Community News
Not sure how you want to celebrate Black History Month this year? Toronto Caribbean Newspaper Presents…
BY PAUL JUNOR
African-Canadian stories, successes, triumphs, and achievements highlights many diverse expressions of Black excellence, and these stories are on full display in Toronto during the celebration of Black History Month in February 2023.
In Brampton, on Wednesday, February 1st, 2023, there was a BHM month event at Brampton City Hall. There was a Black Markers Market in which local Black businesses showcased their crafts, products and services. It was followed by a celebration of Black Trailblazers featuring award presentations, speakers and performances, and a reception that featured authentic Afro-Caribbean cuisine.
On Wednesday, February 8th, there was a discussion with Brampton Arts Walk of Fame recipient Ian Williams and Jael Richardson, Executive Director of the Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD) at Cyril Clark Theatre. There were conversations regarding Williams’ book “Disorientation: Being Black in the World.” Williams spoke about the books that he wrote and his writing process. There was a question and answer after the sessions ended.
On Friday, February 10th, there was a panel discussion on Unequal Opportunity: Race and Education at Rose Brampton. It was moderated by Eric and featured panelists: Charlie Grant, Chief Advocacy Officer of PoBC, Kathy McDonald’s, Trustee of PDSB,Wards 3 &4, Philadelphia Lloyd-Henry, Coordinating Principal,PDSB and Idris Orughu, Parent Adocate of Peel Advocacy.
On Saturday, February 11th, the WellFort Community Health Services Held its BHM event at Greenbriar Recreation Centre located at 1100 Central Park Avenue in Brampton.
On Saturday, February 18th, there will be a Black Artisan Market will be held from 2:00- 4:00 pm. It is sponsored by the Brampton Library and will feature the work and art of Black artisans. Black businesses specializing in: skincare, drawings, sewing, and digital art will be displayed.
In York Region, the York Region Alliance of African Canadian Communities will hold its sixth annual BHM celebration on Saturday, February 18th, at Bur Oak Secondary School in Markham. The theme is “Harambee; Pulling Together for a Stringer Community.” The keynote speaker will be Dr.Camille Logan, Associate Director of the Peel District School Board. There will be food, entertainment, breakout sessions, and a Black Marketplace. Anyone interested in attending can register at:https://yraccbhm2023.eventbrite.ca
On Tuesday, February 21st, 2023, the Empire Club will host a virtual feature on “Critical Race Theory: The Case for Evaluating What We ” Know” and “How to Teach.” It will be moderated by: Carl James, Professor, Jean Augustine Chair in Education , Community & Diaspora, University of York. Panelists include: Kearie Daniel, Executive Director & Co-founder PoBC, Joshua Sealy-Harrington, Assistant Professor, Lincoln Alexander School of Law at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), and Craig Wellington, Executive Director & CEO, Black Opportunity Fund.
On Thursday, February 23rd, Afroglobal Black History Showcase will be held at the Bellagio Boutique in association with the Carpenters District Council of Ontario, the Painters Union and The Plumber Union. Silvertrust Media, and the Transformation Institute for Leadership are the principal development and implementation partners. The theme of the event is, “Honouring the Past, Inviting the Future.” There will be a celebration of “The No.2 Construction Battalion,” a Canadian expeditionary Force in, First World War. Registrations can be made at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/ afroglobal-black-history-showcase-tickets-507921716527
On Thursday, February 23rd, Citizens for the Advancement of Community Development (CACD) will host their annual BHM event at the Mississauga Valley Community Centre (MVCC). It will showcase cultural display, singing, African drumming, cultural dances, poetry and recitals from various cultural groups.
On Friday, February 24th, 2023, the City of Mississauga in partnership with the Black Caucus will be hosting a Black Excellence event at Mississauga City Hall from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. There will be guest speakers, African drummers, music, art, food and the presentation of the Black Excellence Awards. Nominations closed on Sunday, February 12th, at 11:59. Reservations can be made at https://www.eventrbrite.ca/e/celebration of excellence.