By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Another Black history milestone is about to be made in Chatham-Kent.
On Feb. 10, 2024 the first-ever Black Excellence Awards & Gala will take place at Retro Suites in Chatham. The black-tie event will honour the outstanding achievements of those who have contributed to Black history and culture within the community.
The event is being co-chaired by well-known Black history advocates Shannon Prince, Doug Robbins and Michelle Robbins.
Details of the event, which dovetails with Black History Month, were unveiled at a media kickoff at Sons of Kent Dec. 15.
During the introduction, Doug Robbins described the critical role Chatham-Kent has played in Black history.
“Our community, Chatham-Kent, has been a very important spot in Black history,” Robbins said. “It’s made history. So, it’s only fitting that we make history by putting on an event like the long overdue Black Excellence Awards and Gala.
“And by gala, I mean gala,” Robbins added, stressing it will be an all-out red – or in this case –”black carpet” extravaganza.
The BEA is being held in collaboration with Buxton’s Next Generation and Buxton National Historic Site & Museum.
Michelle Robbins, curator of the Buxton National Historical Site & Museum, said the event provides an opportunity to commemorate Black culture and community advocates.
“It’s a way to celebrate how far we have come and the now whilst elevating the future generations,” she explained.
Of behalf of C-K council, Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew, commended the committee for their efforts for making the awards happen.
“Thank you for doing this work and continuing to create events that recognize our history, our Black history and the diversity in our community,” Crew said, adding the event is “making history.”
Awards will be given out in seven categories, including Female of the Year; Male of the Year; Youth of the Year, Agriculturist of the Year; Entrepreneur of the Year and Citizen of the Year. Nominations will open from Dec. 18 to Jan. 10. The above categories will be voted upon by the public online on a as yet-to-be-announced website. The window for voting will open Jan. 16 and run until Feb. 1.
Another category in line for an award is Trailblazer of the Year. However, the trailblazer award won’t be part of the public nomination and voting process.
For more information on the event, visit the Black Excellence Awards and Gala on Facebook or Instagram.
Tickets for the event are $100 each and will be on sale starting Jan. 1.
