In photos: U of T's Black History Month Luncheon 2026

“I love Canada because…”

With that prompt, Glen Boothe invited the audience at the University of Toronto's 24th annual Black History Month Luncheon to reflect on what the country means to them. Two attendees rose to share their answers – one celebrated Canada’s multiculturalism; the other highlighted its role as a place of freedom for her ancestors.

It was a fitting start to an event centred on the theme of "Celebrating Canada," honouring the contributions, creativity and leadership of Black communities across the country.

The annual luncheon began as a simple potluck among colleagues two decades ago, started by Boothe. It has since grown into one of U of T's signature Black History Month events.

Keynote speaker and U of T Chancellor Wes Hall – a business leader, entrepreneur and anti-racism advocate perhaps best known to many as a TV personality and investor on CBC's Dragons' Den – was presented with an advancement achievement award recognizing his entrepreneurship, philanthropy and inspiring work as a role model.

Hall thanked the university for the honour.

“To receive the achievement award is not just recognition of my story, it’s recognition of the hard work that so many before me have done,” he said.

David Palmer, U of T's vice-president of advancement, thanked Boothe and the volunteers who have made the event possible year after year.

"We are so proud to be a part of this celebration," said Palmer.

The event drew a standing-room-only crowd to the Great Hall in Hart House on the St. George campus, with many more tuning in via livestream across all three campuses.

Attendees heard from Ontario's poet laureate Matthew-Ray "Testament" Jones and singer Kolette Easy, who performed songs by iconic Canadian artists including Jully Black and Deborah Cox. 

U of T President Melanie Woodin said she’s always looks forward to U of T’s Black History Month celebrations – particularly the luncheon.

“I wanted to offer my deep appreciation to the members of our community across all three campuses who help make this event a wonderful annual celebration,” said Woodin.

“This year, the event feels more meaningful. At a time when we are witnessing regressive forces around the world seeking to dismantle civil rights and roll back even the most basic conception of fairness and shared humanity, gatherings like this matter even more.”

Before lunch was served, Hall sat down for a conversation with Brandon Gonez, host of the Brandon Gonez Show. He reflected on the role failure has played in his success.

Hall told the audience that he has made countless mistakes over the course of his career – and that it’s okay to do so. Missteps aren't setbacks, said Hall – a philosophy he traced back to his grandmother, whose voice has stayed with him through every milestone of his career.