Statement: Mayor Bevilacqua recognizes Black History Month
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Honouring the enduring contributions of Black Canadians
Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua issued the following statement to mark the beginning of Black History Month:
“Black History Month is a time to learn about the unique and inspiring stories of Black Canadians and the important role they play in the growth, development and history of our city, province and country.
“As public servants, entrepreneurs, artists, professional and faith leaders, among other important community roles, Black Canadians continue to support our city-building efforts, making Vaughan one of the best places to live, work and visit.
“Vaughan’s Black History Month event, taking place on Sunday, Feb. 23 at Vaughan City Hall, is among the many ways the City demonstrates its commitment to foster greater awareness and appreciation for the cultures and faiths that thrive here.
“Vaughan is a welcoming and inclusive community where diversity is celebrated every day in every way. Our residents come from around the world. In fact, nearly half of our population was born abroad, and 105 different languages are spoken within our borders. 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.
“The City’s Heritage Month Celebrations, such as Black History Month, Jewish Heritage Month, National Indigenous History Month and Italian Heritage Month, are recognized annually to appreciate the many social, cultural and economic contributions of our citizens.
“In Vaughan, we are fortunate to have many community organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history and heritage of the communities they serve.
“As part of the City of Vaughan’s commitment to advancing a culture of co-operation, we recently endorsed and adopted the Vaughan Inclusion Charter in support of the Inclusion Charter for York Region, a community initiative to create a fair and equal environment for all. By endorsing this Charter, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering equality, inclusiveness, respect and acceptance for everyone. To ensure we work toward these goals, Council will be appointing a Diversity and Citizen Engagement Task Force this year.
“Council recently supported a motion I brought forward to proclaim January 21 as Lincoln Alexander Day in the City of Vaughan. Lincoln Alexander was the first Black Canadian to be elected as a Member of Parliament in the House of Commons, to be appointed as a Cabinet Minister and later, as Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. Through his many life’s pursuits, Lincoln Alexander demonstrated an extraordinary capacity for public service and what it truly means to give of oneself for the betterment of others.
“As we recognize Black History Month, we do so while acknowledging the history, values and heritage of the Black community and the champions, like Lincoln Alexander, who help define it.
“This month, I encourage all citizens to learn more about the powerful stories and positive impact of Black Canadians, participate in cultural events taking place in our community, and reaffirm our shared commitment to moving our city forward without leaving anyone behind.”
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