Black History Month is underway in Chatham-Kent, providing time to celebrate the many achievements of Black Canadians.
The month kicked off with a flag-raising ceremony at the Civic Centre on Friday afternoon. Over the weekend, the Black Youth Expo was also held at the WISH Centre, along with An Evening with Shelton Brooks, a North Buxton native, at the Kiwanis Theatre.
While Black History Month dates back 100 years, Doug Robbins, executive director and curator of the CK Black Historical Society and Black Mecca Museum, said it remains an important time for reflection and commemoration.
“It’s a very important thing to do because Black History Month delineates the struggle, [and] the culture, it celebrates the people. It brings it all together for us,” he said. “We have made strides. People have learned about diversity, equity and inclusion, which is important… We in Canada, we still honour that and respect it.”
Robbins noted that there have been many strides forward, however, racism and prejudice still permeate society.
“When language is used that is harmful or hurtful or shameful, we need to educate the public. We need to stop them and say that is not a human way to speak to people,” he said.
Chatham-Kent residents can expect to see even more events held throughout the month, including a book launch and signing for “In the Light of Dawn” by Marie Carter at the Josiah Henson Museum of African Canadian History on February 8.
The Josiah Henson Museum will also provide a 60-minute live tour on February 14 at 1 p.m.
A candlelit concert entitled Stand By Me: A Century of Black Music and Its Influence will take place on February 15 at St. Andrews Church.
Then on February 22, a Soul Food Dinner and Dance will be held at the WISH Centre.
Black History Month in Chatham-Kent will culminate on March 1 with the Black Excellence Awards and Gala at Retro Suites.
