City of Vaughan recognizes Black History Month
Black Canadians and
their communities have been vital in shaping Canada’s heritage and identity. Black History Month provides the City of
Vaughan with an opportunity to reflect, learn and educate citizens on the experiences,
contributions and achievements of Black Canadians and the many diverse Black
communities.
The City will commemorate Black History Month throughout February, and this includes hosting multiple events. Details are as follows:
SUNDAY, FEB. 12
You’re invited to attend the City’s signature Black History Month event, emceed by CP24's Eden Debebe, at Vaughan City Hall (2141 Major Mackenzie Dr. W.), from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. It will feature:
- remarks from Mayor Steven Del Duca.
- a keynote address from the Honourable Jean Augustine, passionate educator, lifelong public servant and nation builder, and a recipient of the Key to the City of Vaughan.
- a vocal performance from Glenn Marais, JUNO nominated singer and songwriter.
- a spoken-word performance from Jumol Royes, poet, storyteller and member of the City’s Addressing Anti-Black Racism Special Advisory Committee.
- an overview of the City’s Addressing Anti-Black Racism Community Engagement Action Plan.
- a steel pan drum performance.
Refreshments will be served. Learn more at vaughan.ca/culture.
MONDAY, FEB. 13
Join Vaughan Public Libraries (VPL) – virtually – for Black Excellence in STEM Careers: Diversity in Engineering. This special showcase features a presentation by Gary Thompson, P.Eng., electrical engineer and energy specialist. As an engineering practitioner and advocate for diversity in engineering, Gary will share his experiences and opportunities for success in the STEM field. Watch live via Zoom at 7 p.m. Register to participate.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22
Watch a special screening of Steadfast: The Messenger and the Message, an autobiography based on the life and exploits of the Honourable Jean Augustine, at the City Playhouse Theatre (1000 New Westminster Dr.), from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Further details will be posted to vaughan.ca/culture as they become available.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22
Kids in grades three through seven are invited to attend VPL’s Kids' Book Club Read – New Kid by Jerry Craft – at the Dufferin Clark Library (1441 Clark Ave. W.) at 6:30 p.m. The book tells a story of a 12-year-old African American boy who experiences culture shock when joining a private school. Learn more about this session.
TUESDAY, FEB. 28
VPL will host Between the Lines: A Book Club about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the Pierre Berton Resource Library (4921 Rutherford Rd). Beginning at 7 p.m., you’re invited to join and discuss The Skin We're In by Desmond Cole – a book about the injustices faced by Black Canadians, including racist policing, the failing education system and discriminatory immigration laws. Register to participate.
These are some of the ways the City of Vaughan is celebrating Black Canadians during Black History Month. To learn more, visit vaughan.ca/culture.
QUOTE
“On behalf of Members of Council, I am pleased to recognize and celebrate Black History Month in the city of Vaughan. This is a time to learn about the unique and inspiring stories of Black Canadians and their important role in the growth, development and history of our city, province and country. Celebrating Black History Month provides an opportunity to reflect, recognize and remember the people and events in the African diaspora that changed the course of history. As one of Canada's most culturally rich and diverse cities, we are pleased to celebrate the contributions of Black Canadians during Black History Month and beyond.”
- Mayor Steven Del Duca
QUICK FACTS
- The City of Vaughan recognizes Black History Month annually.
- The City’s 2023 Black History Month commemorations will include community events throughout February that are open to the public.
LEARN MORE
- The City of Vaughan’s Black History Month event webpage.