Mayor Bevilacqua recognizes Black History Month
Vaughan is enriched by the diversity of its citizens
Mayor
Bevilacqua issued the following statement, marking the beginning of Black
History Month:
“As Mayor of one of the most
culturally rich and diverse cities in Canada, I welcome the beginning of Black
History Month today and look forward to honouring and celebrating the many
achievements and contributions Canadians of African and Caribbean
heritage have made in Vaughan and throughout Canada.
“As Vaughan citizens, we
understand and appreciate the importance of honouring our roots, so they can be
shared with younger generations, with family and with our neighbours.
“Our city is fortunate to have
active and engaged Caribbean-Canadian and African-Canadian communities, from
which we all benefit.
“Vaughan is home to the Thornhill African Caribbean Canadian
Association, the Vaughan African Canadian Association and many other organizations,
who have taken up the challenge of promoting and preserving the history and
heritage of their respective communities.
“Recognizing the importance of
our city’s culture and diversity, I also recently announced the creation of a
new Diversity and Citizen Engagement Advisory Taskforce for the 2018-2022 Term
of Council.
“Last year, Vaughan recognized
the UN International Decade for People of African Descent. By doing so, we join
the international community in acknowledging that people of African descent
represent a distinct group whose human rights must be promoted and protected.
“Respect, generosity and
community have helped form a foundation in Vaughan strong enough to ensure future
generations of people from all walks of life will proudly come to call our city
home.
“History and heritage months
and flag-raisings are only a few of the ways the City demonstrates its
commitment to fostering a greater sense of awareness and appreciation for the
diversity of cultures, creeds and faiths that thrive throughout our community.
“The
City’s Black History Month Observance Ceremony, taking place Sunday, Feb. 24 at
Vaughan City Hall, is one of several events scheduled this month. There will
also be three library readings for residents to learn more about the local,
national and globally renowned trailblazers of history.
“These
experiences seek to provide opportunities for Vaughan citizens to learn more about the vital role the black community
has made – and continues to make – in shaping the diverse, compassionate and
prosperous country we know today.”
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