Part of the vision of the OBHS has been to establish a Black History Museum in Toronto. We have long known the importance it holds and the times we are today in the uprising of BLM during the summer of 2020 and emergency distance learning due to COVID-19, reaffirms the critical need for such a cultural and heritage space. It is our desire to realize this vision.

We are aiming to raise $3.5 million to establish the only museum in Toronto dedicated to Black histories. In the soft launch of our capital campaign that I am excited to share with you now, I wanted to outline the working phases of our fundraising campaign:

Phase 1: of our fundraising effort is a campaign has a target of $750, 000 to meet our priority of raising funds to go towards a down payment or a long-term lease

Phase 2: plans and renderings architecture and design firm and engineer firm $200, 000 - $300, 000

Phase 3: technology capabilities for the space $500, 000

Phase 4: renovations/construction $1 million (general construction and rehabilitation of the facility to prepare the building to for move in)

• Interactive exhibit spaces

• A performance and theatre hall /hall with theatre capabilities– a space for talks, events

• Office space

• Classroom/community workspaces

• Archive space

• Library and research room

• gift shop

Phase 5: operations for 2 years $1 million

We have $100, 000 towards our phase 1 goal of $750,000. The OBHS welcomes donations small and large; community gifts and major gifts and legacy gifts; and we welcome private donors and patrons. We are accepting donations earmarked for our museum capital campaign and general donations online through Canada Helps. Visit our website to learn about ways to donate and how to become members.

Look out for our official press release and campaign kick-off coming soon.

Donate here, thank you!