OSSTF/FEESO Statement
Black History Month
February 1, 2022—February is Black History Month in Canada and represents an important opportunity for OSSTF/FESSO leadership and individual Members to reflect on how we can continue to challenge and dismantle anti-Black racism in our schools, workplaces, and communities.
The national theme for Black History Month 2022 is “February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day,” a reminder of the need to honour Black History year-round, with this month serving as an important way to start a larger conversation and celebration of the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians.
Black History Month is also an important time to acknowledge the different experiences of Black Canadians and learn more about those unique journeys and the impacts that Black Canadians have had on our society, ourselves, and our histories.
From reflection and acknowledgment, we must also move towards action. This year, OSSTF/FEESO will be engaged in several actions. We will be sharing important resources and information from our Federation and community organizations across our channels and social platforms throughout the month. We will also support the national labour movement’s Black History Month actions.
The Canadian Labour of Congress’ (CLC) theme is “Supporting Black workers and communities beyond Black history month, toward building an anti-racist labour movement and a more just and equitable society.” The accompanying slogan will be: “Beyond Black History Month.” The CLC will also be sharing key resources all month long and hosting an online text rally on February 23, 2022 at 1:00 pm ET where labour movement members will be texting Canadians across the country and urging them to combat systemic anti-Black racism and send a letter to their MPs. There will be simultaneous interpretation available. OSSTF/FEESO Members can register for the eventhere.