#Canada #Vancouver #Royal Canadian Mint #Black History #Hogan's Alley

Royal Canadian Mint Honors Hogan's Alley Community

As we welcome the month of February, commemorated as Black History Month across Canada, the Royal Canadian Mint has taken a significant step in celebrating the rich history of Hogan's Alley, a historic Black community in Vancouver. This vibrant neighborhood experienced its glory days throughout the early 20th century, significantly impacting the cultural landscape of the region.

A Glimpse into Hogan's Alley

The roots of Hogan's Alley trace back to 1858 when Black settlers began to establish their lives in Vancouver. By the 1970s, it thrived as a hub for Black entrepreneurs, entertainers, and families. The area boasted numerous small businesses, entertainment venues, and some of the most beloved restaurants, standing as a symbol of the resilience and creativity of its residents.

Unfortunately, Hogan's Alley faced a tragic fate due to inequitable urban planning policies that led to its demolition for the construction of a roadway project. However, the memory and spirit of this community continue to live on the efforts of modern leaders who seek to revitalize its legacy. As part of this ongoing journey, the Mint's 2025 commemorative silver coin celebrates Hogan's Alley’s irreversible spirit.

A Commemorative Coin

This series features a fine silver coin, available starting February 4, 2025, allowing collectors and history buffs to honor this remarkable community. Djaka Blais, executive director of the Hogan's Alley Society, emphasizes the coin's importance in recognizing the historical presence and contributions of Black Canadians to the city of Vancouver.

"It is vital to acknowledge the rich historical heritage that shaped our community as we advocate for the resurgence of a cultural hub for Black individuals in Metro Vancouver," Blais states. "This commemorative coin provides a significant recognition of Hogan's Alley’s history and spirit."

Royal Canadian Mint’s CEO, Marie Lemay, adds that the Mint is dedicated to bringing to light the diverse narratives within Canada's history through collectible coins. The 2025 edition serves as a proud tribute to Black History Month, highlighting important chapters in Canada's rich and diverse historical narrative that ought to be preserved for posterity.

Artistic Representation

The coin’s reverse side, illustrated by artist Kwame Delfish, features a remarkable collage representing the community's vibrant spirit and vitality. At the center, the provincial flower of British Columbia, the Pacific dogwood, is surrounded by symbols of Hogan's Alley’s rich cultural heritage. Figures depicted include a Black porter serving on a railway sleeping car, a cook from one of the famed women-owned chicken restaurants, and a choir representative of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Delfish remarks, "This coin pays homage to the vibrant community of Hogan's Alley. It’s essential to move beyond the narrative of housing discrimination that contributed to the settlement of Black Canadians and celebrate the rich culture and entrepreneurial spirit of this community."

The Mint has limited the mintage of the fine silver coin to 5,000 pieces, available at a price of $119.95. Those interested can order online via Mint’s official website or contact their call center.

Conclusion

The Royal Canadian Mint’s initiative to commemorate Hogan's Alley exemplifies an essential step in recovering and recognizing the contributions of Black communities in shaping Canadian history. By highlighting these stories through art and collectibles, it encourages ongoing dialogues about heritage, perseverance, and cultural pride—truly a resonant tribute for Black History Month and beyond.