February is Black History Month
What is Black History month?
February is designated as Black History Month and is a time to honour and celebrate voices of Black Canadians, and how individuals have bettered Canada’s diverse communities and culture. The Canadian government recognises that Black History month is a time to learn more about Canadian stories and the many other important contributions that Black Canadians and their communities have made to the history and continued growth of this country” (Government of Canada, 2025).
Specifically, when seen through the lens of psychology, Black history month can be a time to reflect and learn how historical trauma, resilience, identity, and systemic oppression can shape both individual and collective experiences. This approach can reveal the emotional impact of history beyond events and dates.
Black history in North America is shaped by enduring adversity. This includes slavery, segregation, and ongoing systemic racism. These experiences are not just historical concepts. These are patterns of harm that continue to affect communities today. Psychology describes this as collective trauma. This is considered the combined psychological impact of long term oppression experienced by a specific group of people (Hirschberger, 2018).
In a counselling session, it is important to note how historical trauma can influence stress responses, physical health, emotional regulation, and coping behaviours across generations. It is just as important to remember that these outcomes are not signs of individual weakness. Counsellors and therapists should acknowledge collective trauma and Black history by naming systemic racism, validating lived experiences, avoiding minimisation, and inviting clients to define what feels important. By using culturally responsive language, humility, and having a sense of curiosity, therapists can help honour historical context while focusing on the client’s individual story and needs.
So what can you do?
Small and intentional actions can build awareness and understanding. Here are some accessible ways to learn more:
Educate
- Read books, articles, or essays by Black authors
- Learn about lesser-known figures and events, not just well-known names
- Explore Black history beyond slavery—art, science, activism, psychology, and joy
Absorb
- Watch documentaries, films, or interviews centered on Black experiences
- Listen to podcasts or talks by Black scholars, creators, and activists
- Follow Black educators or historians on social media
Reflect
- Reflect on how history shapes present-day systems and experiences
- Consider how privilege, bias, and opportunity affect different communities
- Be open to discomfort as part of learning
️Engage
- Attend local Black History Month events, lectures, or museum exhibits
- Support Black-owned businesses and organizations
- Participate in community discussions or panels
Continue
- Continue learning year-round
- Advocate for inclusive education and equitable policies
- Use what you learn to challenge stereotypes and misinformation in everyday conversations
- Continue to learn, use curiosity, and be respectful
There is far more to Black History month than can be covered in a singular blog. Below are some resources for continued learning and exploration:
https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/black-history-month/about.html
https://www.edx.org/resources/this-black-history-month-lets-learn-together
https://www.emdria.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/GWT.2020.Vol_.25.Issue_.3.RacialTrauma.ALL_.pdf
Article on “Internalized Racism and Mental Health: The Moderating Role of Collective Racial Self-Esteem” https://www.mdpi.com/2076-328X/14/11/1003
References
Government of Canada. (2025). February is Black history month [Campaigns]. Black History Month. https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/black-history-month.html
Hirschberger, G. (2018). Collective trauma and the social construction of meaning. Frontiers in Psychology, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01441