Liberty Silver to headline the City of Vaughan’s virtual Black History Month event

Feb. 1, 2022 2:30 p.m.
​The annual event will take place on Sunday, Feb. 13 at 2 p.m.

Black History Month provides an opportunity to share and learn about the experiences, contributions and achievements of peoples of African and Caribbean ancestry. The City of Vaughan will commemorate Black History Month with a special virtual event on Sunday, Feb. 13 at 2 p.m.

This year’s celebration will be emceed by Emmy award-winning TV host Patricia Jaggernauth and headlined by multiple JUNO award-winning and Grammy award-winning (collaboration) recording artist Liberty Silver accompanied by musical director Eddie Bullen. Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua will provide greetings and recognition on behalf of Members of Council.

Additional entertainment will include:

  • a performance by Mo Guzman, solo acoustic artist.
  • a poetry and folk song performance by Tania Hernandez, Jamaican folklorist, author, music recording artist, mentor, sponsor and actor in children’s theatre.
  • a poetry performance by Jumol Royes, senior communications strategist and storyteller.
  • an artist segment by McMichael Canadian Art Collection featuring a discussion with the Chief Curator Sarah Milroy and Gaëtane Verna, director of The Power Plant
  • Contemporary Art Gallery, on the history of art by Black Canadian women, viewed from the vantage point of their exhibition Denyse Thomasos: Odyssey.
  • a local restaurant segment featuring Caribbean cuisine by Tropical Island Caribbean Restaurant.
  • a Vaughan Public Libraries: #BookTok video sharing the covers of recommended books.
  • a tribute video recognizing the Honourable Jean Augustine.

Citizens are encouraged to get involved in this year’s virtual Black History Month event by telling us about the Black changemakers who have inspired them. To participate, citizens can record a 10- to 15-second video message sharing their thoughts on a noteworthy Black Canadian changemaker who has inspired, empowered and exemplified exceptional leadership in their life or community and the reason why. Video submissions can be sent to vaughancelebrates@vaughan.ca until Wednesday, Feb. 2 and may be featured in the City’s virtual event.

Throughout the month of February, Vaughan Public Libraries will be hosting a variety of virtual programming and events in recognition of Black History Month:

Black Excellence in STEM Careers and Research
  • Monday, Feb. 7 at 7 p.m.
  • Margaret Ikape, PhD candidate at the University of Toronto, shares her passion for science, her journey and research interests in the fields of Astronomy and Astrophysics.
  • Register on Eventbrite.

Celebrate with Stories, Music and Dance
  • Friday, Feb. 11 at 10 a.m.
  • Join us for a special African Voyage featuring uplifting and energizing stories, music and dance with Njacko Backo. In this interactive performance, students will learn the important role that music, dance and storytelling play in everyday life in Cameroon, Central Africa. For Grades 3 to 6.
  • Register on Eventbrite.

Officially recognized in December 1995 by the Parliament of Canada, and supported by Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua during his tenure as a Member of Parliament, Black History Month is observed across Canada every February. It is a celebration that unites communities, like Vaughan, and honours the people and communities who have made lasting city-building – and nation-building – contributions.

QUOTE

"I am pleased to invite members of our community to join us, virtually, for the City of Vaughan's annual Black History Month celebration on Sunday, Feb. 13. Each year, this much-anticipated event provides an opportunity to learn about Black Canadians' compelling stories and their essential role in the growth and development of our city and country. As we welcome Black History Month, I encourage you to reflect, recognize and remember the people and events in the African diaspora that have positively changed the course of history. At the City, we take great pride in providing an exceptional quality of life, where everyone is encouraged to reach their full potential, actively participate in civic life and be treated with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. 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 Maurizio Bevilacqua

QUICK FACTS

  • Vaughan has a diverse community. In fact, nearly half of the city’s population was born abroad, and 105 different languages are spoken in Vaughan.
  • Recognizing history and heritage months and flag-raisings are just some of the many ways the City demonstrates its commitment to fostering a greater sense of community, awareness and appreciation for the diversity of cultures, creeds and faiths that thrive throughout the city.
  • For updates and news as they happen, subscribe to Vaughan News and follow the official corporate channels on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

LEARN MORE

  • vaughan.ca/events
  • vaughanpl.info
  • City of Vaughan’s virtual 2021 Black History Month event video
  • News release: Mayor Bevilacqua presents Jean Augustine with Key to the City
  • News release: City reaffirms commitment to foster an inclusive community
  • Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua’s statement on Black History Month
  • Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua’s statement proclaiming Lincoln Alexander Day
  • City of Vaughan’s 2018-2022 Term of Council Service Excellence Strategic Plan webpage

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