Newmarket’s Black community will continue telling its stories as it prepares for Black History Month.
The Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) and Town of Newmarket have planned the event that will include a flag-raising ceremony, exhibits, presentations and more in February.
This year’s theme of “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now: Telling our Story, Writing our History," is a way to highlight their commitment to this work, said NACCA chair Jerisha Grant-Hall in a presentation to council today, Jan. 22.
“This theme represents the strength and determination of the Black community and its unwavering spirit,” she said. “It is a reminder that despite the challenges we have faced and continue to face, we will not be stopped.”
This is the sixth year that the town and NACCA have partnered to deliver Black History Month events. A full slate of events is planned throughout the month starting Feb. 1, which Grant-Hall said will highlight the achievements and contributions of Black Canadians.
“It is important for everyone, especially Black youth, to feel empowered and proud of their heritage,” she said.
Newmarket Councillor Bob Kwapis thanked NACCA and Grant-Hall for the last six years of effort on Black History Month, “really teaching and exposing us to Black culture, the traditions, getting us involved, in making us better understand some of the struggles, historically, currently, and helping us take down these barriers.”
The month offers Newmarket and other communities the chance to recognize the contributions of Black Canadians, Grant-Hall said.
“We are proud of the strides made to enrich the knowledge,” she said. “From the first settlement of Black people in East Gwillimbury who provided refuge to other Black families in the 1800s to the present-day contributions of Newmarket’s diverse, Black population, we honour and acknowledge the achievements which have shaped and influenced our community."
Councillor Grace Simon said NACCA is truly inspiring.
“You’re giving voice not only to the Black community but for every diverse culture and community that we have here in Newmarket, the importance of standing up, giving a voice, adding representation and working along in the community that you live in,” she said. “Keep going, keep fighting, keep being strong.”
You can find more information at newmarket.ca/blackhistory and naccacommunity.ca.
