January 27, 2022

February is Black History Month in South Grey

The United Church of Canada says that February is a time to honour the historical and present contributions of peoples of African descent. This could also be a time for congregations to make a commitment to becoming more culturally sensitive, racially inclusive, and justice-conscious.

BY SOUTHGREY.CA STAFF — Every February, people in Canada are invited to participate in Black History Month festivities and events that honour the legacy of Black Canadians and their communities. The theme of this year's honorary month is February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day.

The government of Canada officially declared February as Black History Month 26 years ago. But Black people have helped to shape communities from coast to coast to coast for more than 400 years, well before this country was even called Canada. The month celebrates resilience, innovation, and determination to work towards a more inclusive and diverse community.

Proclamations to recognize February as Black History Month have been issued by the Municipalities of Grey Highlands and West Grey. At the February 2 Township of Chatsworth Council meeting, staff will similarly recommend that their Council officially proclaim Black History Month given Chatsworth's connection to the Underground Railroad and the Negro Creek Settlement area. Although no such proclamation is scheduled yet in West Grey, Mayor Christine Robinson said, "we will be encouraging citizens to visit the federal government's website which has excellent resources for engagement and education."

Throughout the month of February, JunCtian Community Initiatives (JCI) will be working with other not-for-profit organizations locally and around the world to promote and participate in Black History Month programs. "We will be collaborating with Life Directions Employment Center, YWCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce, The Hanley Institute, The Peace Committee in Grey Highlands and The Southgate Library to showcase and promote Black History Month," said President and Executive Officer Joan John.

JCI will broadcast a Black History Month 2022 Kickoff on Tuesday, February 1 at 7:30 pm. The free event can be viewed on your computer or mobile device and/or heard on your phone with a passcode via Zoom. Actor and writer Suzanne (Zan) Coy and education and training director Kwadwo Adusei will host an evening of celebrations featuring stellar appearances by local artists. Poet Laureate of Ontario Randell Adjei will perform as well as singer/recording artist Jay Harmony and singer/songwriter High Tara. Greetings from The JunCtian Network president Garnett Manning, will be rounded out by words from Grey County Warden Selwyn Hicks, Grey Highlands Mayor Paul McQueen and Southgate Mayor John Woodbury. Shelburne Deputy Mayor Steve Anderson as well as dignitaries Lynn Silverton, Frances Bradshaw and Dr. Njoki Wane will complete the affair.

To attend the JCI Black History Month 2022 Kickoff, use the meeting ID number 85066461739 and provide the passcode 901577. To listen by phone, call 647-374-4685.

To get involved and organize your own Black History event over the coming month, a digital toolkit which includes poster, message and transcript will be available for download from the Canadian Heritage website in February.

 

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