Following the raising of the Pan African flag by Mayor Patrick Brown and council members early Feb. 1, Brampton City Hall opened its doors to the community for its first annual event of the month.
“Today we honour the many achievements and contributions of the black community,” Brown said. “Brampton is home to more than 85,000 residents who identify as Black, in a thriving community that work and live in our city, making impactful changes, paving the way for generations to come.”
This year, Black Resistance is the chosen theme to explore how the community has resisted its ongoing and historic oppression in Canada.
The Canadian Multicultural Inventors Museum set up a booth for attendees to look back on Black Canadian history and its ongoing impact on today’s society.
Brampton residents are invited to City Hall every February to recognize the numerous contributions made by the Black community in Canada since the designated month became official in December 1995.
One of the main speakers at the event was Myarna Adams, president and founder of Brampton Young at Heart.
Guests watching speaker at city hall Feb. 1. Photo credit: Jeanine Tajeddine
“One of the principal values is showcasing our ability to be resilient, to try when the odds have not been in our favour,” Adams said. “Yet, we have managed to not only survive, but within ourselves have resulted in our ability to become great intellectuals, activists, artists, and be able to build thriving communities.”
Brown honoured six trailblazers with awards for their impact on the community.
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown giving award at city hall Feb. 1. Photo credit: Jeanine Tajeddine
Host and Nigerian personality Morris Berry kept the crowd engaged and laughing the entire night.
Canadian singer and Juno award winner, Liberty Silver, took the stage next, followed by a spoken word poem by Dwyane Morgan and the drummings of the Adinkrafarm Ensemble.
Adinkrafarm Ensemble performing on stage with djembes at city hall Feb. 1. Photo credit: Jeanine Tajeddine
The Black Makers Market was open to guests to support local Black-owned businesses during the event.
Vendor at Black Makers Market showing products at city hall Feb. 1. Photo credit: Jeanine Tajeddine
Vendors included Ayabashub, Château Neuf, Design Meets Desire, Di Vine Beauty, Naturalbychen, Nayomi & Josh, Afrikan Fashion, Rosemarie Sutherland Originals, Shea Essence Wholesome Food for Skin, and Sugar Plum Scrubs.
Authentic Afro-Caribbean food vendors Naija Jollof and Pepper On The Side were also present at City Hall for the last hour of the event. Dishes available included fufu, jollof rice, jerk chicken, and much more.
Food vendor and event attendees at city hall Feb. 1. Photo credit: Jeanine Tajeddine
Although this month commemorates the oppressive history faced by the community, it should be acknowledged throughout the year.
“I don’t believe in Black History Month. I’m not black only this month,” Adams said. “Black history should be celebrated every day.”