It is a time to commemorate, honour, educate and learn.
The Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury hosted a flag raising Feb. 9 in recognition of Black History Month. The event, held outside the Bradford courthouse, included a proclamation and guest speakers.
“Today, we celebrate our journey of how far we have come while never forgetting our ancestors and the courageous men and women who fought for justice and equality,” Ward 1 Coun. Cheraldean Duhaney said. “Their sacrifices paved the way for us, and it is our responsibility to continue their legacy. Yes, challenges will come. Some will be difficult, but we will overcome them.”
In the words of Jean Augustine, the first Black woman elected to Canada’s Parliament, Duhaney said, “Black history is Canadian history."
"If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you must keep moving forward,” Duhaney said, paraphrasing Martin Luther King Jr.
“So let’s keep breaking barriers,” she said. “Let’s shatter glass ceilings. And most importantly, let’s remember: You belong."
The town says Black History Month is a time to learn about the stories and important contributions of Black Canadians to the settlement, growth and development of Simcoe County, as well as the diversity of Black communities across the country.
For a list of upcoming events in Simcoe County related to Black History Month, click here.