Official Recognition of Africa Day by the City of Montreal

It is with palpable emotion and immense pride that the members of the municipal council adopted, for the very first time, an official declaration recognizing May 25 as Africa Day. This event marks a historic milestone, celebrating the deep cultural and economic ties between the Quebec metropolis and the African continent — a true pillar of the global Francophonie.

During the session, several prominent figures from African communities were present to witness this symbolic adoption: the Honorable Senator Amina Gerba, Guy Étoundi Passi, Director General of the African Federation of Canada, Vice President Armel Bamba, as well as numerous cultural representatives, journalists, and community leaders.

This declaration is far more than a ceremonial gesture. It embodies an affirmation of inclusion, diversity, and recognition. It highlights a continent rich in history, culture, and humanity, while emphasizing the exceptional contribution of the African diaspora to Montreal society.

“These Montrealers of African descent are not merely part of our social fabric; they are its architects — the builders of our present and our future,” said Councillor Gracia Kasoki Katahwa with emotion.

She reminded everyone that Montreal is now one of the most dynamic hubs of the African diaspora in Canada, a vibrant community shaping the city’s culture, economy, research, and social life.

May 25 marks a historic date: the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963 in Addis Ababa — now known as the African Union. This event symbolizes the struggle for freedom, dignity, and self-determination of African peoples.

The Pan-African spirit continues to inspire the world. In Montreal, it resonates through emblematic figures such as Senator Gerba, entrepreneur Ben Cendré, and artist Makakoto, all committed to building bridges between Canada and Africa.

African vitality also flourishes through culture, cuisine, and the arts. Establishments such as La Maison de l’Afrique Mandigo, Le Nil Bleu restaurant, and La Belle Afrique embody this living connection between continents.

Major festivals such as Nuits d’Afrique, Vues d’Afrique, Festival du monde arabe, and Afromonde offer the city unique moments of sharing and openness.

According to the declaration, these initiatives are

“spaces of encounters and celebrations that enrich the Montreal cultural scene and our shared coexistence in invaluable ways.”

The recognition of this day also highlights the importance of strengthening economic and environmental partnerships between Montreal and African nations.

Africa, endowed with immense potential in renewable energy and biodiversity, shares with Montreal a common vision of sustainable and inclusive development.

“By joining forces, we can co-develop green projects and contribute to preserving our planet for future generations,”stated Councillor Kasoki.

Councillor Josué Corville paid a heartfelt tribute to the greatness of the African continent, reminding everyone that it is the cradle of humanity and home to exceptional linguistic and cultural diversity.

“Africa is not a past we mourn, but a future rooted in memory and fueled by dignity,” he quoted from author Béné Emmanuel Baï Bakana.

Councillor Alya Hassan-Cournel also spoke about her attachment to North Africa, particularly Egypt, which she described as

“the mother of the Earth, the cradle of civilization.”

She emphasized the importance of the Pan-African movement launched by Nasser in 1956, a symbol of unity and autonomy, and stressed the need to strengthen economic exchanges between Canada and the African continent.

In a heartfelt tribute to Montreal’s vibrant and diverse culture, she mentioned various local initiatives — from La Caire Café to the Senegalese collective that recently organized the first Senegalese and Swiss wrestling gala in Montreal.

The session concluded with applause, filled with an atmosphere of pride and gratitude.

The now officially recognized Africa Day becomes a powerful symbol of solidarity, respect, and openness.

It embodies the belief, as Councillor Corville reminded, that

“in a certain way, we are all a little African.”