Although historically Scottish in origin, The Presbyterian Church in Canada has several vibrant congregations with predominantly black and multicultural members. University Presbyterian, Toronto, Malvern and St. David's, Scarborough, Eglise St. Luc, Montreal, and the Ghanaian Churches in Montreal and Toronto all have a large black contingent.
Half of Malvern's congregation is Indo-Caribbean, and one quarter is of African descent. In an effort not to single out a particular group, the congregation won't formally celebrate Black History Month in church. However, the diverse mix of people at Malvern — located in one of Toronto's most troubled neighbourhoods — provides new ways to worship in a Presbyterian church. Rev. Wayne Kleinsteuber, minister at Malvern, enjoys the church's upbeat atmosphere. "We're definitely having fun!" he said. To honour his congregation's African contingent, services sometimes include a traditional African-style offering procession, accompanied by joyous singing and dancing. This new year marks the second time Malvern has had a new year's eve service, which is an African and Caribbean custom.
Knox College is recognizing the month by welcoming Rev. Collin Cowan, a United Church minister in Kingston, Jamaica and Moderator of the United Church of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. He will be speaking with students and clergy, and will participate in discussion forums.
Black history has been celebrated in the United States since 1926, when it was named Negro History Week. In 1976, the event grew into Black History Month, and is now celebrated internationally in February.
It was originally created by American historian Carter G. Woodson. He recognized the absence of black history in official books and records, and sought to raise awareness of contributions made by Africans. Canada joined the movement in 1995, when parliament officially recognized the commemorative month. The motion was brought forward by Jean Augustine, the first black woman to be elected to parliament.
The first recorded person of African descent to enter Canada was Mathieu de Costa in 1604. It is believed he arrived with Samuel de Champlain, and worked as an interpreter between the Europeans and Canada's aboriginal peoples. Although de Costa was a free man, slavery existed in Canada from 1628 until it was abolished in 1838. Upper Canada (what is now Ontario) abolished slavery 90 years earlier. Because of Canada's decision, the country was an important refuge for blacks escaping slavery in the U.S. through the Underground Railroad.
According to the 2001 Census, more than 650,000 Canadians called themselves black; 78 per cent of which live in Vancouver, Toronto, Ottawa-Gatineau, Montreal and Halifax.
Amy MacLachlan
