Black History Month has officially kicked off in Chatham-Kent.
A flag raising at the Chatham-Kent Civic Centre Feb. 1 marked the launch in a joint collaboration between officials from the Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History, the Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society and Black Mecca Museum and the Buxton National Historic Site and Museum.
Officials say the aim of the month is to reflect on the past and recognize the achievements of African-Canadian community members who have helped shape Chatham-Kent and Canada.
A host of activities are on tap for Black History Month, including C-K’s inaugural Black Excellence Awards & Gala slated for Feb. 10. The black-tie event to be held at Retro Suites is sold out.
Michelle Robbins, curator at the Buxton National Historic Site and Museum, said the community support at the flag raising was outstanding.
“What an amazing turn out we had here today,” Robbins said in a media release. “For us at the sites, it’s an amazing feeling to have the support of the community behind us.”
C-K’s municipal co-ordinator for diversity, equity, inclusion and justice Rebecca Haskell-Thomas, said a great deal of significant Canadian history has been made right in Chatham-Kent.
“The history is important all year,” Haskell-Thomas said. “But Black History Month gives us a dedicated time to recognize the accomplishments of Black people and organizations in our own backyard, including advancing human rights for everyone.
“And we reflect on the legacy we’re leaving for future generations,” she said.
Mayor Darrin Canniff said Chatham-Kent is home to some of the most important Black historical sites in all of Canada, exemplifying the resilience, progress and the “vibrant Black historical culture that has shaped our community’s identity and continues to do so.
“This month, I encourage everyone to take the time to learn about our rich history, visit our Black historical sites and participate in our local Black history events,” Canniff said.
Throughout the month, Chatham-Kent Tourism is promoting activities celebrating Black history. To learn more, search “Black History” on the chatham-kent.ca website.
