The Ontario Black History Society (OBHS) ushered in Black History Month with elegance and purpose as it hosted its 38th Annual Kick-Off Brunch on February 1 at the Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex on the grounds of the Canadian National Exhibition. Guided by the theme “History Starts at Home,” the highly anticipated event drew a large and enthusiastic audience, reaffirming its status as one of the province’s most significant gatherings dedicated to honouring Black achievement, leadership, and cultural legacy.

CTV Toronto weekend anchor Andrea Case served as host, steering the day’s proceedings with warmth and professionalism.

The keynote address was delivered by Hamilton Centre Ex-Member of Parliament Matthew Green, who also received the Dr. Daniel G. Hill Award for Community Service. A fourth-generation Canadian, Green spoke passionately about the legacy builders who paved the way for his own journey in public life. He paid tribute to influential figures such as Zanana Akande, Jean Augustine, and Michael Williams, reminding attendees that progress is rarely achieved in isolation but rather through collective perseverance and courage.

Several distinguished community leaders were recognized for their impact. Roodney Clarke accepted the Harriet Tubman Award, honouring his steadfast commitment to

purpose and community advancement through his work with UA Local 46, representing plumbers, steamfitters, and welders. In his remarks, Clarke acknowledged mentors who guided his path and stressed the importance of creating opportunities for those who follow.

The Lincoln Alexander Award for Leadership and Promise was presented to Toronto Metropolitan University students from the “Black to the Future” initiative, led by Dr. Anne-Marie Lee-Loy. Their academic leadership and forward-looking vision symbolized the strength of the next generation.

Gwyneth Chapman received the Dr. Beverley Salmon Award for trailblazing in the fight for justice and civil rights. She underscored the vital role OBHS continues to play in grounding the community while recognizing its many accomplishments. Charles “Phil” Broome, recipient of the Jean Augustine Award for Community Impact, reflected on lessons learned in Barbados, where his parents’ dedication to church fundraising shaped his lifelong commitment to service. Today, his philanthropic efforts extend both within Canada and toward improving healthcare resources in Barbados.

Angela Carter was honoured with the Reverend Addie Aylestock Award for paving the way for others. A longtime advocate and former leader of Roots Community Services, Carter shared reflections on a life devoted to empowering individuals from Black, African, and Caribbean communities to pursue meaningful change.

A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the OBHS Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Rosemary Sadlier, a transformative figure in Canadian Black history. During more than two decades of leadership as OBHS president, Sadlier played a pivotal role in strengthening national recognition of Black History Month and championing the establishment of Emancipation Day in Canada.

Music added energy and celebration to the occasion. Saxophonist Akintunde Adegoke welcomed guests with soulful melodies, while the Blackburn Brothers, fourth-generation Canadians descended from freedom seekers who settled in Southern Ontario, brought the room to life with a dynamic performance rooted in messages of history, unity, and resilience. Vocalist Charmie Deller opened the program with stirring renditions of both the Canadian and Black anthems.

In closing, OBHS President Cali Braithwate-Walton expressed gratitude to members whose loyalty has sustained the organization through decades of progress and challenge. She also acknowledged sponsors, including TD Bank, whose continued support helps preserve and promote Ontario’s Black history.

As another Black History Month begins, the brunch serves not only as a celebration of past achievements but also as a call to action, reminding attendees that history is continuously shaped within homes, communities, and the shared commitment to a stronger future.

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