Statement from Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter to Honour February 2022 as Black History Month in Oshawa
While we recognize the contributions of Black communities in Oshawa all year round, Black History Month provides a special time for reflection and celebration. I encourage everyone to take some time this month to learn more about the stories of Black Canadians, both past and present, to understand and recognize their contributions to our country, province and city.
While it is a time of celebration, it is also a time to recognize that many members of Black communities experience racism and barriers to inclusion that take the forms of violence, oppression and harassment. The City of Oshawa is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive city that supports all community members. To honour this commitment, the City has taken action by launching anti-racism training for City Council and staff, working with the Community Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee to obtain input on initiatives, developing a Diversity and Inclusion Lens and Handbook, and more.
We know our work is just the beginning as many members of Black communities continue to experience racism and barriers to inclusion. That is why we continue to advance anti-racism initiatives, listening to our community members, and doing more to support and honour the contributions of our Black residents and businesses. This year, the City will complete construction of the Dr. Blake Parkette to commemorate the community building work of an influential Black Oshawa resident – Dr. B. George Blake.
To celebrate Black History Month, we are once again pleased to showcase Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs in Oshawa. Through the #OshawaLovesLocal campaign, we are highlighting a number of Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs that are an important part of Oshawa’s community and economy.
I look forward to continuing to celebrate the diverse Black cultures and community members in Oshawa.