On January 25 at West Edmonton Mall, various community leaders added their voices to the Black Journey, at the launch of Black History Month in Edmonton, organized by the National Black Coalition (NBCC) Edmonton Chapter.
MLA David Shepherd was courageous to mention the ongoing racial challenges of the Edmonton Catholic School Board with respect to the heavy-handed treatment of the 11 years old Black boy for wearing a Durag, and her mom for protesting – The Durag Racial Controversy.
“…it’s important to remember where we’ve come from, but it’s important to recognise that we still have some challenges. We’ve seen this past year some of the systemic challenges still exist for young people in our schools or for parents…that is work that we will continue to do together…continue to celebrate and make space for the Black communities to continue to celebrate and be who they are…,” MLA David Shepherd, champion of the Proclamation of Black History Month in Alberta.
The other speakers did a good job to connect Black History Month celebration to people on the street, by connecting Black History to stories and current events around them, not just an African American or Alberta Black Pioneers issue, but every ebony Black person, their friends, supporters, and lovers of humanity, peace, and justice.
“…The other important reflections beyond diversity and the need to continue to promote it and to call out racism and discrimination as we continue to see it in our community, workplaces, and institutions is to also celebrate the contributions of people of African and Caribbean descent to building our country, to building our province, and to building our city…,” Don Iveson, Mayor of Edmonton.
“……For me being able to make sure that we have the opportunity to give thanks to those who came before us, who helped build an incredible province that we all now love and enjoy is the right thing, actually important, one that we must continue to do, to celebrate…without these people, obviously many of us who now have the opportunity to serve will not be hear…,” Minister Kaycee Madu.
“…We are building an inclusive community and a safe Edmonton…,” Deputy Edmonton Police Darren Derko.
Have you attended any Black History Month event so far?
Well you know what, no worries, the most exciting is now coming up this weekend. There is something for everyone, invite family and friends and come chill out the weekend in the company of nice community members, colleagues, neighbours, new family, and new friends.
This Saturday is the long awaited Black History Month Gospel Concert at the Jubilee Auditorium.
For tickets to watch the best of the best angelic choirs from across the city and much more, please click here to purchase your tickets at Ticket Master http://bit.ly/2tQxWIA
