Vaughan recognizes Black History Month
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City hosts community
event to commemorate history, culture and heritage
Mayor
Maurizio Bevilacqua and Members of Council gathered with residents at Vaughan City
Hall on Feb. 24 for a Black History Month Observance Ceremony. Both the
Thornhill African Caribbean Canadian Association (TACCA) and the Vaughan
African Canadian Association (VACA) were presented with donations by Mayor
Bevilacqua in recognition for their dedication to cultural enrichment and
education within the community.
Introduced
by TACCA president Vernon Hendrickson, Mayor Bevilacqua delivered an address
highlighting the importance of the city’s culture and diversity and recognizing
the valuable accomplishments that black Canadians have made and continue to
make in Vaughan, Ontario and across Canada. Attendees also heard from guest
speakers Suzanne Craig, Integrity Commissioner for the City of Vaughan; York
Regional Police Chief Eric
Jolliffe; and Dr. Elizabeth Sinclair, York Region District School Board
Trustee, Ward 3 and 4, who spoke about the role of education in the black
community and the significance of public education and social justice. Guests
were treated to live music by steel pan performers, educational and handcrafted
displays and poetry readings.
This
event marks the culmination of month-long activities throughout the city, including
poetry performances by Nadine Williams at various Vaughan libraries, and a
Summer Company information session from the Vaughan Business Enterprise Centre
in partnership with TACCA.
Officially
recognized in December 1995 by the House of Commons, Black History Month is observed
every February. It is a celebration that unites communities, like Vaughan, and
honours men and women who have made lasting city-building – and nation-building
– contributions.
QUOTE
“As
Mayor of one of the most culturally rich and diverse cities in Canada, it gives
me immense pleasure to recognize, honour and join in marking the important
occasion of Black History Month. 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. Black History Month
provides an important opportunity to acknowledge the history, values and
heritage of the black community. Every day I am inspired by the people in
Vaughan – their passion for the community, commitment to building our city and
spirit of generosity. We are blessed to have citizens who dedicate their time and
talent to giving back.”
- Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua
QUICK FACTS
- Vaughan has a diverse community. In fact, nearly half of the city’s population was born abroad, and about 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.
- Founded in 2005, TACCA believes in building a strong community that is a positive contributor to Vaughan and Canada. It hosts and celebrates cultural events, provides scholarships to students of African and Caribbean descent and offers community programs for all ages.
- Founded in 2003, VACA celebrated its 15th anniversary in 2018. Throughout the years it has partnered with schools across communities to promote diversity, equity and inclusion practices that support the education, cultural identity and mental wellness of black students. Its focus is on offering community programs to youth.
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