As Canada enters Black History Month in 2024, the nation stands at the intersection of reflection, celebration, and advocacy. This annual observance provides a dedicated space to honor the rich heritage of Black Canadians, recognize their contributions, and engage in meaningful conversations about equity and inclusion. In the year 2024, Black History Month takes on renewed significance as Canadians embrace the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Black history, amplify Black voices, and work towards a more inclusive future.
Black History Month is a time for Canadians to reflect on the diverse cultural roots that shape the Black community in Canada. From the legacy of Black Canadians who have been foundational to the nation’s history to the vibrant contributions of recent immigrants, this month serves as a reminder of the multifaceted tapestry that is Black Canadian heritage.
The year 2024 encourages a closer examination of hidden narratives within Black history. Canadians are urged to explore lesser-known stories, individuals, and events that have shaped the Black experience in Canada. Unveiling these narratives contributes to a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of the nation’s history.
Black Canadians have made significant contributions to various fields, including arts and culture. During Black History Month, it is essential to celebrate and amplify the achievements of Black artists, musicians, writers, and performers. Events and exhibitions showcasing Black artistic excellence become focal points for recognition.
Black History Month is an opportune time to honor trailblazers who have broken barriers and paved the way for future generations in diverse sectors. From academia to business, politics to science, Canadians are encouraged to celebrate the achievements of Black trailblazers who have left an indelible mark on their respective fields.
In 2024, there is a heightened emphasis on providing platforms for Black voices to be heard. Events, forums, and discussions facilitate open conversations about the challenges faced by the Black community and the importance of creating spaces for expression. Digital platforms, community gatherings, and cultural institutions play crucial roles in amplifying these voices.
Black History Month extends beyond historical reflections to showcase contemporary narratives. Canadians are encouraged to engage with the stories of Black individuals making a difference today. Highlighting present-day achievements fosters a sense of pride and inspires future generations.
Black History Month catalyzes addressing systemic inequalities that persist in Canadian society. Advocacy initiatives focus on dismantling barriers to education, employment, and representation. Canadians are called to actively participate in efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable nation.
Educational institutions play a pivotal role in shaping perceptions and understanding. Black History Month prompts schools and universities to integrate comprehensive and diverse Black histories into curricula. This educational emphasis contributes to fostering cultural literacy and dismantling stereotypes.
Community engagement lies at the heart of Black History Month. Local events, festivals, and gatherings create opportunities for Canadians to connect, learn, and celebrate together. These community-centric initiatives strengthen bonds, foster understanding, and contribute to building a more interconnected society.
In 2024, collaborative initiatives involving government bodies, community organizations, and businesses underscore the collective responsibility to advance the cause of inclusivity. Partnerships and collaborations amplify the impact of Black History Month initiatives, creating lasting positive change.
As Black History Month unfolds in 2024, Canadians are reminded that the celebration and acknowledgment of Black history extend far beyond a single month. It is a continuous, collective commitment to recognizing the importance of diversity, embracing inclusivity, and working towards a future where every individual, regardless of their background, can thrive and contribute to the rich tapestry of Canada. The year 2024 stands as an opportunity for Canadians to not only reflect on the past but actively shape a more inclusive and equitable future.
PORT ALBERNI, B.C. – RCMP say the body of a second person has been found inside their vehicle after a road washed away amid pouring rain on the west coast of Vancouver Island.
Police say two vehicles went into the Sarita River when Bamfield Road washed out on Saturday as an atmospheric river hammered southern B.C.
The body of the other driver was found Sunday.
More coming.
The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.
The B.C. Greens say Sonia Furstenau will be staying on as party leader, despite losing her seat in the legislature in Saturday’s provincial election.
The party says in a statement that its two newly elected MLAs, Jeremy Valeriote and Rob Botterell, support Furstenau’s leadership as they “navigate the prospect of having the balance of power in the legislature.”
Neither the NDP led by Premier David Eby nor the B.C. Conservatives led by John Rustad secured a majority in the election, with two recounts set to take place from Oct. 26 to 28.
Eby says in a news conference that while the election outcome is uncertain, it’s “very likely” that the NDP would need the support of others to pass legislation.
He says he reached out to Furstenau on election night to congratulate her on the Greens’ showing.
But he says the Green party has told the NDP they are “not ready yet” for a conversation about a minority government deal.
The Conservatives went from taking less than two per cent of the vote in 2020 to being elected or leading in 45 ridings, two short of a majority and only one behind the NDP.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 22, 2024.
The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.
Toronto FC captain Jonathan Osorio is making a difference, 4,175 kilometres away from home.
The 32-year-old Canadian international midfielder, whose parents hail from Colombia, has been working with the Canadian Colombian Children’s Organization, a charity whose goal is to help disadvantaged youth in the South American country.
Osorio has worked behind the scenes, with no fanfare.
Until now, with his benevolence resulting in becoming Toronto FC’s nominee for the Audi Goals Drive Progress Impact Award, which honours an MLS player “who showed outstanding dedication to charitable efforts and serving the community” during the 2024 season.”
Other nominees include Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Sebastian Berhalter and CF Montreal goalkeeper Jonathan Sirois.
The winner will be announced in late November.
The Canadian Colombian Children’s Organization (CCCO) is run entirely by volunteers like Monica Figueredo and Claudia Soler. Founded in 1991, it received charitable status in 2005.
The charity currently has four projects on the go: two in Medellin and one each in Armenia and Barranquilla.
They include a school, a home for young girls whose parents are addicted to drugs, after-school and weekend programs for children in a disadvantaged neighbourhood, and nutrition and education help for underprivileged youth.
The organization heard about Osorio and was put in contact with him via an intermediary, which led to a lunch meeting. Osorio did his due diligence and soon got back to the charity with his decision.
“It was something that I wanted to be a part of right away,” said Osorio, whose lone regret is that he didn’t get involved sooner.
“I’m fortunate now that to help more now that I could have back then,” he added. “The timing actually worked out for everybody. For the last three years I have donated to their cause and we’ve built a couple of (football) fields in different cities over there in the schools.”
His father visited one of the sites in Armenia close to his hometown.
“He said it was amazing, the kids, how grateful they are to be able to play on any pitch, really,” said Osorio. “But to be playing on a new pitch, they’re just so grateful and so humble.
“It really makes it worth it being part of this organization.”
The collaboration has also made Osorio take stock.
“We’re very fortunate here in Canada, I think, for the most part. Kids get to go to school and have a roof over their head and things like that. In Colombia, it’s not really the same case. My father and his family grew up in tough conditions, so giving back is like giving back to my father.”
Osorio’s help has been a godsend to the charity.
“We were so surprised with how willing he was,” said Soler.
The TFC skipper has helped pay for a football field in Armenia as well as an ambitious sports complex under construction in Barranquilla.
“It’s been great for them,” Figueredo said of the pitch in Armenia. “Because when they go to school, now they have a proper place to train.”
Osorio has also sent videos encouraging the kids to stay active — as well as shipping soccer balls and signed jerseys their way.
“They know more about Jonathan than the other players in Colombia,” Figueredo said. “That’s the funny part. Even though he’s far away, they’ve connected with him.”
“They feel that they have a future, that they can do more,” she added. “Seeing that was really, really great.”
The kids also followed Osorio through the 2022 World Cup and this summer’s Copa America.
Back home, Osorio has also attended the charity’s annual golf tournament, helping raise funds.
A Toronto native, he has long donated four tickets for every TFC home game to the Hospital for Sick Children.
Vancouver’s Berhalter was nominated for his involvement in the Whitecaps’ partnership with B.C. Children’s Hospital while Montreal’s Sirois was chosen for his work with the Montreal Impact Foundation.
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This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 21, 2024.
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