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# Montreal Community Contact: Montreal Community Contact is a community newspaper and digital publication serving Montreal's English-speaking Black and Caribbean communities since 2004. Its coverage spans community news, Caribbean and African news, entertainment, events, sports, church and gospel, obituaries, commentary and special features, published online and in a regular digital edition. Alongside its journalism, the paper connects readers to youth mentorship, employment support, family services, housing and legal aid guidance, and skills-building workshops, and promotes more than 100 community events each year. Local businesses and organizations can advertise to reach these communities, residents can submit stories, and volunteers are welcome year-round.

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [Playmas Launches Lit Roots to Keep Stories Alive](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/playmas-launches-lit-roots-to-keep-stories-alive/): Rosie Awori - Montreal Community Contact - Local Journalism Initiative
- [GemStar Celebrates Fourth Cohort, Honouring Excellence and Inspiring the Future](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/gemstar-celebrates-fourth-cohort-honouring-excellence-and-inspiring-the-future/): Rosie Awori - Montreal Community Contact - Local Journalism Initiative 
- [She Takes Her Seat Builds a Community Where Women’s Voices Matter](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/she-takes-her-seat-builds-a-community-where-womens-voices-matter/): Rosie Awori - Montreal Community Contact - Local Journalism Initiative
- [The Word Quebec Won’t Say](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/the-word-quebec-wont-say/): Rosie Awori – Montreal Community Contact – Local Journalism Initiative
- [After nearly a decade, Turbulence returns to  Montreal with a new generation in tow](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/after-nearly-a-decade-turbulence-returns-to-montreal-with-a-new-generation-in-tow-2/): After nearly ten years away from the city, Jamaican reggae star Turbulence is set to return to Montreal on Saturday, July 25, headlining the Ready for Love Festival in Châteauguay. The concert marks not only the return of one of the top reggae’s conscious voices, but also the launch of a new musical chapter alongside Montreal recording artist Miss Diva.
- [Check out Pressed and Pretty This Summer](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/check-out-pressed-and-pretty-this-summer/): This summer is shaping up to be one of our busiest yet, and we’re incredibly grateful for the continued support from our community. Business has been doing exceptionally well, and with demand continuing to grow, we’ve made the decision to focus our energy on just two major events this season: Ribfest in the West Island and Island Fête, hosted by Overture With The Arts.
- [From the DJ Booth to the Vice Principal’s Office](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/from-the-dj-booth-to-the-vice-principals-office/): Congratulations are in order for a familiar face in Montreal's Caribbean community, Sheldon Sandy, who has been appointed Interim Vice Principal at St. Jude School, effective July 1. Many know Sheldon for his contributions as DJ Powda, where he has spent years bringing people together through music at community events. Beyond the turntables, however, he has dedicated more than 20 years to education, including the last 13 years teaching in one of the Riverside School Board's regional programs. His appointment is a proud reminder that members of our Caribbean community continue to make meaningful contributions both within and beyond the cultural scene. As he steps into this leadership role, Sheldon brings with him a wealth of experience, passion, and a commitment to supporting students and staff. We extend our sincere congratulations to Sheldon Sandy and wish him every success as he begins this exciting new chapter at St. Jude School.
- [Representing Soca on CJAD and  Recognizing Montreal Carimas Progress](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/representing-soca-on-cjad-and-recognizing-montreal-carimas-progress/): Be free to send your feedback on any of my articles to Productionsounds@gmail.com or Instagram @Productionjr
- [Obituary URIAH JACKSON](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/obituary-uriah-jackson/): August 18th, 1955 to July 1st, 2017
- [Miss Montreal Carnival Queen Show](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/miss-montreal-carnival-queen-show/): I would like to say thank you to all of the contestants who participated in this event.  The Jamaican Association of Montreal, and Barbados House Montreal for all of their support.
- [An Open Invitation: Montreal Deliverance Church of God Invites the Community In](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/an-open-invitation-montreal-deliverance-church-invites-the-community-in/): Montreal Deliverance Church of God 7th Day will open its doors for its Annual Visitor’s Day on Saturday, August 1, 2026, inviting neighbours, friends, families, and first-time guests into an afternoon of worship, fellowship, and community.
- [Pierrefonds students to visit historic Dresden to deepen understanding of Black Canadian history](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/pierrefonds-students-to-visit-historic-dresden-to-deepen-understanding-of-black-canadian-history/): Rosie Awori - Local Journalism Initiative. 
- [After nearly a decade, Turbulence returns to Montreal with a new generation in tow](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/after-nearly-a-decade-turbulence-returns-to-montreal-with-a-new-generation-in-tow/): Rosie Awori – Local Journalism Initiative
- [Ground Broken for Montreal Afro-Canadian Cultural Centre](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/ground-broken-for-montreal-afro-canadian-cultural-centre/): By Rosie Awori – Local Journalism Initiative
- [NDG Accounting Firm Rebuilding After Suspected Arson Disrupts Tax Season](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/ndg-accounting-firm-rebuilding-after-suspected-arson-disrupts-tax-season/): Rosie Awori - Local Journalism Initiative
- [TOTC and Rise Montréal Festivals Unite](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/totc-and-rise-montreal-festivals-unite/): Rosie Awori - Local Journalism Initiative
- [GET READY FOR CARIMAS 2026](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/get-ready-for-carimas-2026/): Rosie Awori - Local Journalism Initiative
- [Consultation Event](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/consultation-event/)
- [Remembering Walter “Bunn” Hamilton](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/remembering-walter-bunn-hamilton/): Death Announcement It is with deep sorrow that I announce the sudden passing of my dad Walter “Bunn” Hamilton on March 13, 2026, at the age of 90. Our family is completely devastated by this unexpected loss. My dad will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his many family members and friends. He will be laid to rest at his family home in Lucky Hill, Jamaica, on April 25, 2026.
- [](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/18102-2/)
- [Remembering Mr. Cecil Blackette](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/remembering-mr-cecil-blackette/): Mr. Cecil Blackette
- [Healing Through the Hands: Audreia Fagan Brings Care and Relief to Montrealers](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/healing-through-the-hands-audreia-fagan-brings-care-and-relief-to-montrealers/): Audreia Fagan still laughs when she remembers the first time someone offered her a full-body massage.
- [I WONDER, AS I WANDER](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/i-wonder-as-i-wander/): On the first day of Black History Month 2026, I had the privilege of addressing the congregation at the Unitarian Church of Montreal—Canada's first Unitarian community, founded in 1842. My theme was WONDER. Wonder at the deep roots of Black history in Quebec, wonder at the resilience of our community, and wonder at what we might build together through genuine allyship.
- [Tabanca: When the Spirit Tells the Body Where It Belongs](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/tabanca-when-the-spirit-tells-the-body-where-it-belongs/): Salutations Everyone!
- [Step By Step](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/step-by-step-2/): Negativity is a dream killer. You have to decide what you want to do and take the necessary small intentional steps to get you there.
- [Funny By Nature Celebrates 9 Years of  Comedy with Big Norm and Friends in Montreal](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/funny-by-nature-celebrates-9-years-of-comedy-with-big-norm-and-friends-in-montreal/): Be free to send your feedback on any of my articles to Productionsounds@gmail.com or Instagram @Productionjr
- [Beyond calendar: Honouring Women  Through a Faith Lens](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/beyond-calendar-honouring-women-through-a-faith-lens/): Each year the calendar invites us to pause and reflect on moments that shape our shared humanity. Some observances pass quietly, while others encourage deeper consideration about the progress we have made and the work that still lies ahead. One such moment is International Women’s Day, observed globally on March 8. Beyond the headlines and social media posts, the day offers an opportunity to recognize the profound ways women have shaped families, communities, and history itself. Some companies and organizations will host events until the end of the week or maybe even the end of the month. But what does it all mean? For some, conversations about recognizing women quickly become tied to political debates or ideological movements. Yet beyond those discussions lies something universally meaningful: acknowledging the progress that has allowed women around the world to live fuller, freer lives. There was a time in many societies when girls were denied education, when child marriage was widely accepted, when women had little legal voice in civic life, and when even reading the Bible was discouraged in certain contexts. Today, many women pursue education, vote, lead, innovate, and contribute significantly to their communities. Let's celebrate that! These freedoms should not be taken for granted. Within that story of progress are remarkable contributions from Black women whose ingenuity improved everyday life for millions around the world. Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner developed an early sanitary belt that paved the way for modern sanitary pads, improving hygiene and comfort for women. Sarah Boone patented an improved ironing board that made pressing garments far more efficient. Gladys West, a mathematician whose work was once largely unknown to the public, contributed critical calculations that led to the development of GPS technology used around the world today. We can also look to trailblazers like Madam C. J. Walker, widely recognized as the first self-made female millionaire in the United States. Through her hair-care products designed specifically for Black women, she built a thriving business while creating economic opportunities for thousands of women. She also used her success to fund scholarships and support initiatives that strengthened Black communities. These women were innovators and visionaries whose work continues to benefit people across generations. While history highlights women whose creativity improved daily life, the Bible reveals something even deeper: from the very beginning, women were part of God’s intentional design to influence the course of humanity. The very first woman, Eve, holds a unique place in creation. Scripture tells us she was created as a “helper suitable” for Adam, a phrase that carries the meaning of a strong partner or ally. Unlike Adam, who was formed from the dust of the ground, Eve was fashioned from living flesh and carefully formed by God’s hand. She was special and set apart from the beginning and to all the women reading this, so are you. Throughout Scripture we see women whose faith had lasting impact far beyond their own lifetime. Consider Hannah, whose heartfelt prayer and vow led her to dedicate her son to the Lord. That son grew up to become the prophet Samuel, who helped guide the spiritual direction of Israel and anointed its first kings. A life we are privileged to read and learn from because of his mother's selfless sacrifice. Another woman remembered throughout generations is the unnamed woman who anointed Jesus with costly perfume. Jesus declared that wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, her act of devotion would be remembered. This woman's worship caused her to be remembered forever. Have you considered the kind of honour God has reserved for your heartfelt worship of Him? Many say that women have no place in church but God has proven otherwise and scripture offers a beautiful image of how deeply God values this role: the global community of believers is described as the Bride of Christ. It is a picture of covenant, love, and devotion, reminding us that God’s design for men and women has always been partnership. A great example is Priscilla, who, alongside her husband Aquila, helped teach and strengthen the early church, even instructing others more deeply in the faith. Their examples remind us that the growth of the early church was sustained not only through preaching and miracles, but also through faithful acts of service, generosity, and hospitality. For many within the Black community, the strength of women has never been theoretical, it has been a lived reality. From mothers and grandmothers who prayed for families through hardship, to women who nurture faith within churches and communities, their influence quietly shapes future generations. Some contributions deserve far more than a single day on the calendar. Let's remember to honour the women in our lives and history more than just when the calendar tells us to. They deserve to be remembered for generations.Beyond calendar: Honouring Women Through a Faith Lens
- [My “TRUE BITS” On How To Fix The Black Community](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/my-true-bits-on-how-to-fix-the-black-community/): Let's put an end to the blaming; let's unite and start aiming
- [Age Strong for Longevity](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/age-strong-for-longevity/): I’ve heard women say, “I don’t want to lift weights because it is going to make me look too masculine.” Let me begin by debunking this myth. Women who lift weights will not develop huge, bulky muscles. Why? Because most women lack the high testosterones required for building large muscles. Now you’re probably wondering, what about female body builders? The response, these women are professional athletes who work out up to five days a week, consistently challenging their muscles by lifting heavier weights. Additionally, their muscles are not attained solely by weightlifting, but also through a high protein diet in a caloric surplus, and at times, performance enhancing substances.
- [Discussing mental health matters with Dr L Mabhunu](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/discussing-mental-health-matters-with-dr-l-mabhunu/): By Nompumelelo Moyo
- [Young, Gifted and Rising in our Community](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/young-gifted-and-rising-in-our-community/): Marissa Ramnanan
- [Asia Mason’s THE TIES THAT BIND](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/asia-masons-the-ties-that-bind/): Marissa Ramnanan    
- [Union United Church Awards Nelson Mandela Community Scholarship](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/union-united-church-awards-nelson-mandela-community-scholarship/): By C0ntact Staff
- [Efforts to Acquire Name Places for Dan Philip, Noel Alexander & Oscar Peterson](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/efforts-to-acquire-name-places-for-dan-philip-noel-alexander-oscar-peterson/): On November 17th, 2025, representatives of more than a dozen community and diaspora organizations converged on the headquarters of the Ligue des Noir du Quebec on Decarie Boulevard in Montreal. The press conference was organized by Mr. Marvin Rotrand, Executive Director of United Against Hate Canada. The mission? To lobby the Mayoress of The City of Montreal, Soraya Martinez Ferrada, to assist with the acquisition of place names in Montreal for black citizens of Quebec who'd made significant contributions to the city in various disciplines. On this occasion, three names took front and center of the initiative: Dan Philip, Noel Alexander, and Oscar Peterson. I, David Foster, President and Founder of The St Lucia Canada Foundation, was invited to speak at the press conference, along with Max Stanley Bazin, President of Ligue des Noir du Quebec, and Mark Henry, former President of the Jamaica Association of Montreal. In addition, a letter with over 20 signatures from various community and diaspora groups, addressed to the newly elected Mayoress, was presented at that press conference. For me, this assignment was not just special; it was personal. Why? Because just like Dan Philip, I too was born in St Lucia. Dan Philip was also a childhood friend of my deceased brother, Kenneth Foster, a former Queen's Council attorney and politician. Though separated by distance, the two remained friends throughout their lives. During my final conversation with Dan Philip, he told me that my brother would be extremely proud if I joined him, Dan Philip, to help continue the work that he had started. I accepted the challenge and promised to do just that. However, working with Dan never materialized, as working two jobs and trying to get a business off the ground afforded me very little time for anything else. Fast forward 2 years plus and not only do I establish the St Lucia Canada Foundation, but I also become acquainted with Mr Marvin Rotrand, a man whom I respect highly and now regard as a mentor. Marvin briefed me on the assignment, and I took to it as a duck does to water or a bird to the skies. During the press conference, Marvin Rotrand spoke first, followed by Max Stanley Bazin and Mark Henry. My turn finally came. I needed no multiple-page rehearsed speech, nor any AI-assisted script. With Marvin Rotrand's guidance, I fully understood the assignment. There was no need to repeat who these three colossal personalities were. Everyone knew that Dan Philip had desegregated the Taxi Industry in Quebec, Oscar Peterson had recorded over 200 musical pieces and had won 8 Grammys across several categories, and everyone knew that Noel Alexander had fought against illegal police stop and search practices. My words were clear, precise, and targeted. I addressed the Mayoress directly and respectfully asked for her support on this initiative, and I told the World that the names of these 3 men must NEVER be forgotten. To forget their names is to forget the work that they dedicated their lives to. To forget their names is to forget the dark, racist history of our city and the numerous people who were victims of that history. To forget their names is to forget that many institutions and individuals remain racist and bigoted in their mentalities and operations. Therefore, we must NEVER forget these names. During a brief interview with one of the media houses present, Joan Lee, President of WIBCA, reminded the World that Quebec had come a long way with regards to racism, but we still had a long way to go. That press conference created an immediate ripple and almost every major media house from Montreal, Toronto and as far as Vancouver echoed my words that 'These names must NEVER be forgotten. Those words became the kicker for many news reels and press write-ups. The mission to recreate the awareness of this cause had been accomplished. Marvin Rotrand then briefed us on the next stage of the campaign, which was for me to propose to the Mayoress the creation of a 'working table' which would oversee the allocation of place names for prominent black Montrealers, posthumously. She accepted without hesitation and also promised that Josue Corvil would contact Max Stanley Bazin to advance things further. We were definitely making headway and building momentum. Mr. Bazin and Mr. Corvil have since spoken and exchanged correspondence on the issue. We now await a date for a proposed meeting with the Mayoress and members of the Executive Committee. This cause has taught me something rather important. Now more than ever, the call for unity within our community is resoundingly loud. The call is for unity and not dominance by any one group or organization. We live in times where the reign of certain political figures with a certain mentality regarding race and social strata has empowered the masses to act and speak in the most despicable of ways. We've all seen the recent video of Police approaching a group of our sons, with guns drawn and demanding that they lay on the ground. After searching and traumatizing those kids a bit more, the Police realized that they were never a threat. Just a bunch of black kids having a good time at an Airbnb. I believe that we must unite not with just others from our home islands nor countries, but with all of each other, because first and foremost we're Afro-Caribbean, then St Lucian, then Barbadian, and Trini, etc., etc. I see the need for a group that represents just that, and not just specific islands. I see the need for a diverse group that will not play on dominance, nor the cultural prowess of any individual island. I see the need for a group that speaks loudly and unapologetically when addressing the issues and needs of our people. Not a group whose sole assignment is one of social gatherings and photo opportunities only. We need to get serious and focus. I commend Mr. Rotrand for spearheading this initiative, and I'm grateful and honored to be a part of it. I applaud the many groups that participated and signed that letter to the Mayoress. It was an honor to walk shoulder to shoulder on this journey with the likes of Barbados House Montreal, WIBCA, Black Girl Magic Canada, Cornucopia, The Tamil organization, our Filipino brothers and sisters, and many others who came out in support and solidarity of this cause. I salute them. Next mission, to ensure that our Police are equipped with functioning body cams. Again Mr Rotrand is leading the charge and several community groups have allied to get the work done. In the very near future, my newly launched radio station, Real Island Vibes Radio, will be recording a podcast dedicated to Dan Philip, Noel Alexander, Oscar Peterson, Egbert Gaye, and the countless others who have put in work and paved the way for us. These men were giants, and today we should stand on the shoulders of these giants and let the World know that their names must NEVER be forgotten. David T Foster President & Founder of St Lucia Canada Foundation President & Founder of Real Island Vibes radio & Podcast
- [Kristara: queen of the squared Circle](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/kristara-queen-of-the-squared-circle/): Meet Kristara known in the wrestling world as “The Sweetest Pea” a Montreal-born professional wrestler who’s steadily etching her name in to the annals of Canadian wrestling. Four years in, Kristara is already doing what few women before her have managed: holding a top men’s championship. Kristara grew up on Montreal’s South Shore, following what many would call the “right path.” “You go to school, you work, you do everything your parents want you to do,” she said to the CONTACT. “I did all that university, part-time jobs, long-term relationship but I felt unfulfilled. I was bored.” Wrestling had always been in the background something she loved as both sport and performance, but it wasn’t until the pandemic that she finally made the leap. “We were all stuck at home thinking about our lives,” she said. “I had just graduated university and thought, ‘I don’t really have an excuse anymore.’” As soon as training reopened, she enrolled at the International Wrestling Syndicate (IWS) school and never looked back. “I said, ‘Let me just try it,’” she recalled. “And once I tried it, I just never stopped going.” IWS has been a fixture in Montreal wrestling for more than 27 years, with alumni who’ve gone on to perform on global stages. Stepping into that ring comes with expectations and Kristara exceeded them. She became the first woman to hold IWS’s major championship, a title historically held by men. “That was a pretty cool accomplishment,” she said with a laugh. “It still feels surreal.” “I’m always the babyface,” Kristara said though she originally thought she’d play the villain. “As a fan, I always liked the bad guys more,” she said. “They had more layers.” But wrestling has a way of revealing who you really are. Thus, The Sweetest Pea was born a character that contrasts warmth with raw physicality. “I wrestle men a lot,” she said. “So naturally people want to root for me. If it’s me versus a big dude, most of the time the crowd’s on my side.” Don’t let the nickname fool you. Kristara’s offense is crisp, technical, and punishing. Her signature arsenal includes, L Screenshot ow Enzuigiri, German Suplex and the Spinning Side Slam Backbreaker. Kristara’s work hasn’t gone unnoticed beyond Montreal. She has shared the ring with internationally recognized talent like Ruby Soho and is preparing for a major IWS matchup against Shayna Baszler, a former NXT champion. Perhaps most validating was her recent ranking by Pro Wrestling Illustrated, where she placed 50th out of 250 women wrestlers worldwide. “If you’re a wrestler, that list means a lot,” she explained. “It’s great exposure. I was also the highest-ranked Canadian not signed to a major company that made me really proud.” Off camera and outside the ring, Kristara describes herself as quiet and reserved, a contrast that often surprises people. “People think you’re rough and tough all the time,” she said. “But that’s a persona. That’s my character. It’s a part of me, not all of me.” Four years into her career, Kristara says wrestling has taught her just how ambitious she really is. One of her proudest achievements wasn’t a title it was independence. “I’ve travelled before, but never by myself. Wrestling pushed me to do that.” “I went to Winnipeg, New Brunswick, Manitoba, Wales all because of wrestling. I don’t think I would’ve done that before.” Now approaching 30, Kristara is focused on pushing exposure, and sustainability. “I want to wrestle as much as I can, while I can,” she added, “And honestly, my biggest dream is to be able to live off wrestling to have my passion support you.” Keep up with all things Kristara through her Instagram @_kristara.
- [Finding Healing in Nature, Building  ºCommunity Through Routes to Rootz](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/finding-healing-in-nature-building-ocommunity-through-routes-to-rootz/): Routes to Rootz was born during the isolation of the pandemic, when Jean’s mental health was struggling. Nature became her family’s lifeline. “We started walking, then going to regional and national parks every weekend,” she recalls. “That was our lifeline, to be honest.” As her, her partner and her children found healing outdoors, she felt compelled to share that gift with others.
- [Heading home after Hurricane Melissa](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/heading-home-after-hurricane-melissa/): To watch Maya Johnson’s special “Rebuilding Jamaica” series online, visit: https://www.ctvnews.ca/montreal/rebuilding-jamaica/
- [A well deserved break for Dr. Alwin Spence](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/a-well-deserved-break-for-dr-alwin-spence/): After decades of sharing his thoughts, opinions and lessons learned with the community, Dr. Alwin Spence is taking a break from writing a regular column for the Community Contact.
- [“Freedom Is a Constant Struggle” Fred Anderson Writes the Story He Couldn’t Leave Untold](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/freedom-is-a-constant-struggle-fred-anderson-writes-the-story-he-couldnt-leave-untold/): Eyes Have Seen: From Mississippi to Montreal, is published by Baraka books and is available on their website: https://www.barakabooks.com/catalogue/eyes-have-seen/ as well as through major online retailers.
- [Take Time for Yourself, Before Your Body Forces You To](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/take-time-for-yourself-before-your-body-forces-you-to/): Salutations Everyone!
- [30-day Challenge](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/30-day-challenge-2/): It's time to challenge yourself in 2026 and start planning your goals. What is a 30-day challenge? It's a proven way to build new habits. If long-term goals feel overwhelming, start with a
- [Carnival 2026](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/carnival-2026/): Island Scoop!! Your One-Stop Source for Soca News | Carnival 2026
- [Laura Ramjit needs our support](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/laura-ramjit-needs-our-support/): For more than 15 years, Laura Ramjit, of Trinbagonian heritage, has been a familiar and vibrant presence in the Montreal community, sharing her passion for dance and culture with audiences across the city and beyond.
- [Black History is Canadian History](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/black-history-is-canadian-history/): This year marks 30 years since Black History Month was officially recognized and commemorated in Canada. That milestone was not given to us, nor was it handed over freely. It was fought for, advocated for, and won through courage, persistence, and conviction. As members of the Black community, and as people of faith, we understand that remembrance is sacred. Scripture calls us to remember those who came before us, to honour their faithfulness, and to pass their stories on to the next generation. As Psalm 78:4 reminds us, “We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord.” History records Mathieu Da Costa as the first known Black person in what is now Canada, present as early as the 1600s. A skilled interpreter and navigator, he served as a bridge between European settlers and Indigenous peoples. His presence alone reminds us that Black people were part of the Canadian story from its earliest chapters. We endured unfamiliar winters, formed relationships, adapted, laboured, survived, and contributed. Black history in Canada is not borrowed—it is embedded in the nation’s foundation. The national recognition of Black History Month exists today largely because of the unwavering work of the Honourable Jean Augustine. In 1996, as the first Black woman elected to Canada’s Parliament, she did not wait for permission or consensus, she built it. When presenting her motion to the House of Commons, Jean Augustine spoke briefly, for roughly 35 seconds. In that short moment, she spoke of the diversity of the Black community in Canada and its essential role in the country’s history, settlement, growth, and development. The House granted unanimous consent in less than a second. Yet that swift victory was not spontaneous. It was the result of uncountable hours of private advocacy, one-on-one conversations, and deliberate engagement with Members of Parliament long before that day. The moment was brief; the labour behind it was not. Thirty years later, the significance of her work remains undeniable. Even more powerful is this truth: the victorious soldier who stood, spoke, and won still lives among us today—continuing to teach others, including future leaders and thinkers, how to stand, speak, and advocate with conviction. Black history in Canada is distinct. It includes Loyalists, freedom seekers, educators, investors, faith leaders, activists, and public servants. It includes churches that became sanctuaries, families that preserved dignity when opportunity was denied, and voices that spoke truth when silence would have been easier. Yet too often, our children do not learn this history in schools. So we must teach it ourselves, with intention, clarity, and honour. Hebrews 11 celebrates men and women who acted in faith, often without seeing the full results of their obedience. They trusted God, stood firm, and left legacies that endured. As verse 39 reminds us, “These were all commended for their faith.” Our Black Canadian trailblazers deserve a similar remembrance. By courage and determination, they shaped a future they might never fully see but one we now live in. As we mark 30 years of Black History Month in Canada, let us remember rightly. Let us teach our children faithfully. And let us honour those whose conviction made it possible for us to stand where we are today. Because Black history is not separate from Canadian history… it is Canadian history.
- [Black History—-Unravelling the Mystery to Tell our Story](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/black-history-unravelling-the-mystery-to-tell-our-story/): Truth will always be truth regardless of lack of understanding, disbelief or ignorance. Hard truths add credibility rather than diluting the message.
- [YWCA Canada: Canada’s Largest Women’s Movement launches new strategic plan](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/ywca-canada-canadas-largest-womens-movement-launches-new-strategic-plan/): The feminist organization YWCA Canada launched their new strategic plan during their Annual Members Meeting in Québec City from May 29 to 31, 2025. It’s centred on excellence and equity and will run for the next four years.
- [Creating Space for Reflection: Inside Eve Tagny’s Artistic Practice](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/creating-space-for-reflection-inside-eve-tagnys-artistic-practice/): By Desirée Zagbai
- [Harlem of the North: Exploring the Harlem Renaissance and Jazz](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/harlem-of-the-north-exploring-the-harlem-renaissance-and-jazz/): The play ‘Harlem of the North’ is an original Black theatre production. It tells the story of a Black family who moves from the U.S. to Montreal in the 1920s, exploring themes of love and loss, with the background of the Harlem Renaissance and jazz.
- [How Latoya Belfon Built LabWorks into a Home for Writers](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/how-latoya-belfon-built-labworks-into-a-home-for-writers/): When Latoya Belfon sat down to write her first book in 2020, her only goal was to learn how to publish it. She had no plans to start a company or guide others through the process. But as she launched her debut and shared it with her community, the encouragement she received was accompanied by questions—how did you do it? Where did you start? That steady stream of curiosity motivated her to share what she had learned and, before long, to create something enduring.
- [Black Theatre Workshop Brings Our Place to the Stage](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/black-theatre-workshop-brings-our-place-to-the-stage/): Our Place is presented by Black Theatre Workshop will be showing from November 19 – 30 at the Segal Centre for Performing Arts Studio, Montreal for more information and tickets: blacktheatreworkshop.ca

## Pages
- [Cookie Policy (CA)](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/cookie-policy-ca/): This page was last changed on July 29, 2026, last checked on July 29, 2026 and applies to citizens and legal permanent residents of Canada.
- [About](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/about/): Celebrating over 30 years of community-centered journalism and empowerment in Montreal.
- [Contact](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/contact/): Contact the Community Contact team in Montreal. Phone 514-489-4540. Office hours Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- [Submit a Story](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/submit-a-story/): Send your story, event or photos to Community Contact. Our editors review every submission from Montreal's Black and Caribbean communities.
- [Advertise with Us](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/advertise-with-us/): Advertise with Community Contact. Reach 12,000–15,000 readers per issue across print, web and social.
- [Events](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/events/): Discover upcoming events, workshops, and gatherings designed to empower and unite the Montreal community.
- [Volunteer](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/volunteer/): Volunteer with Community Contact. Write, photograph, edit or support community events in Montreal.
- [Donate](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/donate/): Reach Montreal's Black and Caribbean communities. Partner with a trusted voice.
- [Media Kit](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/media-kit/): Download the Community Contact media kit for ad rates, audience demographics and distribution details.
- [Home](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/): Community Contact is Montreal's Black and Caribbean community newspaper. Local news, events, opinion, sports and culture since 1992.
- [Thank You](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/thank-you/): Community journalism costs but the Contact is in it for the long haul. Thanks to your help, we wil continue to tell the stories of Quebec’s Black and Caribbean community.
- [Donate](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/donate-old/): For nearly three decades, Montreal Community Contact has been telling the stories of Quebec Black and Caribbean Community.
- [Thank You for becoming a Member](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/membership-thank-you/): Thank you for becoming a member. We appreciate you contributing to the Montreal Community Contact.
- [Password Reset](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/membership-login/password-reset/)
- [Profile](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/membership-login/membership-profile/)
- [Member Login](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/membership-login/)
- [Registration](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/membership-join/membership-registration/)
- [Support us, Become a Member](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/membership-join/): Great community journalism requires time, effort and money. For 25 years the Montreal Community Contact has been providing you with great content. Now, more than ever, we need your support. Consider becoming a member in order to get access to content that only members can access. Choose one of the many membership options below:
- [Our Writers](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/our-writers/)
- [Sample Page](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/sample-page/): This is an example page. It's different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will show up in your site navigation (in most themes). Most people start with an About page that introduces them to potential site visitors. It might say something like this:
- [Topics](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/topics/)
- [Advertise with Us](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/advertise-with-us-old/): A BIG DEAL: montrealcommuniycontact.com
- [Contact Us](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/contact-us-old/): Montreal Community CONTACT
- [About Us](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/about-us-old/): Montreal Community Contact is a newspaper serving Quebec's Black and Caribbean community.
- [Montreal Community Contact](https://mtlcommunitycontact.com/home/)