Recognizing Black Excellence and Addressing Anti-Black Racism Year-Round

Recognizing Black Excellence and Addressing Anti-Black Racism Year-Round 

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is committed to naming and dismantling anti-Black racism for Black students and staff, and to improve experiences and advance achievement, excellence and success of Black students in our classrooms and schools. 

Our commitment extends beyond Black History Month, with a year-round focus through the Compendium of Action for Black Student Success, continuous engagement and community partnerships. It is our responsibility to listen to Black students, staff and community members, respond purposefully to their experiences, and actively address systemic inequities in the public education system. 

The DDSB was proud to recently host the Ministry of Education’s announcement of incorporating Black Canadian history into the Grades 7, 8 and 10 curriculum that starting in September 2025 will emphasize the significant contributions and history of Black Canadians, integrating it into the broader narrative of Canadian history. As noted in that announcement, teaching Black history ends the practice of telling a single story about our country and is an important step in fostering a more inclusive and equitable education system and society. 

As a member of the Durham Region community, we encourage all community members and organizations to recognize and reflect on the importance of Black History Month and take meaningful steps to identify and dismantle anti-Black racism throughout the year.