NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF NEWMARKET
*************************
The Town of Newmarket is proud to once again partner with the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) to celebrate Black History Month (Feb. 1 to Feb. 28 ) and to recognize the International Decade for People of African Descent. The theme for this year’s Black History Month is Standing on Strong Shoulders. This theme serves as an acknowledgement and appreciation of the voices of bold Black men and women who have consistently resisted systemic injustices against Black bodies.
“This Black History Month, we encourage everyone in our community to sit with us at the table. We want our Newmarket and York Region communities to see Blacknesses in all of its humanity; its strength, creativity, courage, joy and innovation,” says chairperson, Jerisha Grant-Hall, “only then, can we begin to have real, authentic conversations about the change we want to see.”
There are several educational, entertaining, and informative activities taking place throughout the month of February. In response to COVID-19, NACCA’s executive team and partners have moved the events online. Kicking off the event is an official flag-raising ceremony on Monday, Feb. 1 followed by a virtual celebration/reception. Other activities include a Black panel discussion, an author reading, and a month-long Black-owned online marketplace. For more details on these and more virtual celebrations, please view the Black History Month events page.
“Supporting racialized groups and creating an inclusive community is a priority for the Town of Newmarket,” says Mayor John Taylor. In 2020, the Anti-Black Racism Task Force was created and NACCA has been working tirelessly to create a safe space and resources for the Black community. “The creation of the Anti-Black Racism Taskforce is an important example of our commitment to being an ally to the Black community. We have committed to continue to raise awareness, keep the conversation open. I encourage everyone to take the time to learn more about the Black community by participating in these great events hosted by NACCA.”
The flag-raising video will be posted online on Feb. 1, on the Town’s Facebook and Twitter accounts (@TownofNewmarket). The aim of the flag raising is to encourage residents in Newmarket and York Region to learn more about the decade and what it means for African descendant Canadians and those living in the diaspora. Visit newmarket.ca/blackhistory and naccacommunity.ca for more information.
*************************
