During the nineteenth century, escaped slaves and
free blacks migrated to Canada with dreams of a
better life, a world that promised both
opportunities and obstacles. African Canadians
helped forge Canada, yet by the end of the
nineteenth century, increased European immigration
pushed Black Canadians into the lowest status,
lowest pay, menial / unskilled jobs. Despite these
restrictions, African Canadians set down roots and
proudly established their own communities. | African Canadians had defended Canada in every
war at least since the War of 1812. However, during
World War II, they won the right for the first time
to enlist in the same units as their white
counterparts. Afterwards, they increasingly agitated
for inclusion in all aspects of society.
This exhibit seeks to locate the voices and
stories of Hamilton’s Black community within the
context of the larger experiences of African
-Canadians. At heart, the project celebrates and
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