Black History Month

The Promise We Carry 

“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.

Events 

• Pan-African Flag Raising Ceremony at the Municipal Offices - Monday, February 2, 2026 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• Black History Month Reception, Art Exhibition and Ujamaa Marketplace - Sunday, February 8, 2026 l 2 p.m. - 6:00 PM (program begins at 3 p.m.) at Old Town Hall, 460 Botsford Street
• Falls Illumination - Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at dusk 
• Paint and Sip: Art as reflection with Chika Oh - Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Newmarket Public Library (438 Park Avenue)
• Art Gallery and Exhibition: The Promise we Carry from February 3 - 28 | Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Museum Exhibition: Heritage and Pride from February 3 - 28 | Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10. a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. 

Presenting sponsor 

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Community Partners

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