Black History Month Act, 2016, S.O. 2016, c. 1 - Bill 159

• Jurisdiction: Ontario
• Bill Number: 159
• Date: 16 February 2016

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This Explanatory Note was written as a reader’s aid to Bill 159 and does not form part of the law. Bill 159 has been enacted as Chapter 1 of the Statutes of Ontario, 2016.

The Bill proclaims the month of February in each year as Black History Month.

chapter 1

An Act to proclaim the month of February as Black History Month

Assented to February 16, 2016

Preamble

The history of Black Canadians and their struggle against slavery, racism, exclusion and inequality is a significant part of Ontario’s history.

It is appropriate and important to recognize and pay tribute to the contributions that Black Canadians have made to the history of this Province. They have contributed greatly to the shaping of Canada – at the forefront of the anti-slavery movement in the 1800s and during the human rights struggles in the 1900s.

By proclaiming the month of February as Black History Month, the Province of Ontario recognizes the valuable contributions that Black Canadians have made to Ontario’s economic, social, political and cultural fabric. Black History Month gives us the opportunity to remember, celebrate and educate future generations about Ontario’s rich history.

Therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts as follows:

Black History Month

1. The month of February in each year is proclaimed as Black History Month.

Commencement

2. This Act comes into force on the day it receives Royal Assent.

Short title

3. The short title of this Act is...