5th Annual Black History Month Flag Raising – Hosted by ABC & The Town of Aurora

Congratulations to Phiona Durrant and the Aurora Black Community (ABC) team on the successful 5th annual Black History Month Flag Raising! ??

This powerful event brought together leaders and community members to honour the contributions of Black Canadians while reaffirming our shared commitment to equity, inclusion, and progress.

It was inspiring to hear from all levels of government, including Mayor Tom Mrakas, Member of Parliament Leah Taylor Roy and Member of Provincial Parliament Michael Parsa, as well as the York Region Police (YRP) Deputy Chief Kevin McCloskey and Central York Fire Services (CYFS) Rocco Volpe. At YRAACC, we proudly stand alongside ABC and support this significant initiative. Let us continue to foster a stronger, more inclusive, and empowered community!

?? Why This Event Matters

The ceremonial raising of the Black History Month flag is more than just a moment. It is a statement of solidarity, a tribute to Black excellence, and a call to continue the work of justice and inclusion. This event symbolizes our unwavering commitment to honouring the history, achievements, and contributions of Black Canadians in Aurora and beyond. We celebrated unity, resilience, and the diversity that enriches our community.

? The evening featured:

? Inspiring words from leaders and community members.

? Community achievements were celebrated, showcasing Black excellence.

? Unity, culture, and resilience were at the heart of the event.

???? Honoring Black Excellence

The evening honoured outstanding organizations, including the Aurora Black Caucus, and celebrated the achievements of Milton Hart, the first Black person inducted into the Aurora Sports Hall of Fame! (https://tinyurl.com/yps329c6).

?? Powerful Messages from Presenters:

We were moved by the profound messages shared by the presenters: Bobbie Marshall, Javed Khan-Ashof, Jerisha Grant-Hall, Dwayne Morgan, and Leticia Osei.

Their words reminded us of the importance of:

• The raising of the Pan-African flag symbolizes pride, liberation, and solidarity.
• Recognition of past sacrifices and struggles for current rights and freedoms.
• Milestone achievement is celebrated with a focus on unity, culture, and community building.
• Marcus Garvey's significant role in the Black Liberation Movement and his pivotal contribution to the fight for racial equality.
• Resilience, courage, and leadership are crucial for this ongoing campaign for equality and an equitable society.
• Focus on the inherent inner light and potential within each individual.
• Individuals need to check in on their neighbours and help where needed.
• Persistence is key, even amidst hate and discrimination.
• Self-knowledge is crucial for personal growth and achieving one's potential.
• Active participation in life is essential to fulfilling one's destiny.

?? Call to Action:

Let us continue celebrating, educating, and elevating Black history in February and every day. This moment is a time to honour the past, engage in the present, and shape a future where equity and justice thrive.

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#ABC #BHM #Aurora #MP #MPP #YRP #CYFS #TDReadyCommitment #DEI #Woke #BlackHistoryWorldHistory

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