February 03, 2025

Black History Month kicks off in high fashion

Photo: JCI founder Joan John with Mistresses of Ceremony Safoorah Forde and Kimone Rodney.

BY LYNN SILVERTON — February is Black History Month. Last Saturday, your local JunCtian Community Initiatives (JCI) of Southgate and Beyond held its opening day of their month long celebration of our black communities. Items of interest observed by Southgate Deputy Mayor Barbara Dobreen and I included 11-year-old Daynivya Gray, of Highpoint Community School Student who spoke about Race and Racism. She proved to be a remarkable speaker with a powerful message.

Presenters show off a scarf marking the occasion.

Two mini fashion shows between groups of speakers showed the brilliant colourful clothes from many of the predominantly black countries throughout the world. Southgate Mayor Brian Milne, West Grey Mayor Kevin Eccles, Southgate Deputy Mayor Barbara and Ontario Progressive Conservative Candidate Paul Vickers, all spoke of the importance of the recognition of events such as this. And the many other presenters brought forward messages including Dare to be the first; Dare to dream; Aspire to Challenge; The Status Quo; Break Down Barriers to achieve your goals and Hope, and Unity.

Some of the presenters included spoken word poet Ronetta Billy, who shared a poem she wrote and Kelly Cockfield sang our national anthem beautifully. Shekinah Woodley and Ezra Mitchell each shared their vocal talents, uplifting and moving the audience with every note. Kevin Lefebvre, from the Bluewater District School Board — who committed to inclusive education, speaking about the JCI Black Student Forum and other programs to amplify student voices, and Southeast Grey Community Health Centre (SEGCHC) spoke of a coordinated effort to deliver an holistic approach to healthcare including mental health and addiction support.

I as Chair of the JCI Board and the Peace Committee Board, proudly spoke of the cooperation and support by these two entities working together towards a common goal, permanent peace for all mankind. Joan John — Southgate Councillor and founder of JCI — spoke of those that helped her organize and create the evening. It was expertly moderated by the Mistresses of Ceremony Safoorah Forde and Kimone Rodney. Afterwards, we all enjoyed delicious Caribbean foods and mixed and mingled. Another great job, Joan — well done. Please dear readers, plan on attending at least one of the next events this month you'll find it enlightening.

 

---

At South Grey News, we endeavour to bring you truthful and factual, up-to-date local community news in a quick and easy-to-digest format that’s free of political bias. We believe this service is more important today than ever before, as social media has given rise to misinformation, largely unchecked by big corporations who put profits ahead of their responsibilities.

South Grey News does not have the resources of a big corporation. We are a small, locally owned-and-operated organization. Research, analysis and physical attendance at public meetings and community events requires considerable effort. But contributions from readers and advertisers, however big or small, go a long way to helping us deliver positive, open and honest journalism for this community.

Please consider supporting South Grey News with a donation in lieu of a subscription fee and let us know that our efforts are appreciated. Thank you.