TORONTO – Councillor Neethan Shan’s motion for the City of Toronto to proclaim July as Caribbean Heritage Month was adopted by City Council on Thursday.
“The motion is the result of years of effort by the Caribbean community to have their community recognized in a meaningful way,” said Shan. “It’s a joyous occasion to have the City recognize the accomplishments, the contributions, and the celebrations of the Caribbean community in Toronto.”
The motion was supported by the advocacy of a diverse coalition of Caribbean-Canadian organizations. Proclaiming July as Caribbean Heritage Month in Toronto aligns with a federal initiative by Senator Paulette Senior calling for the month to be recognized nationally. This newly recognized month also coincides with the annual Toronto Caribbean Carnival, the largest festival of its kind in North America.
“This designation offers all residents and visitors a meaningful opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of the Caribbean community, while providing the city a dedicated moment to reflect on the outstanding global and local impacts made by Caribbean Canadians,” said Shan.
The official proclamation came just in time for the Toronto Caribbean Carnival Grand Parade 2026.