldly affirm the achievements of the Black diaspora everywhere. As we collaborate across communities, we acknowledge that the promise of liberation belongs to all of us. We are charged with carrying this promise forward, ensuring that future generations inherit justice, hope and the freedom to dream, build and thrive.

2026 Programming & Event Schedule

  • Time: 6 p.m.

  • Location: Aurora Town Hall, Council Chambers

Gather with us as we raise the Pan-African flag in Aurora, standing as one community in recognition of Black heritage and hope. This ceremony honours the enduring contributions of people of African descent and reaffirms our shared responsibility to carry forward the promise of equity and justice.

  • Time: 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. (Reception at 5 p.m.; Program begins at 6 p.m.)
  • Location: Royal Venetian Mansion, 400 Industrial Pkwy S, Aurora

The Black History Month Gala is an evening of celebration and reflection that embodies unity, pride and purpose. Guests will enjoy a thoughtfully curated program featuring live performances, distinguished speakers and moments of recognition that honour the strength of the African diaspora. Guided by this year’s theme, “The Promise We Carry: Collective Strength, Shared Future,” the evening invites us to celebrate how far we have come while reaffirming our shared commitment to justice, community and legacy. We honour our shared heritage and look ahead to a future filled with hope, possibility and promise.

Groups and Organizations

The Aurora Black Community Association (ABC) creates events and programs to unite the community, with the motto, “One Vision Diverse Voices.”

The events and programs offer opportunities for learning through the participation of inclusive experiences. ABC aims to create an empowered environment that bridges different cultures in Aurora, through music, sports & recreation, education, resources, and food.

 

Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) is committed to the collective work of engaging the African Canadian communities and its allies through program delivery, education, and partnerships, to cultivate an empowered and united Black community in Newmarket.

Learn more: https://www.naccacommunity.ca

What is Black History Month?

Celebrating Black history and achievement in Canada dates to the 1920s. In 1995, Black History Month was officially recognized in Canada after a motion was introduced by the Honourable Jean Augustine, the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament.

This February, learn more about Black history in Canada

If you are interested in having your event included in the Aurora event listing please email us

Announcement

Contact Us

Town of Aurora
100 John West Way
Aurora ON L4G 6J1
Phone: 905-727-1375 or 905-727-3123
Fax: 905-726-4769

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