BRAMPTON, ON (January 24, 2024) – Today, Mayor Patrick Brown and members of Council proclaimed February Black History Month in Brampton. Throughout the month of February, the City of Brampton honours the many achievements and contributions of the Black community who throughout history have contributed so much to make Brampton the vibrant, compassionate and prosperous city it is today.
Throughout February, celebrate Black History Month with a series of City-led events, community activities and educational programming.
Black History Month events
Pan-African Flag Raising
Thursday, February 1, 2024
4 – 4:30 PM
Ken Whillans Square
Signature Event: Honouring 100 Black Community Builders and Champions
Thursday, February 1, 2024
5 – 9:30 PM
The Rose Theatre
The UN General Assembly proclaimed 2015-2024 as the International Decade for People of African Descent (resolution 68/237) citing the need to strengthen national, regional and international cooperation in relation to the full enjoyment of economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights by people of African descent, and their full and equal participation in all aspects of society.
The General Assembly proclaimed the theme for the International Decade “People of African descent: recognition, justice and development.”
In keeping with this theme and acknowledging the final year of this proclamation, the City of Brampton presents a signatory event in support of our commitment to the upliftment of the economic, social, cultural and youth of Brampton’s Black communities representing all people of African descent.
Experience a special screening of Steadfast: The Jean Augustine Story, followed by insights from the trailblazer who made history as the first African Canadian woman elected to the House of Commons, The Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine.
The evening will feature a special Mayor’s award presentation that will honour 100 Community Builders and Champions from the Black community.
Community members that will be honoured include:
- Dr. Rhonda McEwen, President of Victoria University, University of Toronto
- Royson James, Award Winning Journalist
- Honorable Zanana Akande
- Peter Sloly, Community leader and CEO, Sloly Solutions Inc.
- Angela Carter, Roots Community Services Inc.
- Nosa Ero-Brown, Chief Talent Officer and Associate Deputy Minister, Ontario Government
- Pastor Rob, Kingdom House
- Tania Meikle, Kingdom House
- Robert Small, Order of Canada
- Erika Alexander, Representative of Hon Lincoln Alexander History
- Kirk Mark, Community Leader, Education & Equity Specialist
- Dr. Winston LaRose
- Kathy Grant, Black Canadian Veterans Historian
- Quammie Williams, Community Leader and Activist
- Ginelle Skerritt, CEO, York Region Children’s Aid Society, Community Leader
- Rosemary Sadlier, Past President, Ontario Black History Society
- Kathy McDonald, Trustee, Peel District School Board
- Orlando Bowen, One Voice One Team
- Black Inventors Museum
- Ontario Black History Society
The City thanks its generous sponsors, Algoma University and Toronto Pearson.
Brampton On Stage Performances
Celebrate Black History Month with Brampton On Stage.
- February 2 at The Rose: Solid Gold – An Evening with Tynomi Banks
- February 2 at Cyril Clark: Pimento Featuring King Cosmos: Celebrating the Music of Harry Belafonte
- February 3 at The Rose Studio: Stand-Up Stitches curated by Keesha Brownie
- February 15 at LBP: Kandace Springs
- February 16 at The Rose Studio: HYPE curated by Jemane Kent
- February 17 at LBP: The Jay Martin Comedy Series featuring Nick Reynoldson and Ms. B
- February 22 at The Rose: Flavours & Vibes - Jesse Royal Live in Concert
The Legacy Lives On, The Work Continues
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
Lester B. Pearson Memorial Theatre, 150 Central Park Dr, Brampton, ON L6T 1B4
6 – 9 PM
A community conversation to discuss where we are now and where we need to go.
Brampton Fire and Emergency Services
To honour the many achievements and contributions of the Black community, for the second year, Brampton Fire and Emergency Services (BFES) will have a dedicated fire truck showcasing the contributions from the Black community that helped shape the international fire service, serving as a learning and education opportunity for the Brampton community.
Brampton Library
Join Brampton Library throughout February in eight branches and online for free programs and events featuring self-care and wellness for Black community members, success stories from Black-owned businesses, and author visits. Click here to register. Discover recommended books and other resources to learn about Black history anytime at www.bramptonlibrary.ca.
Brampton’s Black African and Caribbean Social, Cultural and Economic Empowerment and Anti-Black Racism Unit
In 2020, City Council approved a Black African and Caribbean Social, Cultural and Economic Empowerment and Anti-Black Racism Unit. Lead by Senior Advisor, Gwyneth Chapman, the Unit will support and lead the establishment of the unit and develop its action plan on eradicating systemic anti-Black racism in Brampton. Guided by local community stakeholders, work will be centered on uplifting the social, cultural, and economic position of Brampton’s Black community. https://www1.brampton.ca/EN/City-Hall/Equity-Office
Quotes
"I am proud to celebrate Black History Month. Recognizing, honouring and reflecting on the invaluable contributions the Black community has made to our vibrant city is a welcomed tradition. This month is our opportunity to witness the richness of a treasured community in Brampton and I hope all Bramptonians have the chance to come out to an event, learn from listening to an inspirational story or just enjoy what is the beautiful mosaic of Brampton."
- Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton
“Celebrating Black History Month honours diversity and recognizes the profound impact of the Black community on our shared heritage in Brampton. It is not only a time to reflect on history, but to engage in open dialogue and actively work towards a future where every resident feels seen, heard, valued, and most importantly empowered to contribute to shaping our diverse community.”
- Marlon Kallideen, Chief Administrative Officer, City of Brampton
“As a proud member of the Black community, I am honoured to celebrate Black History Month with the Brampton community. This month serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength, and brilliance of our community. In Brampton, we embrace the opportunity to amplify the voices and stories shaping our city and foster a stronger sense of unity and understanding among us all. Black History Month is not just a celebration; it is a call to action, urging us to continue the journey.”
- Gwyneth Chapman, Senior Advisor, Black Economic, Social, Cultural & Youth Development Unit
-30-
As one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, Brampton is home to nearly 700,000 people and more than 90,000 businesses. People are at the heart of everything we do. We are energized by our diverse communities, we attract investment, and we are embarking on a journey to lead technological and environmental innovation. We partner for progress to build a healthy city that is safe, sustainable, and successful. Connect with us on
X (Formerly Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. Learn more at www.brampton.ca
MEDIA CONTACT
City of Brampton Media Relations
