BRAMPTON, ON (February 1, 2021) – During the month of February, the City of Brampton recognizes Black History Month to celebrate the countless cultural, economic and compassionate contributions that Brampton’s Black community makes to the city, province and country.

To recognize individuals in the community who are advocates, champions and innovators, people can nominate residents for the Mayor Patrick Brown’s Making Black History Awards. For more information visit www.brampton.ca/BHM2021.

Due to COVID-19, activities and events will be hosted online this year. Programming includes:
• Sun Life Financial presents the Virtual Performance Series, a weekly performance series by local Black artists
• Black Makers Market featuring Black-owned businesses
• Wellness hour hosted by local yoga instructor Matthew Bonas
• Best and Black in Brampton Food Tour hosted by Azalea Hart
• Panel discussion curated by Brampton’s Jones & Jones Productions, on topics such as staying creative during the pandemic, navigating your career, Black Lives Matter and strong Black leadership                                                           

For more information on all activities and events happening, visit www.brampton.ca/BHM2021.

Black Political Empowerment Conference

This Black Political Empowerment Conference on February 9 and 10 will present informative and inspiring conversations with Black political leaders and allies. The conversations will focus on the critical importance of building Black political capital as a means of working towards the elimination of systemic racism, social, educational and corporate inequality but most importantly, inspire individuals, families and youth to participate in the arena of politics. Click here to register. 

Black Youth Leadership Conference

Young people in our city have critical challenges to overcome and much work to do in order to prepare for success. This event, on February 26 from 9 am to 3:30 pm, is an opportunity to give young people a platform to discuss and share their challenges, concerns and dreams. The conference will focus on solutions to some of their challenges and engage in dialogue to help find ways to support their success. In addition to giving young people the platform to speak, the conference will hear from professionals and motivational speakers. This conference is in outreach to youth and school boards. For more information on participation, please contact economicantiblackracism@brampton.ca.
 

Quotes

“Brampton’s Black community has done so much to make this country the culturally diverse, compassionate and prosperous nation it is today. We are proud to offer a month-long calendar of events that acknowledge and celebrate Black History Month. By taking part in the important conversations and activities planned, we work to highlight important contributions of Black community members in our community, building a more inclusive city.”
- Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton

“The Black African and Caribbean communities throughout our City contribute so much to Brampton’s vibrant cultural mosaic and our local economy. As the first Black woman elected to Brampton City Council, I am proud to join Council colleagues and staff in leading the way to acknowledge Black History Month in meaningful ways. Together, we recognize the many contributions of community members to Brampton’s story, past and present, that pave the way for the next generation of community leaders.”
- Charmaine Williams, City Councillor, Wards 7 & 8, City of Brampton

“Brampton is a mosaic, and by acknowledging and celebrating Black History Month we are recognizing the city’s diversity. Black history is world history. It’s a powerful and rich history rooted in achievement, innovation, culture, and humanity. This month, we take time to reflect and be inspired by the stories, the legacies of those who’ve come before us – hoping that will provide a greater sense of unity, respect, and commitment to do our part in helping to build a more equal, fair, and inclusive country.”
- Gwyneth Chapman, Senior Advisor Economic Empowerment and Anti-Black Racism Unit, City of Brampton

“This year’s Black History Month events proudly recognize and celebrate Brampton’s Black community, and its significant contribution to our city’s cultural mosaic. The virtual events and activities planned throughout the month are an opportunity to engage with diverse groups across the city, support cultural events, and learn more about our vibrant Black community. We invite everyone to take part in the wide range of events planned throughout the month.”
- David Barrick, Chief Administrative Officer, City of Brampton

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