Recognizing Black History in Vaughan
Honouring the past. Celebrating the present. Inspiring the future.
Black history lives here in Vaughan. This February, we recognize some of the Black Canadians whose stories of resilience, leadership and community have helped shape Vaughan into the city it is today.
Andrew Wiggins and Marita Payne
Andrew Wiggins, born in Toronto in 1995 and raised in Thornhill, is one of Canada’s most celebrated basketball players. Wiggins excelled at Vaughan Secondary School before becoming the first overall NBA draft pick in 2014 and winning an NBA Championship in 2022. His mother, Marita Payne, is a renowned Canadian sprinter who represented Canada at the 1984 Summer Olympics, earning two silver medals in relay events.
Armstrong Family
The Armstrong family came to Vaughan in 1851 using the Underground Railroad. After the 1850 Fugitive Slave Act led to the kidnapping and enslavement of Black people, they sought safety in Canada, settling for a time near the intersection of Elgin Mills and Yonge Street.
Evelyn Morrison
Evelyn Morrison was an active member of the Thornhill community and attended the Thornhill Women’s Institute’s 82nd anniversary party in 1984. Her presence at this event highlights the contributions of Black residents to the social and cultural life of Vaughan and the surrounding area in the late 20th century.
Jean Augustine
Jean Augustine immigrated from Grenada in 1960, earned degrees in education from the University of Toronto and built a distinguished career in public service. In 1993, she became the first African-Canadian woman elected to the House of Commons, later serving as Minister of State for Multiculturalism and the Status of Women. A champion of equity and education, her advocacy led to the official recognition of February as Black History Month in Canada.
Mammy Long
Mammy Long was enslaved by the White family in Vermont and forced to continue serving them after they moved to Concord, Ontario in 1795, despite the 1793 Act to Limit Slavery in Upper Canada, which should have freed her upon arrival. She was forced to continue working as a house servant, doing tasks such as childcare, cleaning, cooking, laundry and mending.
Black Canadians and communities have been vital in shaping Canada’s heritage, culture and identity. Every year, the City proclaims February as Black History Month, a celebration that brings communities together to pay tribute to the remarkable Black Canadians who have made a positive and enduring impact in the community, and highlights the richness of Black cultures and histories.
The City of Vaughan acknowledges that anti-Black racism remains a deeply rooted systemic issue in Canada. Through the Anti-Black Racism Action Plan, the City is committed to meaningful action, accountability and supporting Black communities across Vaughan.
Discover these stories and more through the City of Vaughan Archives at vaughan.ca/archives.
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