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The commemoration of Black History Month dates back to 1926 in the United States, when African American historian Carter G. Woodson proposed establishing a period to honor the achievements of African Americans.
In December 1995, the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month in Canada following a motion initiated by the Honorable Jean Augustine, the first Black Canadian elected to Parliament.
In November 2006, the National Assembly of Quebec passed a bill designating February as Black History Month to highlight the historical contribution of Black communities to Quebec society. Few people know that people of African descent have helped shape Canada's heritage and identity since the arrival of Mathieu Da Costa, a navigator and interpreter, whose presence in Canada dates back to the early 1600s. Every year in February, during Black History Month, the Centre R.I.R.E. 2000 invites the public to take part in celebrations and activities that highlight the heritage of Black Canadians and Quebecers, both past and present.