Ontario to celebrate Black History Month
TORONTO, Jan. 31 /CNW/ - The McGuinty government is encouraging Ontarians to explore the legacy of African Canadians in Ontario during Black History Month in February, said Ontario's Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, Dr. Marie Bountrogianni.
"The contributions of black Ontarians continue to enrich our communities
and help us build a prosperous and diverse society," said Dr. Bountrogianni.
"The McGuinty government promotes and celebrates this diversity, ensuring
Ontario is a place where people from all backgrounds can build a future and
realize their dreams."
There are several excellent exhibits reflecting the history of African
Canadians in southern Ontario. These include the Buxton Historic Site and
Museum in North Buxton; the North American Black History Museum and the John F. Walls Historic Site & Underground Railroad Museum, in Amherstburg; Uncle Tom's Cabin in Dresden, and the St. Catharines Museum.
The Ontario Black Historic Society and the Archives of Ontario have also
created an Internet photo exhibit--the Alvin D. McCurdy Collection--featuring
documents, photographs, and interviews of black settlers in southern Ontario.
In addition, Highlighting Human Rights in Ontario offers a historical record
of human rights advances. Both can be viewed at www.archives.gov.on.ca
Black History Month was first officially proclaimed in Ontario in 1993.
It marked the 200th anniversary of the passage of legislation led by
Lieutenant-Governor John Graves Simcoe prohibiting the importation of slaves into Upper Canada - the first British territory to do so.
Dr. Bountrogianni will be speaking this evening, January 31st, at the
8th Annual Reverend John C. Holland Awards sponsored by the Black History Committee in Hamilton. The awards are presented annually to individuals who improve the quality of life both within the community and society at large.
This is one of the key events marking Black History month in Hamilton.
