By Kojo

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) has officially launched its 2025 Black History Month campaign, celebrating the contributions of Black Torontonians who have played pivotal roles in creating a sense of belonging, safety, and unity within the city. This year’s theme emphasizes collaboration and visibility, ensuring that Black history and culture remain at the forefront of public consciousness beyond the month of February.

The campaign features striking public artwork on select TTC vehicles and stations, highlighting six honorees whose contributions span social justice, immigrant advocacy, community safety, and public service. Among those recognized are Dr. Akua Benjamin for her work in social justice, Debbie Douglas for her advocacy on behalf of immigrants and refugees, and Colleen Russell-Rawlins for her efforts in education and equity. Angela Robertson and Adonis Higgins are honoured for their dedication to community development, while the late Louis March is remembered for his activism against gun violence.

TTC Chair Jamaal Myers, who presided over the event, expressed pride in the TTC’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion. “As we celebrate Black excellence in Toronto, we recognize that Black History Month is also a time for personal reflection,” Myers said. He recalled his own experience working overnight shifts at the TTC’s Greenwood Yard to pay for university, crediting the transit system with teaching him professionalism and the importance of good union jobs. He also reflected on the legacy of Frederick Langdon Hubbard, the first Black TTC Chair, who held the role from 1929 to 1930 and played a significant role in shaping public transit in Toronto.

“We’ve come a long way in 95 years, but there is still much more to do,” Myers added, emphasizing the TTC’s efforts to build a system that reflects and celebrates the city’s diversity. He acknowledged the growing presence of Black leadership within the TTC’s unions and executive teams, noting the recent appointment of two new Black executive board members.

Marvin Alfred, the first Black president of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 113, also addressed the audience, highlighting the importance of sustainable efforts to break down barriers for Black professionals. “Recognition of Black history should not be for a moment—it should be a commitment,” he stated. Alfred also spoke about his recent attendance at a TTC executive graduation ceremony, where leaders completed advanced inclusive leadership training. “Hearing their testimonies about how this training evolved their thinking was inspiring. We must continue this work, despite efforts elsewhere to roll back progress,” he said, making a subtle reference to political shifts south of the border.

A powerful artistic presence marked the event, with Black artists playing a significant role in the campaign’s visual storytelling. Jamira, one of the lead artists, spoke about the importance of representation in public spaces. “Showcasing Black artistry within our transit system is more than just representation—it’s affirmation. It tells everyone who sees it that Black stories deserve to be honored and remembered,” she said.

The campaign’s slogan, inspired by the Sankofa principle – “projection without limits, remembering without forgetting”- underscored the event’s mission to honor the past while shaping the future. The artwork was created in collaboration with both established and emerging Black artists.

The celebration ended on a high note, with a catered reception by the Nutmeg Restaurant.

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LJI Reporter