tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89354801762896525582024-03-19T00:08:12.268-07:00Angles Coveredanglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.comBlogger466125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-56690741445288184062024-03-10T07:22:00.000-07:002024-03-10T07:22:36.731-07:00Jay Williams Memorial Fund Established to Honour His Legacy<p> <span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidGIO-Ni2aOhVvHCqbeBPWe85smhhZQTsztCRR_meVQcl-SbflAb0hoHmU5X6uh-zLHD4L684oKvfybF-avV5E2TNZ-qTTGM8XYIKigla1dHHK7bZzlSd7gK70RgqJpaNG5RbFBB0CZArPQL0fbtMdqs2SIg48G66ejk75q9tvqu3WiUwBVzWPj4QyVCK3/s457/Jay%20Williams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="457" height="626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidGIO-Ni2aOhVvHCqbeBPWe85smhhZQTsztCRR_meVQcl-SbflAb0hoHmU5X6uh-zLHD4L684oKvfybF-avV5E2TNZ-qTTGM8XYIKigla1dHHK7bZzlSd7gK70RgqJpaNG5RbFBB0CZArPQL0fbtMdqs2SIg48G66ejk75q9tvqu3WiUwBVzWPj4QyVCK3/w640-h626/Jay%20Williams.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Jay Williams, educator, speaker and education consultant</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In the aftermath of the sudden death of educator, speaker, and education consultant Jay Williams, 40, many of his friends and colleagues have spoken about continuing his legacy.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">To make that possible, his family has established the Jay Williams Memorial Fund to honour the legacy of the gregarious teacher, mentor and coach who died in the wee hours of February 29.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Fund at </span><span style="background: white; border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 16.866667px; padding: 0cm;"><a href="https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/m/99794" style="color: #96607d;">https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/m/99794</a></span><span style="background: white; color: #242424; font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 16.866667px;"> (</span><a href="https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/m/99794" style="color: #96607d;" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 16.866667px; padding: 0cm;">https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/m/99794</span></a><span style="background: white; color: #242424; font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 16.866667px;">)</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Your gift will continue the work Jay began, reaching students and those who teach and mentor them. Thank you for honouring Jay’s life with your generosity,” said the family. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In an announcement of the funeral details, his mother, Paulette Senior — who was appointed to the Senate of Canada in December and sworn in during the first week of February — and the entire family thanked everyone for the messages of “condolences and outpouring of support as we navigate our heartbreak and our way through life without him.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The viewing and visitation will be on Friday, March 15, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at McEachnie Funeral Home, 28 Old Kingston Road in Ajax, Ontario. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 16 at 10:45 a.m. at Apostolic Pentecostal Church, 1920 Notion Road in Pickering, Ontario. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="font8" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="color11"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">Williams was an educator for 14 years at the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) and was the coordinator of equity as well as held portfolios in equity, anti-racism, anti-oppression, the Black Student Success and Excellence initiative at the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement and Model Schools for Inner Cities. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="font8" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="color11"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Williams had a Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education and Promotion from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Education from Ontario Tech University. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Jay was driven by a passion to use education as a platform to make lasting impact. Inspired by his commitment to equity, he helped students achieve success despite daunting circumstances, and an education system and teaching methods that limited their ability to reach their full potential.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Jay inspired students and colleagues with his energy, authenticity, and belief that as we know better, we must become better. As a consultant, speaker, and author he advocated for policy changes within the education system that were essential for students to realize their goals,” noted his family.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">They said his aim was to “connect with people to facilitate the process of informing and (re)educating in all environments, not just educational settings.” He believed in “the importance of being a role model to engage, empower, motivate, and inspire not only students and educators but society as a whole.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Arun Chetram, a friend of Williams since elementary school, said, “JJ was my first best friend growing up at the ripe young age of 5 years old. We made an immediate connection that remained in place until his tragic last day. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“JJ was the glue of our community, the connective tissue that brought various circles of the community together and it truly was one of his superpowers, bringing his community and people together. To know who JJ was is to also know that all the success and recognition he obtained, was not by fluke, but from his tireless work ethic to always do better and to uplift those around him and most importantly the next generation. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“He tackled injustices and social issues head on, never forgetting where he came from but also ensuring he remained true to self. His loss is a void that will never be replaced. His legacy lives on through his family, his friends, and the countless number of students that he influenced. I will forever miss him. His energy, his infectious smile and aura was undeniable because he truly cared about and loved those close to him immensely. While time is the only healer, it will be extremely difficult to make sense of him being taken away from us too soon. For all of the amazing things he set out to accomplish and the everlasting impact he had on so many, it's hard to not think of what was to be, because the truth is, he was only getting started. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I love you my brother and I'll ensure I do my part to keep your legacy going,” said Chetram.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Storyteller, author and managing director of Blackhurst Cultural Centre, Itah Sadu, recalled how excited Williams was when he and his mom invited her to tell stories at his school. “He was a primary grade student, I was just blossoming in my career, and boy, that day he made me feel like a superstar as he sat straight back, eyes filled with excitement and his face glowing with all the potential in the world.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The co-owner of A Different Booklist said she had several opportunities to work with the dynamic educator and witness his progress. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“In January, I danced with him and several educators at a “wind down Friday” at the Blackhurst Cultural Centre. It was joyous. I will always remember how he wrapped me up as an Auntie in the warmest embrace. Thanks to his mom and family for sharing this brilliant young man and gift with us,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Karen Murray, system superintendent, equity, anti-racism, anti-oppression for the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement at the TDSB, said Williams was loved. “By being his authentic self, he made a difference in the lives of students, families, and staff for generations to come.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Abhi Arulanantham, principal of Edgewood Public School, said Williams was someone “whose mere presence made you pause, and when he spoke, you just knew that he was someone committed to doing what he could to make the world a better place for others, especially young Black folks.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“He and I spoke just a few days before he passed, and our conversation was about how difficult it is to carry the burden of doing equity work in a system that is not set up for racialized folks. We ended the conversation with him saying he was going to come by my school in a few days so that he could ground himself with students and remind himself of why he does the work he does despite all the obstacles. This is how I will remember him - as someone who would completely put himself out there in a harsh world full of obstacles, just so that he could ensure that our students - our future - are better. Jay was special,” she said.</span><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">Lindsey Marshall, coordinator, Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement (Acting), said Williams’s authentic commitment to Black student success and excellence was reflected in the way he lived and engaged in his work both in and out of the classroom. “I know Jay's impact and legacy will continue to shape the fabric of education for generations to come.”</span><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He was the only child for his mother and leaves behind his father Ron Williams and five siblings.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-57559625562016993522024-03-09T16:05:00.000-08:002024-03-09T16:05:29.604-08:00Centenarian Lillie Johnson Celebrated for Her Work at Order of Canada Investiture During Black History Month<p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong</span></p><p><br /></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4XTnYtjOnT-VUgPrAiJOGd5i6i-XRs5d6wqR_J5nazwBYPmcPVyeyZY7tvDu9RwFYL93U7D0gmLVYjoDQoiwWKRqfO_RFWuVmdQ0xOwPwi7WIfQ-4B8WAIpv31Dco1PiS7kIvYh0KXuznkQn40QxRvIF-ounqHEaVkuVuivGiuQc7JYRU3Ap97J5kKSEf/s6720/Lillie%20Johnson%20portrait%20w%20medals%20at%20Order%20of%20Canada%20investiture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6720" data-original-width="4480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4XTnYtjOnT-VUgPrAiJOGd5i6i-XRs5d6wqR_J5nazwBYPmcPVyeyZY7tvDu9RwFYL93U7D0gmLVYjoDQoiwWKRqfO_RFWuVmdQ0xOwPwi7WIfQ-4B8WAIpv31Dco1PiS7kIvYh0KXuznkQn40QxRvIF-ounqHEaVkuVuivGiuQc7JYRU3Ap97J5kKSEf/w426-h640/Lillie%20Johnson%20portrait%20w%20medals%20at%20Order%20of%20Canada%20investiture.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Lillie Johnson at the Order of Canada investiture</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Lillie Johnson’s relatives are very proud of their “Aunt Lillie” or “Aunt Cissy” as they call her. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Speaking on their behalf at the investiture of the Order of Canada at Extendicare Rouge Valley in Scarborough on February 27, her nephew-in-law, Legiston Ferron, said “Every family should have a Lillie Johnson for her tenacity, her strong opinions — and she’s usually right — and her softer sense of true caring, good humour, and her ability to mentor young people and to have fun at the appropriate time.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He said the family and people of Cornwall Mountain in Westmoreland, Jamaica, were proud of the centenarian who will mark her 102<sup>nd</sup> birthday on March 16, 2024. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“She’s very special not only to us, but also to the people and organizations she has touched over the years. Aunt Lillie, you have made them all better with your infectious drive and dedication to task. Your passion, especially for the Sickle Cell Association of Ontario, is legendary and deeply appreciated. You’ve done more in your lifetime than many others could ever dream of doing and you are one of the most amazing women that I’ve ever known. Congratulations on your well-deserved recognition as an Order of Canada recipient.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Referencing the Irish playwright and critic George Bernard Shaw’s famous quote — 'Some men see things as they are and say why, I dream things that never were and say, why not' — Ferron said, “Lillie Johnson dreamt of things that never were and asked why not.” Also present was Johnson’s niece, Verna Robinson.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">His remarks concluded the presentation of the Order of Canada insignia by Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Johnson was among 78 new appointments to the Order announced by Governor General Mary Simon in late December 2023.</span><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 20.700001px;"> </span><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Through their exemplary commitment, they inspire and challenge us to join them in making Canada a better country, said the announcement.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Reading the citation to accompany the presentation of the insignia, Dr. Jim Lai, the aide-de camp of the lieutenant governor, noted that investitures into the Order of Canada usually take place at Rideau Hall in Ottawa. However, at the request of the governor general this investiture was happening in Scarborough.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> “Nurse and educator, Lillie Johnson, is a dedicated public health advocate. Founder of the Sickle Cell Association of Ontario, she led the organization for four decades encouraging greater understanding of the disease at the public and academic levels, and successfully lobbying for its inclusion in newborn screening in Ontario. She has also been involved in the development of specialized organizations to further address the health needs of the Black community.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“By command of the Right Honourable Mary May Simon, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, Lillie Johnson of Scarborough is hereby invested as a Member of the Order of Canada,” he said, which was followed by applause from all those gathered for the occasion including some of the residents, staff and administration personnel.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYXDczWnwR33hj6TyqDtVxtoiweEMRFxjlmYQLdVRPyfHsxAv8_7SPnN1ZEbtcOtEZn2bj3PWSgy6DS3rbszbpSF7Xo9WvoDrYJVV_O9L9cFEu-8ii3hqvkHyZDJIAw1Ahm5alriyFhBkjtnm2QW2vf9KhYkTUfqjupsPsv610AZx16WiLy-xb0APNxBGn/s4032/Lieutenant%20Governor%20Edith%20Dumont%20&%20Lillie%20Johnson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYXDczWnwR33hj6TyqDtVxtoiweEMRFxjlmYQLdVRPyfHsxAv8_7SPnN1ZEbtcOtEZn2bj3PWSgy6DS3rbszbpSF7Xo9WvoDrYJVV_O9L9cFEu-8ii3hqvkHyZDJIAw1Ahm5alriyFhBkjtnm2QW2vf9KhYkTUfqjupsPsv610AZx16WiLy-xb0APNxBGn/w480-h640/Lieutenant%20Governor%20Edith%20Dumont%20&%20Lillie%20Johnson.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lillie Johnson with Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Johnson was born on March 16, 1922, in St. Ann, Jamaica, to parents who were both teachers. She was one of ten children and after graduating from Wolmer’s High School, she attended Shortwood Teachers College, taught at various schools in the 1940s before leaving for Edinburg, Scotland to become a nurse in the 1950s, and then went to England where she studied midwifery and worked in Oxfordshire. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Johnson returned to Jamaica and worked at the University College of the West Indies for a few years before leaving to work as a nurse at Beth Israel Hospital in New Jersey. In 1960, she migrated to Canada to work for the Canadian Red Cross, then at St. Joseph’s Hospital and subsequently the Hospital for Sick Children. She was the first Black director of public health in Canada — between 1982 and 1988, she was the director of public health for Leeds-Grenville & Lanark District in Eastern Ontario.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Elaine Thompson, who shares Johnson’s power of attorney with veteran social justice advocate Beverly Johnson, said she has known her for many years, from being her Mary Kay customer to attending her health briefings for CUSO, the international development agency for Canada, and being a board member of the Sickle Cell Association of Ontario (SCAO), which Lillie Johnson founded in 1981.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Thompson said she nominated Johnson for the Order of Ontario which she received in 2010. In 2014, Johnson’s memoir, “My Dream,” was published as a Canada 150 series publication.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“The most important lesson I have learned in life is how much I have been influenced by family and home environment: the sincerity, the honesty and the love for people regardless of colour, race or creed. That has had a great influence on the work that I have done,” writes Johnson in “My Dream.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Dr. Michael Guerriere, the president and chief executive officer of Extendicare, said they were extremely proud to have Johnson as one of their residents and congratulated her on the appointment and expressed how honoured they felt that she was being invested into the Order during Black History Month. He noted that her passion and pursuit of improving health care has changed countless lives.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Among those in attendance at the investiture were Dr. Christopher Morgan, founder of the Black Health Alliance, and Ulysse Guerrier, president of the Sickle Cell Association of Ontario.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“At some point in time she had a burning desire to help those people in a particular community that many people didn’t recognize were invisible, unaware, and were not getting the type of treatment that they deserve, and that was the sickle cell community,” said Dr. Morgan, noting that Johnson, with Beverly Johnson and others decided to establish the SCAO. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Lillie has been a pioneer, tireless in her efforts,” he said, noting that Johnson’s love of people kept her going and she encouraged people to believe in themselves.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWeN3RTjY3MS52JNEjt2ZoysA7NsLY1isCHPEfJd9aE-L_ilegHaeZgnW9dHmB3o5tmiT_pSaov0Qwn78XSzt8asVBLcI6xOU-ygFtqZvt9feY5byQ6IQpIcG6aEZ9XA1T6WxQmB3bggh-kxRVkqXgo_GWEUOyz01_kLHwnmyiQ6ALKfT-VnasrOMyE-qF/s4032/Group%20pic%20with%20Lillie%20Johnson%20at%20Investiture%20on%20February%2027,%202024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWeN3RTjY3MS52JNEjt2ZoysA7NsLY1isCHPEfJd9aE-L_ilegHaeZgnW9dHmB3o5tmiT_pSaov0Qwn78XSzt8asVBLcI6xOU-ygFtqZvt9feY5byQ6IQpIcG6aEZ9XA1T6WxQmB3bggh-kxRVkqXgo_GWEUOyz01_kLHwnmyiQ6ALKfT-VnasrOMyE-qF/w480-h640/Group%20pic%20with%20Lillie%20Johnson%20at%20Investiture%20on%20February%2027,%202024.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Left to right: Michael Guerriere, President & CEO, Extendicare; Legiston Ferron; Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario; Rev. Amirold Lazard, Church of the Nativity, Malvern; Beverly Johnson, Elaine Thompson and Dr. Christopher Morgan with Lillie Johnson</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Guerrier said he met Johnson in 1998 when he moved back to Toronto from Montreal where he was involved in a sickle cell organization.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He said he told her that the reason he came to the SCAO was to find out what the organization could do for him. “She paused for a moment, she looked at me and then she said, ‘Instead of you asking what the association can do for you, why don’t you ask yourself what you can do for the organization?’ After she told me that, I’m like, what! like I need help, I’m coming to you and this is what you tell, so I was upset.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">After a few months, he attended a brunch with his brother at her invitation where he met other people with sickle cell. Since 2000, Guerrier became more involved and is now the president.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Johnson’s spiritual leader, Reverend Amirold Lazard of the Church of the Nativity, Malvern, blessed the ceremony.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRM67RocpnexBCk1fhv3pkN2lGkP0mxwtrWnHYWDi85EAhrP_HA22h2SXT0pBGX7OiaY6R08nWS4cqTssPtADxxXC-aQLUu9sv7TSZqCYrfoXTnyoyjIz5U5ycjcbFs0sYb4ebDNKRmX1R1HYzUVBzd_xHMxUF1-qGFnAvlDWf1RulenwCgTz6O1NDc4L/s6720/Neil%20cutting%20cake%20with%20Lillie%20Johnson1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4480" data-original-width="6720" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRM67RocpnexBCk1fhv3pkN2lGkP0mxwtrWnHYWDi85EAhrP_HA22h2SXT0pBGX7OiaY6R08nWS4cqTssPtADxxXC-aQLUu9sv7TSZqCYrfoXTnyoyjIz5U5ycjcbFs0sYb4ebDNKRmX1R1HYzUVBzd_xHMxUF1-qGFnAvlDWf1RulenwCgTz6O1NDc4L/w640-h426/Neil%20cutting%20cake%20with%20Lillie%20Johnson1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Elaine Thompson, Lillie Johnson and Neil Armstrong</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoToqW3HoG4kN4Q7-JPD1tvQrwtOktpw1czqOqrnVLO7jjXx9TPpw3TVziyF50s6MsTNdTTT68Hax6JXeVTEjAcSFRnJzmou13PNdMbBGSF-b-WbN7gHqUyAluNkr5GJWz87PRfDodPGJT8jr35OCnXEhfmuPH2H7-aJCsYUhDFUevmgfmK2VnY7quQqJd/s4032/Lillie%20Johnson%20in%20conversation%20with%20Elaine%20Thompson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoToqW3HoG4kN4Q7-JPD1tvQrwtOktpw1czqOqrnVLO7jjXx9TPpw3TVziyF50s6MsTNdTTT68Hax6JXeVTEjAcSFRnJzmou13PNdMbBGSF-b-WbN7gHqUyAluNkr5GJWz87PRfDodPGJT8jr35OCnXEhfmuPH2H7-aJCsYUhDFUevmgfmK2VnY7quQqJd/w480-h640/Lillie%20Johnson%20in%20conversation%20with%20Elaine%20Thompson.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elaine Thompson in conversation with Lillie Johnson with in the background, left to right: Ulysse Guerrier, president of the Sickle Cell Association of Ontario; Dr. Christopher Morgan, founder of the Black Health Alliance; and Legiston Ferron, Johnson's nephew-in-law</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">A reception was held in an adjoining room where a cake with a congratulatory message was complemented by sandwiches, sandwich wraps, tea, and bottles of water. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-49422267462134954712024-03-03T07:07:00.000-08:002024-03-03T07:07:50.047-08:00KasheDance Boosted by Major Funding from Canadian Government<p><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlWAGRQLSn-p1o-9kx4WBFgmcC8z0vZGY8WOoFfcuaKDZK99TS0ctzju9SotG1-VWew7y77KL3W2B9bzZlHsJy024oD13II5-zoMSs_fYENH2nD3rrjBtYqqj0ah__DpsARO3p-fq2MUl59eLrVSb97Rg79NtsHuI2WB1Ir-UvKImoWowqpjvWcY_lUxGo/s4000/Kevin%20Ormsby%20Jillia%20Cato%20and%20Ministers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="1868" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlWAGRQLSn-p1o-9kx4WBFgmcC8z0vZGY8WOoFfcuaKDZK99TS0ctzju9SotG1-VWew7y77KL3W2B9bzZlHsJy024oD13II5-zoMSs_fYENH2nD3rrjBtYqqj0ah__DpsARO3p-fq2MUl59eLrVSb97Rg79NtsHuI2WB1Ir-UvKImoWowqpjvWcY_lUxGo/w298-h638/Kevin%20Ormsby%20Jillia%20Cato%20and%20Ministers.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Left to right: Jill Cato, Assistant Artistic Director of KasheDance; Marci Ian, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth and Member of Parliament (Toronto Centre); Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage; and Kevin Ormsby, Founder and Artistic Director of KasheDance<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">A professional Afro Contemporary dance company in Toronto founded by Jamaican Canadian Kevin Ormsby has just received major funding from the Government of Canada.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">KasheDance, which was established in 2009 and will celebrate its 15<sup>th</sup> anniversary with the production, Retrospek, in April, offers a professional dance training program that takes dancers’ careers to the next level while addressing systemic barriers in the performing arts industry.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">This week, Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage, and Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, and Member of Parliament (Toronto Centre), announced a $200,000 investment to support KasheDance’s training program. They toured the facility and met with staff who showed off their talent and ingenuity.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">A new recipient of Canada Arts Training Fund, the dance company will receive $100,000 in 2024-25 and $100,000 in 2025-26. This funding responds to historic funding inequities for Indigenous and racialized training schools. This priority was announced in Budget 2022, as part of a $5-million funding increase for the Canada Arts Training Fund.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">“I am continuing a legacy of African Diasporic dance companies before KasheDance. To receive support from the Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage for the diverse training of Canadian artists in dance is truly an honour. This support serves as an affirmation of a Canadian future where diverse approaches to training and the development of dance artists will showcase Canada's unique creative sector both nationally and internationally,” said Ormsby. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">The founder, artistic director and choreographer said he is “fully committed to utilizing this funding to foster the growth of professional dance artists while promoting the sustainability of historically marginalized and racialized arts organizations. It reinforces our dedication to the evolution of the creative sector and adapting to the changing needs of artists."</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The dance technique used by the company, KasheDanceTek, was created by Ormsby and incorporates Afro Caribbean and contemporary movements, music, philosophies and training techniques. KasheDance has performed at the Canada Dance Festival, Dancing on the Edge Festival, Dance Immersion’s presentation series and at many other acclaimed venues in Canada, the United States and in the Caribbean.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Minister St-Onge said seeing vibrant, diverse forms of dance explored and taught is inspiring. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“KasheDance is a beautiful example of how cultures can be shared through art. Its training program will help teach new dancers these styles and provide opportunities for communities to experience it. It’s wonderful to be here and to see firsthand how much our investments really mean for people and communities. Our government is proud to support groups like KasheDance,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The company is the only formal professional, Black-led dance training program operating on an ongoing basis in Toronto, where there is a lack of training opportunities for Black artists in Black artistic traditions. This support, through the Canada Arts Training Fund, will allow KasheDance to expand and further develop its professional training program.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Minister Ien said as a proud Torontonian with Caribbean roots, she is thrilled to see the vibrant spirit and cultural richness that KasheDance brings to Toronto and Canada. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Its performances showcase the beauty of Caribbean heritage, while also serving as a powerful reminder of the diverse tapestry that makes Canada truly exceptional. I am so proud that our government supports KasheDance’s arts, and I know that it will continue to inspire and uplift audiences."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">February is Black History Month in Canada, which is a time to recognize Black excellence, especially organizations that are leaders in their fields like KasheDance, said Canadian Heritage.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Graduates of KasheDance’s professional program are working with KasheDance and other Canadian performing arts companies, such as Little Pear Garden Collective, Kaeja Dance, the Shaw Festival, the Stratford Festival, Fujiwara Dance Creations, the Collective of Black Artists, the Luminato Festival Toronto and Coleman + Lemieux.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxURf76wxDqt3qtOfH689D0llGutzH5U7wvobiOq_mA0gRexvrcpUr1WkOHD1rJSy3htBvYDUHY0oyYUsaAAEvhxENHjbmmOCHW_CsLBg5lveJdipKYkgl0gVeCPey7kXoFJzupqvNYRpMvBYOANMYbuR7mILZk2salEghFBHmJgUJWOuguxUZRSzmi2ZA/s4000/KasheDance%20and%20Canadian%20Government%20Ministers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="1868" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxURf76wxDqt3qtOfH689D0llGutzH5U7wvobiOq_mA0gRexvrcpUr1WkOHD1rJSy3htBvYDUHY0oyYUsaAAEvhxENHjbmmOCHW_CsLBg5lveJdipKYkgl0gVeCPey7kXoFJzupqvNYRpMvBYOANMYbuR7mILZk2salEghFBHmJgUJWOuguxUZRSzmi2ZA/w298-h640/KasheDance%20and%20Canadian%20Government%20Ministers.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Members of KasheDance with Ministers Marci Ien and Pascale St-Onge, left to right: Jill Cato stooping, Vanessa Sandre, Kevin A. Ormsby, Orin T. McRey, Cheryl Chan, and Kaitlin Standeven. Sitting are Dwauntea Chambers and Ariel Simms</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The company is unique in Canada due to its use of the Critical Response Process to create, teach, research and present dances based on the realities of African Diasporic experiences. This creative process includes giving and receiving feedback throughout the progression of a work’s creation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Trained in classical ballet and contemporary dance, Ormsby is an internationally recognized dancer, choreographer and teacher. He is the program manager of Cultural Pluralism in the Arts Movement Ontario and is on the faculty of the dance program at Centennial College in Toronto. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">He is also a frequent guest instructor at the National Ballet School, the University of Madison-Wisconsin and the College of Fine Arts at the University of Texas – Austin. Ormsby is a 2014 Canada Council for the Arts Victor Martyn Lynch-Staunton Award in Dance recipient, a 2016 Ontario Arts Council Chalmers Fellowship and a Toronto Arts Council Cultural Leaders Lab Fellow.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8.65pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">KasheDance is the Company In Residence at Citadel + Compagnie, a Toronto-based dance company and creation centre. Through this relationship, the organization has a dedicated space for sustained development, creative work, presentation and training. It is also a home to national and international guest artists and choreographers.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-36644084875675890042024-02-28T15:22:00.000-08:002024-02-28T15:22:29.384-08:00Reimagined Play Looks at the Impact of Colonialism on the African Continent<p> <span style="background-color: white; color: #4d5156; font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #4d5156; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #4d5156; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaGCLPzWL8JAG0UhciDAv6TswPyujvNEK-fg_cO_M0x0h2MYpRbMuxu6fLA2Lhl-MzSkdHJsTym74sSEZVp2RVQA88B_QnkHsqzL5tcBP5uxLnHXmSlzohCEE0adaXY3TzVpltzG8zmUj_qg7k64ZOGZu_QdFb_6usOn2a2d4qX-JPFAorFfV2YeM3Hoh/s1534/Mumbi%20Tindyebwa%20Otu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1534" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaGCLPzWL8JAG0UhciDAv6TswPyujvNEK-fg_cO_M0x0h2MYpRbMuxu6fLA2Lhl-MzSkdHJsTym74sSEZVp2RVQA88B_QnkHsqzL5tcBP5uxLnHXmSlzohCEE0adaXY3TzVpltzG8zmUj_qg7k64ZOGZu_QdFb_6usOn2a2d4qX-JPFAorFfV2YeM3Hoh/w428-h640/Mumbi%20Tindyebwa%20Otu.jpg" width="428" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Mumbi Tindyebwa Otu, director of "Three Sisters" by Inna Ellams after Chekhov</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #4d5156; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #4d5156; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Aficionados of theatre will have a chance to see a reimagined play with a 12-member Black cast on stage at the Soulpepper Theatre, starting today.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #4d5156; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The adaptation of Russian author and playwright Anton Chekhov's play, “Three Sisters, which was written in 1900, and reimagined in 2019 by Nigeria-born, British poet and playwright, Inua Ellams, will be showcased in a collaboration of Soulpepper Theatre and Obsidian Theatre.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #4d5156; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The play, first performed in 1901 at the Moscow Art Theatre, has been recreated to locate the iconic characters in Owerri, Nigeria, in 1967, on the brink of the Biafran Civil War. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">A year has passed since their father died but the three sisters – Lolo, Nne Chukwu and Udo – are still grappling with his loss. What’s more, they’re stuck in a small village in Owerri, Nigeria and are longing to return to the cosmopolitan city of their birth, Lagos. What they don’t know is that the Biafran Civil War is about to erupt and change their lives and their country. Chekhov’s classic play is reimagined to explore the devastation of colonialism and a fight for emancipation through the lens of a family and love, notes a synopsis of the play. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Mumbi Tindyebwa Otu, artistic director of Obsidian Theatre Company, is the director of “Three Sisters” by Inua Ellams after Chekhov which opens on March 7 and runs until March 24 at Soulpepper Theatre in the Distillery District, with a few previews starting February 29.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">A decade ago, she was at Soulpepper Academy, a training program for theatre artists, when she first experienced “Three Sisters” by Chekhov. It was produced by Soulpepper, and actor d’bi.young was the only Black person in it. Tindyebwa Otu was mesmerized by her presence and performance.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">She felt a personal connection to the story and was asked in a scene study to play one of the sisters. As one of three sisters and a brother, she felt a connection to the Russian family — their longings, disappointments, joys and failures.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“But I am looking at it inside my own body as an African woman and as an immigrant. The characters in the play are longing for home, a place that used to be home that is no longer, and there is this desire to go back to that place.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">When she was appointed as the new artistic director of Obsidian in August 2020, this was one of the first plays she read, and she was fascinated to see Ellams’s reimagination of it in this context of an African country in the 1960s. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Tindyebwa Otu said it was telling a story about a part of African history that very few people in the west knew and it did so in an epic dramatic way. The play also has an all-Black cast which was thrilling and something rarely seen. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">After talking about it for a couple years, she and Weyni Mengesha<b>, </b>artistic director<b> </b>of Soulpepper Theatre Company, decided to make it happen. “It came together from the desire to do something meaningful and epic together,” said Tindyebwa Otu.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">She said assembling the team was a big part of the production and it was exciting “to be able to see, wow, we have such a breadth of Black talent in Toronto who can tell this story and do it well.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The cast includes Akosua Amo-Adem, Virgilia Griffith, Daren A. Herbert, Sterling Jarvis, JD Leslie, Tawiah M’Carthy, Ngabo Nabea, Makambe K. Simamba, Tony Ofori, Oyin Oladejo, Ordena Stephens-Thompson and Amaka Umeh.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Tindyebwa Otu said the play is humorous and relatable because it focuses on human beings going through their journey, “but they look like you, they may sound like you, they may remind you of someone who looks like you or sounds like you.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">At the heart of the play is a look at the impact of colonialism and neo-colonialism on the African continent.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 22.5pt;"><span style="color: #373a36; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The artistic director said there are also plans to have an African marketplace and more surrounding “Three Sisters” during its run.<o:p></o:p></span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-62381603680883444492024-02-22T10:47:00.000-08:002024-02-22T10:47:52.288-08:00Black Opera About Nova Scotian Contralto Portia White ‘A Love Letter to Black Women’<p><span style="background-color: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12.5pt;">By Neil Armstrong</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12.5pt;"><br /></span></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijVpLWMCO6gZbIbcq73hpZPiwVwQQjzO4Oi4j3PkUrR0KZIbyHZSzxPg43IZnorc_-sR-7gp7Dyim7XyQKaQvOYN8dNQJYLrLT-yTCAhGLJQTRggxzWBEjGiMUkU90XR2mc_1qP8rLEMdc9Fg0axiVFdl16shg3pL4Eas6t6d514PFiBZf7cgGZXQDMaXw/s1536/Three%20Aportias%20-%201536x624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="624" data-original-width="1536" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijVpLWMCO6gZbIbcq73hpZPiwVwQQjzO4Oi4j3PkUrR0KZIbyHZSzxPg43IZnorc_-sR-7gp7Dyim7XyQKaQvOYN8dNQJYLrLT-yTCAhGLJQTRggxzWBEjGiMUkU90XR2mc_1qP8rLEMdc9Fg0axiVFdl16shg3pL4Eas6t6d514PFiBZf7cgGZXQDMaXw/w640-h260/Three%20Aportias%20-%201536x624.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(31, 73, 125); color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.666667px; text-align: start;">Photo credit: Librettist/Director HAUI The three Aportias, left to right, Neema Bickersteth, Adrienne Danrich, and SATE</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12.5pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12.5pt;">The upcoming world premiere of “Aportia Chryptych: A Black Opera for Portia White” is considered a “love letter to Black women” by Haui, the director and librettist, as it sets out to reclaim the Black Canadian contralto’s story, evoking memories of the past as a form of political resistance.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12.5pt;">On June 14, 15 and 16, it will be presented at the Canadian Opera Company Theatre on Front Street in Toronto, the city in which White lived after moving from Halifax, Nova Scotia, and died of cancer on February 13, 1968, at age 56. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">White, who was born in Truro, Nova Scotia, was the first Black Canadian concert performer to achieve international fame in the mid-20th century, touring North America and performing in Europe while being hailed as the best classical voice of her generation. Yet despite such artistic accomplishments, her story has been erased from Canadians’ collective memory.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">For Haui, it is poetic justice to share White’s work in an artform that rejected her. It is a recovery of what she did in her lifetime as someone who walked the streets of Toronto and Halifax and tells her story not just as an icon, but also an individual who faced struggles and battled breast cancer, said Haui, who also describes White as Black royalty.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Spoken word, rap, folk songs, hip-hop, R&B, and classic opera repertoire collide in an explosive score that seeks to break down musical silos and unite artistic and cultural communities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Sean Mayes, composer, said it was important to include the various genres of music to showcase the Black culture from which White came. Evidence of that creativity was showcased on February 20, at “A Musical Scripture,” a preview of the Black opera, at the Free Concert Series in the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre in the Canadian Opera Company’s opera house, Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The sneak peek included sopranos Neema Bickersteth as Portia Body, SATE as Portia Soul and Jonelle Sills (standing in for Adrienne Danrich who is based in New York City) as Portia Spirit accompanied by pianist Joy Brown, percussionist Matthew Machanda, and assistant director/assistant producer Sheree Spencer.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“It is February 13th, 1968, the night of Portia White's death. Portia lifts the veil, stepping over into the spirit realm, where she is fractured into her Body, Soul, and Spirit. Within the Bardo (the crossroads between life and death), memories compound as Portia revisits pivotal moments in her past. A figure from her former life begets a maelstrom of memories, fragments of her family, and echoes of her earthly existence, which Portia must decode and decipher. As Portia contends with letting go, she must learn to reconcile in the hopes of ascension. Is it better to be remembered; or is it how we live that truly matters?” That synopsis captures the quandary in which White finds herself as she contemplates her mortality.<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In her career, there is a pivotal decision she is forced to make, a life of music or motherhood at the age of 24. “Portia must leave her son Gerald/Jimmie to fend for himself. The figure of the boy returns, who Portia now understands is the lost soul of her son. In her defense, she imparts knowledge mother to son, justifying that life is not easy and that her child must keep on climbin'. Thinking she has made amends, Portia sends her son on his way to fend for himself, enduring the secrets of his past and never to say a mumbalin’ word,” notes the synopsis. <br /><br />In Act I, White finds herself once again at the crossroads between life and death, where she encounters her "rival," Marian Anderson. “Portia must wrestle with understanding the history and future of racial barriers, the heartaches of a promised land uncharted, and a rebirth for black equality while contending with her overwhelming desire to find inner cohesion in her fractured state. She can finally break bread with Marian; however, she is once again faced with the form of her son.”<br /><br />In Act II,<b> </b>amidst the Bardo, Portia Spirit and Portia Body urge Portia Soul to ride on and continue through the intermediate realm to deal with her unfinished business. Portia encounters the echoes of World War Two and the effects on women in the workforce. These memories parallel her recollection and climb to international success as she prepares for her New York premiere amidst the growing racism from the American South.<br /><br />The opera includes a vignette of White and Viola Desmond, “her dearest comrade, and they discuss the legacy of blackness. They find strength together through their sisterhood and feminine power, unknowingly conjuring the spirit of a lost lover.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />“Portia is faced with the pressures of her performing for Queen Elizabeth I of England. Yet, unbeknownst to those around her, she continues to battle the pains of her illness. Portia wonders if royalty is all it is cracked up to be. Rather than conforming to history's pressures, Portia bends time to redefine what might have happened had she been able to step into her fullest blackness as "the Daughter of Destiny.”<br /><br />“As she shakes time, her father reappears to her. She spends one last moment with the whole world in her hands. Portia realizes her past actions do not define who she was; instead, it is how we live that truly matters,” notes the synopsis.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWOi2hfLX1WxJlQ_RSh4Oj3gnWftweOAE65oaIDeh86mCAPHeHNZ-_7GY0FdZC0LemJ-TP8d5emZUTuo0aT555Lprl07XwJpw1ly_dSBJLEwOqITaYFn73v8hKB9rROtZoiFTiMqBWlLWgP-GUOF9HxHH3rmz7izuFOHcQvCIfrLL2VNn6RWGhzULfJq8B/s2858/Aportia%20Chryptych%20creative%20team.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2858" data-original-width="2315" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWOi2hfLX1WxJlQ_RSh4Oj3gnWftweOAE65oaIDeh86mCAPHeHNZ-_7GY0FdZC0LemJ-TP8d5emZUTuo0aT555Lprl07XwJpw1ly_dSBJLEwOqITaYFn73v8hKB9rROtZoiFTiMqBWlLWgP-GUOF9HxHH3rmz7izuFOHcQvCIfrLL2VNn6RWGhzULfJq8B/w518-h640/Aportia%20Chryptych%20creative%20team.jpg" width="518" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mackenzie Morgan, right, Director, Community Partnerships & Programs, with the some members of the cast and creative team, left to right: composer Sean Mayes, soprano SATE, soprano Neema Bickersteth, soprano Jonelle Sills, director and librettist HAUI, pianist Joy Brown, percussionist Matthew Machanda, and assistant director Sheree Spencer at the Free Concert Series on February 20, 2024, where a musical scripture preview of the opera was presented</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The cast and creative teams are composer Sean Mayes with Haui; director and librettist Haui; assistant director Sheree Spencer; dramaturg Neema Bickersteth; conductor Sean Mayes; set & projection design Laura Warren; lighting design Bonnie Beecher; costume design Diseiye Thompson; sound design Wayne Hawthorne; stage manager Kat Chin; and choreography & intimacy director Aria Evans. The three sopranos are Neema Bickersteth as Portia Body, Adrienne Danrich as Portia Spirit, and SATE as Portia Soul.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Haui</span><b style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">is an award-winning mixed-media artist who defies categorization. Haui's work explores themes of race, gender, and orientation, shedding light on stories often relegated to the peripheries of history while blurring lines between theatrical mediums. To date, Haui has worked as a director, designer, and deviser of new work for theatre, film, opera, and visual arts working for Canada's leading arts organizations, including the Canadian Opera Company, Stratford Festival, National Arts Centre, Shaw Festival, Canadian Stage, Luminato Festival, Black Theatre Workshop, and more.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Recently Haui was associate director on the Toronto production of "Choir Boy" by Tarell Alvin McCraney. In 2023, Haui directed "Private Flowers," an exploration of queer history produced by Toronto History Museums, supported by the National Ballet of Canada's open residency program and the Ontario Arts Council. Later this year, Playwright's Canada Press will also publish his writing/poetry as part of an anthology of works exploring Black history.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3qNPPJFTamn3KqKBjG0TfkKk5RnZZQY_62NIzdub2wgymOTR4s7uo-WMxJiQSXCkuY8-CSMhWsSdTR_FaHa3CEAZk9iPuax7FRz2ytHp_QQhYuVNgmXc1lzMye7d91kS6AN38bbqs4nDWBwv1yvSDc1ceLiJQGo-iZswPshBwwwlLSNPxdGQLXBqitOHl/s4032/Aportia%20roundtable%20chat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3qNPPJFTamn3KqKBjG0TfkKk5RnZZQY_62NIzdub2wgymOTR4s7uo-WMxJiQSXCkuY8-CSMhWsSdTR_FaHa3CEAZk9iPuax7FRz2ytHp_QQhYuVNgmXc1lzMye7d91kS6AN38bbqs4nDWBwv1yvSDc1ceLiJQGo-iZswPshBwwwlLSNPxdGQLXBqitOHl/w640-h480/Aportia%20roundtable%20chat.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A roundtable chat with the creative team of <i>Aportia Chryptych: A Black Opera for Portia White </i>after a preview of it was presented at the Free Concert Series in the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Mayes, who was born in Toronto and based out of New York City, enjoys an active and varied career internationally as a conductor, music director, orchestrator, arranger, composer, author, and educator across North America and Europe, with his work spanning numerous musical styles and performed in some of the world’s largest theatres and concert halls, moving between Broadway, theatre, opera, classical and pops.<br /><br />In New York, he shares his time as conductor for two Tony Award-winning Broadway productions, the new MJ: The Musical and Hadestown. At home in Canada, he was music director and conductor of the all-Canadian premiere of The Color Purple in 2019, for which he was awarded the Merritt Award for Outstanding Musical Direction.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">At the media tour held just before the preview of the opera about Portia White, Al Ramsay, a director of the COC’s board and chair of the COC’s community partnership & programming team; Mackenzie Morgan, director, community partnerships & programs; and Avril Sequeira, director of public relations spoke of opera company’s initiatives to be more representative and inclusive of Canada.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In the Winter 2024 Program, Perryn Leech, COC general director, notes that for the month of February the lineup for its Showcase Series focuses on performances and programming from African and Caribbean artists. He also highlighted the Free Concert Series on February 20 as an “exclusive first listen to the music of <i>Aportia Chryptych: A Black Opera for Portia White</i>” describing its premiere in June as “a major milestone in this project’s journey.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii7xl3r7TiGihgGqePsHrxCgG_QXv7fG6OjcmWMaJiNAaryOF4LropwSHatrEc5r561OohUUmVnQ8Tke42vKJoZ5uKZ3sGCB5KAd3iCaVRYGh3VwXE9ITTJU_2EjQxBdspmZXuWjVnquSB7_xLWavwy9hxj2a1b3TQ71Yvgn77C-_Ye55oGHBh_zZDiHrR/s4032/Al%20Ramsay%20Kamala-Jean%20Gopie%20Jonelle%20Sills.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii7xl3r7TiGihgGqePsHrxCgG_QXv7fG6OjcmWMaJiNAaryOF4LropwSHatrEc5r561OohUUmVnQ8Tke42vKJoZ5uKZ3sGCB5KAd3iCaVRYGh3VwXE9ITTJU_2EjQxBdspmZXuWjVnquSB7_xLWavwy9hxj2a1b3TQ71Yvgn77C-_Ye55oGHBh_zZDiHrR/w480-h638/Al%20Ramsay%20Kamala-Jean%20Gopie%20Jonelle%20Sills.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Al Ramsay, a Director of the COC and Chair of the COC's Community Partnership & Programming Team with arts patron Kamala-Jean Gopie and soprano Jonelle Sills</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /><br />The Showcase Series features artists and creatives from the Asian, African and Caribbean, and Latin American diasporas, to celebrate and amplify voices of colour through creative expression, storytelling, and cultural participation. Performances are free but require registration.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Meanwhile, the Free Concert Series in the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre is “committed to removing barriers to support access for all attendees. In line with this commitment, admission is free to all performances, and we invite our attendees to embrace a spirit of inclusion for their fellow concert-goers.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Apart from the </span><span style="color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Free Concert Series<span style="background: white;"> and Showcase Series, the relatively new Community Partnerships & Programs department of the COC includes initiatives such as </span>Opera Makers Programming<span style="background: white;">,</span> COC Summer Opera Intensive<span style="background: white;">, and </span>COC Teen Council<span style="background: white;">.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The department is committed to making opera accessible and dedicated to providing diverse access points and opportunities for the next generation of creatives.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;">It connects young people, parents, educators, and communities with meaningful and experiential learning opportunities. “Our programs are designed to spark creative power through culturally responsive and engaging learning opportunities,” notes the department.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Some members of the COC Teen Council engaged members of the creative team of “Aportia Chryptych: A Black Opera for Portia White”<i> </i>in a roundtable chat after the preview on February 20. Their questions were insightful, and the discussion provided an opportunity for members of the public who were curious about the opera to ask questions and hear directly from the creatives.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgjXDA93TRaQBWtCvxdPu9vB-P3dBr-qzPN9XAXnobYQ2nNYxDptmJ9yKTUPYO6k_kwvVJ_H647Pd5b0e8d8fAeTQoN-uypfQf_M_XN-c0bTvULZ1M93tu57KOlZBq1WPwUuPDjFBA7KjuGWAM2vf167ZM98P8fzxvFxVfFP34JEJztBG2Fpl6EE6ziS3C/s4032/Al%20Ramsay%20and%20Avril%20Sequeira.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgjXDA93TRaQBWtCvxdPu9vB-P3dBr-qzPN9XAXnobYQ2nNYxDptmJ9yKTUPYO6k_kwvVJ_H647Pd5b0e8d8fAeTQoN-uypfQf_M_XN-c0bTvULZ1M93tu57KOlZBq1WPwUuPDjFBA7KjuGWAM2vf167ZM98P8fzxvFxVfFP34JEJztBG2Fpl6EE6ziS3C/w480-h640/Al%20Ramsay%20and%20Avril%20Sequeira.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Al Ramsay, a director of the Canadian Opera Company's Board and Chair of its Community Partnership & Programming Team makes a presentation with Avril Sequeira, Director of Public Relations<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimuYB1VrJrqtm51xsP4qyKQD64t2vzrQCI9zlINT3dgm9autgdNaQKl_eqmZ6kESvZBcq9xqWNtTpV9e5MSWiDlJPMGC8gzqwo8aKiVdci7_i15ZQzQCI5X9DxVtLZPlZjoO5ZicSLdjvv72aU-0toobAGRyrUPiL6FHAUO684Xth2HXKzZ8PErhtxab0Q/s4032/SATE%20and%20Kamala-Jean%20Gopie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimuYB1VrJrqtm51xsP4qyKQD64t2vzrQCI9zlINT3dgm9autgdNaQKl_eqmZ6kESvZBcq9xqWNtTpV9e5MSWiDlJPMGC8gzqwo8aKiVdci7_i15ZQzQCI5X9DxVtLZPlZjoO5ZicSLdjvv72aU-0toobAGRyrUPiL6FHAUO684Xth2HXKzZ8PErhtxab0Q/w480-h640/SATE%20and%20Kamala-Jean%20Gopie.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kamala-Jean Gopie and soprano SATE, who plays Portia Soul, in the opera</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="background-color: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The Canadian Opera Company will celebrate its 75</span><sup style="background-color: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;">th</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #231f20; font-family: Cambria, serif;">anniversary in 2025.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-5459754585155641692024-02-19T19:41:00.000-08:002024-02-19T19:41:36.466-08:00Black Canadians Welcome Mandatory Black History Learning in Ontario<p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNhmWhmWGIWkVGKOAP1q_lnl-S0Mi7uJKzbJE3l_4prkiMe4-W4SJrb0bYb_pgKYo4iXlg-sab2LDwKgA_pHYwGRHmGuZ4xnS7ANjKtqUyuEJgFC9RZeTWj78Xzt-s-3-rbAHUvGdAZJaNZDkzL_PC6BFMNw-_hlEJkDjYjOxwBjfm1WGUAS4apGaKP5Cf/s4032/Patrice%20Barnes2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNhmWhmWGIWkVGKOAP1q_lnl-S0Mi7uJKzbJE3l_4prkiMe4-W4SJrb0bYb_pgKYo4iXlg-sab2LDwKgA_pHYwGRHmGuZ4xnS7ANjKtqUyuEJgFC9RZeTWj78Xzt-s-3-rbAHUvGdAZJaNZDkzL_PC6BFMNw-_hlEJkDjYjOxwBjfm1WGUAS4apGaKP5Cf/w480-h640/Patrice%20Barnes2.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patrice Barnes, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Education, Government of Ontario</td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Several figures in the Black community have welcomed </span><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Cambria, serif;">the recent announcement by the Ontario government that it will be introducing new mandatory learning in Grades 7, 8 and 10 history classes on the exceptional contributions and history of Black Canadians who helped build Canada.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Starting in September 2025, students in these grades will learn that Black history is Canadian history and find out about the various Black communities that emerged, developed and contributed to the development of Canada, including pre- and post-Confederation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Over the next year, the ministry will consult with historians, educators and the Black community, which will inform the new learning.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“It’s important that all students learn about Black communities in Canada and their enormous impact on the growth of our country. Black people have been a part of the Canadian story since the 1600s,” said Patrice Barnes, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Education. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“And that’s why we aim to deepen students’ understanding of our country’s diverse and vibrant heritage by embedding this mandatory learning. It highlights the numerous significant milestones, which will help students develop a greater understanding of our country’s rich heritage.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The government also said it is continuing its work on a modernized and up-to-date curriculum to ensure students graduate with real-life job skills and knowledge that they need to succeed – in the classroom and beyond. With the expedited growth in technological advancement and rise in entrepreneurship, the province is introducing updated curriculum starting in the next school year that prepares students for the jobs of tomorrow, it said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Black history is Canadian history,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education. “By mandating learning on the contributions Black individuals made to our country’s founding and success, the next generation of Canadians will better appreciate the sacrifice, patriotic commitment and long-lasting contributions Black Canadians have made to Canada. As the economy and technology continue to change, we will continue to modernize curriculum, with an emphasis on STEM education, so students have the skills and confidence to graduate into good-paying jobs.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Reacting to the government’s move, the Ontario Public School Boards' Association (OPSBA) Black Trustees’ Caucus (BTC), which has been advocating for this change in the curriculum since its inception, said it is thrilled that it has come to fruition.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“The minister has said it before, and BTC strongly affirms, Black history is Canadian history. The Canadian identity is not a singular story. Learning about Canada's Black communities and Black leaders will help all students be prepared for a future that is not limited to the confines of their immediate surroundings, but one that encompasses an appreciation of how this country's rich heritage was formed,” said Kathy McDonald, Chair of Black Trustees' Caucus.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She said learning about the Black experience, both past and present, will help all students move beyond the awareness that celebrating Black History Month entails. “In strong public education systems, students learn their true and full histories, they recognize how lessons from the past can help create better futures, and they understand how diverse historical and current perspectives help build strong foundations in democratic societies.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">McDonald said the BTC is grateful that the ministry will continue to modernize Ontario's curriculum through consultation and engagement with Black communities as it is vital for a range of voices and perspectives to be honoured and valued in the creation of this new curriculum.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm8fJMOW17NgOimWNg_ZVi2q27fOT-qgqvVAra30Qzoo-s98Ta3jZX-Ou3ITv6e2wKib45p2TxgXwn8bPZwa5covdBwSXpqRRIiATmCHZbLgHDnL5ZBQBmP99e-cGLhzpIItRbltXF5ShheM2lM4hi0SMsVVhm3j-NrLedJSY0YGKZ6tOLW96ONLCVmNkF/s1136/Kathy%20McDonald%20new%20headshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="640" height="641" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm8fJMOW17NgOimWNg_ZVi2q27fOT-qgqvVAra30Qzoo-s98Ta3jZX-Ou3ITv6e2wKib45p2TxgXwn8bPZwa5covdBwSXpqRRIiATmCHZbLgHDnL5ZBQBmP99e-cGLhzpIItRbltXF5ShheM2lM4hi0SMsVVhm3j-NrLedJSY0YGKZ6tOLW96ONLCVmNkF/w360-h641/Kathy%20McDonald%20new%20headshot.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kathy McDonald, Chair of Black Trustees' Caucus, Ontario Public School Board's Association</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The OPSBA represents public district school boards and public school authorities across Ontario, which together serve more than 1.3 million public elementary and secondary students. It advocates on behalf of the best interests and needs of the public school system in Ontario.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">"OPSBA welcomes this announcement, which is an important moment for all Ontarians. Embedded curriculum will help ensure our students learn about the history, contributions, and excellence of Black Canadians,” said Cathy Abraham, President of the OPSBA.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Shernett Martin, CEO and Executive Director of ANCHOR Canada, said Black history is Canadian history. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“From coast to coast to coast, the Black experience permeates throughout our communities. This announcement slated to include Black Canadian history for Grades 7, 8 and 10 will ensure that students across Ontario will be introduced to stories and profiles inherent to our Canadian identity that celebrates history, diversity and culture. Minister Lecce’s commitment to expanding the Ontario curriculum is another important step in making Ontario’s curriculum a curriculum for all."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In the meantime, the Peel District School Board (PDSB) said it is well positioned for the recent announcement about mandated content on Black history in the curriculum. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">It said Black history is Canadian history and has already been integrated into the design of classroom learning across many schools in the PDSB. The Board’s theme this year for Black History Month is<i> “</i>Afrofuturism: Examine the Past, Question the Present, Imagine the Future.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In a media release, the PDSB noted that according to the Smithsonian Magazine, Afrofuturism expresses notions of Black identity, agency and freedom through art, creative works and activism that envision liberated futures for Black life.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Developing an understanding of Afrofuturism allows students and staff the opportunity<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">to explore the past, present and future significance of Black culture and its contributions<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">to our everyday lives. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">During Black History Month, schools across the Peel District School Board will participate in several activities that recognize and celebrate the rich heritage, history, culture and contributions of Black Canadians as well as Black communities from around the world.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“As we participate in festivities and events over the course of this month and beyond, we take the time to recognize the outstanding achievements of Black Canadians in all<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">areas of Canadian life including in science, technology, media, the arts, sports,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">education, law, healthcare, military services, financial services and more. PDSB’s “</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">We Rise Together 2.0: Black Student Success Strategy” </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">is an example of our commitment to amplifying the contributions of Black Canadians in all areas of the curriculum,” it said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Lisa Hart, Superintendent, Equity, Indigenous Education, School Engagement and Community Relations, said the PDSB is committed to ensuring equitable outcomes for African, Black, and Afro-Caribbean students through meaningful opportunities to engage with authentic and rich content. “Our work is grounded in an ethic of care that celebrates Black excellence and brilliance all year long.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheoC2bZZHqiDk5RDD3bEHR4QA4Vfo6lbW5s8Gh2gCBI2O-16Mes4-21dkFHYyTK5TRZQe4lxBKg5LLgfCgpIw4GnQiLKltmkkYG1UAwdJK-YK0zSWVN2hAG52a6oLeQYDVYOSapiIuOEIquU2T7uHnursZnA7Is5TWApqerIQQYC4RkoC4vdgbbNCYITIA/s4032/Justin%20Trudeau%20onboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheoC2bZZHqiDk5RDD3bEHR4QA4Vfo6lbW5s8Gh2gCBI2O-16Mes4-21dkFHYyTK5TRZQe4lxBKg5LLgfCgpIw4GnQiLKltmkkYG1UAwdJK-YK0zSWVN2hAG52a6oLeQYDVYOSapiIuOEIquU2T7uHnursZnA7Is5TWApqerIQQYC4RkoC4vdgbbNCYITIA/w480-h640/Justin%20Trudeau%20onboard.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the Emancipation Day Underground Freedom Train Ride organized by Blackhurst Cultural Centre in Toronto on July 31, 2023</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">On February 7 — one day before the Ontario government announced mandatory Black history learning in those grades in schools — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau revealed in Ottawa that the federal government will extend its observation of the United Nations (UN) International Decade for People of African Descent, 2015-2024, to 2028.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Black Canadians have helped make Canada the country we love. From groundbreaking trailblazers in halls of fame and history books to unsung heroes in communities across the country, Black excellence is all around us. However, as we grow and become more diverse, Canada’s painful history of anti-Black racism continues to impact Black communities, preventing many from reaching their full potential. We can – and we must – do better,” notes a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">It noted that the UN Decade “helps us build inclusive programs to empower people of African descent and advance our work to combat racism, discrimination, and xenophobia faced by people of African descent in Canada and around the world. While the UN Decade ends this year, we are reaffirming our support to Black communities.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The prime minister said this will be an extension of the federal government’s efforts to promote equality and empower Black Canadians. Using the frameworks of the UN Decade, this extension will support Black Canadians and strengthen their leadership in business, social justice, and community, it said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Diversity is a fact, but inclusion is a choice. By extending our efforts under the International Decade for People of African Descent in Canada, we are reaffirming our commitment to support Black Canadians. Using the frameworks set out by the UN, we will invest in Black-led programs, advance racial justice, and ensure Black Canadians have the opportunities they deserve to reach their full potential,” said Prime Minister Trudeau.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The government said it has made transformative investments to empower Black communities across the country. “Since endorsing the UN Decade in 2018, we have committed up to $860 million to Black-focused initiatives – from racial justice to entrepreneurship to </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">economic dignity. Through the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">, we have invested in more than 2,300 projects to grow charities and non-profit organizations, for Black Canadians, by Black Canadians.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Last year, the government selected the Foundation for Black Communities to manage the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund. The Fund will provide long-term, sustainable funding to charities and non-profit organizations fighting anti-Black racism and improving social and economic well-being in predominantly Black communities. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“With the </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Black Entrepreneurship Program</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">, we are helping thousands of Black Canadian business owners and entrepreneurs start up, scale up, and succeed,” noted the statement.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“The UN Decade has been an important roadmap to help us recognize the distinct rights, culture, and accomplishments of the more than 1.5 million people of African descent living in Canada today. But just as the contributions of the Black diaspora to this country have endured for generations, so too must our commitment extend beyond the bounds of any single decade. I remain committed to supporting recognition, justice, and development for Black communities across Canada through 2028 and in the years beyond,” said Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The principles of the UN Decade continue to guide Canada in its efforts to combat anti-Black racism and remove systemic barriers for marginalized communities, the statement noted.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">In 2018, Canada endorsed the UN International Decade for People of African Descent, which runs from 2015 to 2024. In so doing, Canada became the first country belonging to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development to formally recognize the UN Decade.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-52300791683211834472024-02-13T13:32:00.000-08:002024-02-13T13:32:24.819-08:00‘WORD, SOUND, POWER’ Celebrated Artistic Expressions and was Incisive Too<p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVLIsvVqjkGbeYTxWE6e9ePve94jpRfnZ2yF6StCNbsqXyrkz6CK-fVpYEK18sVuwvBfktQs4bk0UIVjH1VWOTq3iNI5EzaRB8WoSyVtz7RgteFQ6qk0j1fvtP1d6onShrhRCKzevUpcPapOeU4752JaZIcty5vmzWwUy1erJQqSeqVzbD4wwCsGEPjZK/s2362/JeanAugustineWSP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1576" data-original-width="2362" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVLIsvVqjkGbeYTxWE6e9ePve94jpRfnZ2yF6StCNbsqXyrkz6CK-fVpYEK18sVuwvBfktQs4bk0UIVjH1VWOTq3iNI5EzaRB8WoSyVtz7RgteFQ6qk0j1fvtP1d6onShrhRCKzevUpcPapOeU4752JaZIcty5vmzWwUy1erJQqSeqVzbD4wwCsGEPjZK/w640-h428/JeanAugustineWSP.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: York University Dr. Jean Augustine speaking at "WORD, SOUND, POWER: An Annual Celebration of Black Artistic Expression" held at York University to celebrate Black History Month</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The annual celebration of Black artistic expression, “WORD, SOUND, POWER,” organized by the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora to recognize Black History Month showcased some brilliant performances complemented by intriguing food for thought. </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Held at Tributes Communities Recital Hall on the Keele campus, many gathered for the </span><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">solo performances, including song and instruments, dance and spoken word, from students across Greater Toronto Area school boards and from the university community.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">Hosted by Dr. Andrea Davis, a professor in the Department of Humanities and chair of the Senate Academic Policy, Planning and Research Committee, it provided an opportunity to hear from Robert Savage, dean of the Faculty of Education, who brought greetings on behalf of the university, Dr. Jean Augustine in whose name the Chair is endowed, and Mark Beckles, vice president, social impact and innovation at RBC.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">Reflecting on what it took to get Black History Month officially recognized in Canada, Dr. Augustine spoke of persistently standing outside offices and in the corridors of the House of Commons with copies of the Black History Month motion to win the support of fellow politicians. Parliament voted to officially recognize the month as such in 1995.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">Emphasizing that Black History is Canadian History, she underscored the importance of allies who understand and do their homework to become effectively so — “We need to know each other’s stories and history,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Beckles said the issues that confront the Black community transcend ideology and require of everyone a certain urgency and new forms of collaboration.</span><span style="color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Although he has held senior positions in financial services, worked with Nelson Mandela and met public figures from around the world, Beckles said that in looking back he could have done a lot more with the right support and access to opportunities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Noting that access to opportunity is still denied to many people, the RBC executive said he has witnessed “the economic subterfuge, coerced sabotage, social subordination, happening in symmetry and with symphonic precision behind the smiles of individuals who were too often complicit in that endeavour.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I see bold commitments, like RBC’s actions against systemic racism, challenged by a constituency that accuses us all too often of being “woke” and pandering to a DEI [diversity, equity and inclusion] cabal. A constituency that would be opposed to us supporting the Jean Augustine Chair. And while standing here I cannot help but think of Dr. Claudine Gay and the undoing by stealth of her achievements and legacy at Harvard University, which happens to be my wife's alma matter, as well,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Beckles noted that there is a view that to be a champion, or a beneficiary of DEI, “means that you are part of this woke cabal, part of a band of cowards, or pander to the ultra-left wing and that any progress made as a diverse person is nothing but symbolism and is not the result of hard work, nor achieving. And thus, since you are hired for symbolism, you should also be fired for symbolism. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Left to some, many here would still be on the other side looking in, instead of on the inside, inviting others. So, let's agree that there's an accepted and taxing everyday racism, the polite kind that racialized people have come to accept, and which we live with as a natural course of life.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> These are manifested in the strange reactions to people of colour who are smart, the microaggressions, the exclusion from business and social circles, the views that “we are statistics of some kind; we are at risk and predisposed to social and economic failure. The kind that creates and invites a missionary mindset among the privileged and one that perpetuates itself. The subtle questions of belonging spaces that pretend to be inclusive and never-ending strategic efforts to make them so, but where inclusion, actually, recedes as the system reasserts itself.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Beckles was critical of self-proclaimed allies, champions, who sacrifice very little in the service of others, and referenced kind and unkind examples of racism that exist.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He cautioned about the status quo that prefers to remain intact and pushes against the inclusion of Black Canadians in various spheres.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Notwithstanding the talent and resilience and capabilities, and despite their best efforts, there always seems to be an orchestrated mechanism that knows when to push back. And it is invisible in the shadows but it’s there. We call it a system because we can't see whose hands are on the till. A system that finds social preference and hierarchy that asserts institutional memory and then allows the elastic to snap back to its original preferred and exclusive form. And no sector is immune from that elastic snapping back, not even education,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIOagUxb3JUximPNhY1etgxZ0ixGsKHeEaps_95h5VrHvvR7KElv_HiQfB_EXHyzpiccgUaW6MnaFrF_vmZ9bHJhnTb9fq7zXYN3our5aJOBbDlP_j16ZyBFDJ_Wba5kqnwTa2PSunmmQQl2tbxpy5qdlK1YaPH77T5DNk0jTUu4Xbu4wiw5BfivqI7wah/s1342/MarkBecklesWSP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1342" data-original-width="978" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIOagUxb3JUximPNhY1etgxZ0ixGsKHeEaps_95h5VrHvvR7KElv_HiQfB_EXHyzpiccgUaW6MnaFrF_vmZ9bHJhnTb9fq7zXYN3our5aJOBbDlP_j16ZyBFDJ_Wba5kqnwTa2PSunmmQQl2tbxpy5qdlK1YaPH77T5DNk0jTUu4Xbu4wiw5BfivqI7wah/w466-h640/MarkBecklesWSP.jpg" width="466" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: York University Mark Beckles, Vice President, Social Impact and Innovation, RBC, speaking at "WORD, SOUND, POWER: An Annual Celebration of Black Artistic Expression"</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Using the analogy of an elastic band, Beckles posited that in the aftermath of the murder of African American George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota in May 2020, many governments, corporations and foundations introduced measures to address social equity issues, but these will recede if sustained efforts<b> </b>against the status quo abate. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I am concerned that as the narrative focuses away from diversity, equity and inclusion, those exhausted champions of ours will redirect their funding and their efforts to work of other interests. That presents a significant risk not only to new organizations I should say, and to their causes, but also those that have carried for some time and sometimes to this day struggle to raise money.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">With all the investments in near-term commitments, he asked — “Are we better off? Are the barriers to inclusion and access sufficiently removed that we have disproportionately and incrementally more opportunities than we did three years ago?”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsOeb4WH7C3DgbgIrYwmMA3DyduozTzM2RY_kD_PxAKGBz1SHB5LYIGHE6Y8PDOQLM0myWXxANyPJN3hRC6aIOlKGaloUCIkbtsSS6n0k4XFoU5fgLwrZJKdc-QsQxOciB13uGypg-0xkpY_qtBX4TxVUAZUvlxTs2qeVe38yX3XPw3q6anvE-Ld5CPErq/s2190/MissSteppers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1460" data-original-width="2190" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsOeb4WH7C3DgbgIrYwmMA3DyduozTzM2RY_kD_PxAKGBz1SHB5LYIGHE6Y8PDOQLM0myWXxANyPJN3hRC6aIOlKGaloUCIkbtsSS6n0k4XFoU5fgLwrZJKdc-QsQxOciB13uGypg-0xkpY_qtBX4TxVUAZUvlxTs2qeVe38yX3XPw3q6anvE-Ld5CPErq/w640-h426/MissSteppers.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miss Steppers Dance Group at "WORD, SOUND, POWER."<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqQWTUQoI8Dfi7ZAKYRCqMZ5k9C_sndqxQwjfPAiku1-APceli3JxlT_5wRnEW8gAHRnLVjIb8KpYTTDeOMaMmjbbQHbdJ5q4_vbXpttGsKdCBp1cxVq_yQBWxO5QJUtdDtTP2sEXWr0n-_PbrkJDWtoBD4FxBGsNzQJXmyf6YjIbI4-SIBdriNKx52sG3/s2208/York%20University%20R&B%20Ensemble.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1462" data-original-width="2208" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqQWTUQoI8Dfi7ZAKYRCqMZ5k9C_sndqxQwjfPAiku1-APceli3JxlT_5wRnEW8gAHRnLVjIb8KpYTTDeOMaMmjbbQHbdJ5q4_vbXpttGsKdCBp1cxVq_yQBWxO5QJUtdDtTP2sEXWr0n-_PbrkJDWtoBD4FxBGsNzQJXmyf6YjIbI4-SIBdriNKx52sG3/w640-h424/York%20University%20R&B%20Ensemble.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The York University R&B Ensemble at "WORD, SOUND, POWER."</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Beckles said there is a natural tendency for elastic to return to its natural state if not for sustained tension, and if there are no efforts to break its memory, it finds its way back to its original form. Sometimes it snaps back, sometimes it is gradual, but the net result is the same. Those on the margins looking in today are on the margins looking in tomorrow. And so, we have to be thinking about how we manage that, he said. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“The question that needs to be asked is, how can we quickly accelerate past the progress that you've made, leveraging existing community assets and building upon that to support a healthier, less vulnerable community. How do we focus our efforts on wellness indicators that ensure that we enjoy the place in society, whether defined as quality education, housing, health, justice, justice and safety, political engagement, all of which drive toward social inclusion? How do we in the name of family give effect to community's strategic goals like economic and economic and educational capacity, civil rights and engagement and community health and sustainability and safety? How do we work with allies who are genuinely committed to social justice, and who can recognize that they too have a role in breaking down barriers and creating space for others?”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Beckles said the reality is that “we have more wealth and influence in our communities than we have ever had in history, but in order to make sure that the social equity gap does not get wider, the urgency of now demands more of us, future generations demand more of us and perhaps, unfairly so, society demands more of us.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He noted that artistic expression is critical to the effort. “Word sound, power, gives effect to the clarion call that the work of inclusion is not over. Artistic expression reminds us that we are all created equal,” he underscored.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pbp3l88TjwQ5XODgLYZf3ZfyqrDo_Q6vL1GW6irgbSawsCkzzF5nkNYe77sSOr8B2gyyqjOZX46dYrwnTAjH2dPryPTtQeF87FVwsaj1QTkxUcylqtFtMxXhfgZgeVc9PRS6MtsU5cVdqoIRdhxJnLIgmNU6gOVyF4IIl0bqAGny4r5T45-BwioxC0M_/s5884/SpokenWord-Ian%20Kamau.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5884" data-original-width="3925" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pbp3l88TjwQ5XODgLYZf3ZfyqrDo_Q6vL1GW6irgbSawsCkzzF5nkNYe77sSOr8B2gyyqjOZX46dYrwnTAjH2dPryPTtQeF87FVwsaj1QTkxUcylqtFtMxXhfgZgeVc9PRS6MtsU5cVdqoIRdhxJnLIgmNU6gOVyF4IIl0bqAGny4r5T45-BwioxC0M_/w426-h640/SpokenWord-Ian%20Kamau.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spoken word artist Ian Kaman performing at the annual celebration of Black artistic expression, "WORD, SOUND, POWER."</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">The evening featured performances from the Oscar Peterson Jazz Ensemble, York University R&B Ensemble, artist and designer Ian Kamau, York University Gospel Choir, and</span><span style="color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">an Afro-Caribbean dance performance by students from nearby James Cardinal McGuigan Catholic High School in the CIBC Lobby during the welcome reception.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #212529; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-52268509860516276792024-02-13T10:54:00.000-08:002024-02-13T12:39:35.955-08:00Bob Marley Day Humanitarian Awards Honour People Who Make a Difference<p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZGtV9FisOKIZjMsIya12HYSHuGgV7jXPRvAWyRCrEtW6rpO1cxwKv0U2lzQuFPD6RsNFU3j7Zh6noZOqcaiVVE7ZgzJbsWpdRoNn41Q1SIoZhmYZ8SwD1sBQYNwHE6X5TaVLnYnxU3UeX3H1h8R9A9esCEeufXnM0Zw69QrzOukjMrOAxYlC9ISneTv5w/s900/Jay%20Douglas%20and%20Olivia%20Chow.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="836" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZGtV9FisOKIZjMsIya12HYSHuGgV7jXPRvAWyRCrEtW6rpO1cxwKv0U2lzQuFPD6RsNFU3j7Zh6noZOqcaiVVE7ZgzJbsWpdRoNn41Q1SIoZhmYZ8SwD1sBQYNwHE6X5TaVLnYnxU3UeX3H1h8R9A9esCEeufXnM0Zw69QrzOukjMrOAxYlC9ISneTv5w/w594-h640/Jay%20Douglas%20and%20Olivia%20Chow.JPG" width="594" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Graeme Mathieson Jay Douglas and Mayor Olivia Chow at the 2024 Bob Marley Day Humanitarian Awards at City Hall in Toronto</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The annual Bob Marley Day Humanitarian Awards were presented to nine individuals and one organization at City Hall, a day before Bob Marley’s birthday and the City of Toronto-declared Bob Marley Day, February 6.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Lawyer and founder of the Bob Marley Day Committee and awards, Courtney Betty, said thirty-three years ago he was a crown attorney working in the Department of Justice and part of his responsibilities included prosecutions. He observed that most individuals with challenges were coming from the Black community and so he felt that he was caught in the middle.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Betty said he began working with Lance Ingleton, the late well-known reggae promoter, and they talked about using Bob Marley Day to build bridges between the police and the Black community. That was the genesis of the first Bob Marley Day thirty-three years ago.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Since then, we’ve recognized many individuals from all walks of life. It’s never just been about the Black community; we’ve got members of different communities and many others that we’ve honoured. For me, it’s been a great privilege to be able to provide a platform for these individuals that are already achieving so much.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Betty also recognized Raymond Perkins of Roots who has been supporting the initiative over those 33 years by creating jackets that were gifted to the awardees.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Among past recipients are entrepreneur Michael Lee-Chin and Ontario’s first Black lieutenant governor Lincoln Alexander, who Betty said was advised that he could not accept the award because he represented the queen, but he went against the advice and invited them to Queen’s Park where he accepted the award. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Veteran musician Jay Douglas and former university professor and the first president of the Jamaican Canadian Association, Roy Williams, were the recipient of lifetime achievement awards.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Nicholas Marcus Thompson, co-host of the event, said Douglas exemplified a profound commitment not only to his craft, but also to the communities he has touched. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Jay’s influence extends beyond his dynamic performance as the frontman of The Cougars and as a celebrated soul artist gracing stages worldwide. His involvement in critical projects, like the “From Jamaica to Toronto” concert tour, showcases his dedication to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Jamaican music in Canada, making significant cultural contributions that resonate deeply within the community.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Thompson noted that the musician’s presence in Toronto is immortalized through iconic murals in Reggae Lane and on Yonge Street marking him as a central figure in the city’s cultural narrative and a symbol of the enduring cultural ties between Jamaica and Canada.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Music is the only international language of joy,” said Douglas, after quoting the lyrics of Bob Marley — “One thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdtFoDtvzspD8RxOTas_4qZbC34ajhsavWpLsyzoNWBG0pkM_61mUG-6OtWL11uU5kOPfG0TphQriAE7fmUj7y7tESUXp7UOJfV9kU0cdeE_qo5n7viguFAAWimKcoyElHpVVCeTHCBk1MUplWZ1n14Wv7fbmZw1C2uAepcoHJMOayAizHPCmcQ-2aMjo/s1086/Jay%20Douglas%20and%20others%20at%20City%20Hall.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="629" data-original-width="1086" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdtFoDtvzspD8RxOTas_4qZbC34ajhsavWpLsyzoNWBG0pkM_61mUG-6OtWL11uU5kOPfG0TphQriAE7fmUj7y7tESUXp7UOJfV9kU0cdeE_qo5n7viguFAAWimKcoyElHpVVCeTHCBk1MUplWZ1n14Wv7fbmZw1C2uAepcoHJMOayAizHPCmcQ-2aMjo/w640-h370/Jay%20Douglas%20and%20others%20at%20City%20Hall.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jay Douglas, Mayor Olivia Chow, Courtney Betty, Nicholas Marcus Thompson and others at City Hall</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Douglas said his mother, Noreen Pinnock and his aunt came to Canada as domestic workers under the West Indian Domestic Scheme in 1955. They were followed shortly after by his uncles who came as police officers. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Sharing a story about one of the uncles, who once visited Jamaica and upon his return to Toronto asked Douglas to pick him up at the airport, Douglas said that uncle expressed his disappointment in being on a flight with many Rastafarian men. Unbeknownst to him was the fact that Bob Marley was one of the passengers. Douglas introduced his uncle to the legendary Jamaican musician. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Marley did not remember Douglas who reminded him that they went for auditions at Studio One in Kingston, Jamaica, on the same day. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Douglas said Marley was on his first world tour and his first stop in Toronto was at Massey Hall. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He said when The Soulettes — a vocal trio consisting of Rita Marley, her cousin Constantine Walker, and her friend Marlene Gifford, founded in the early 1960s — came to perform at the Royal York Hotel, his band, The Cougars, backed them. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Douglas said Bob Marley visited Club Jamaica on Yonge Street after his performance and when the excited band members left the stage to greet him, the reggae icon told them that they should go back on stage to finish the “people’s work.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Right there and then, he told them about accountability and who we are. And this award that you gave me, I’m accepting it on behalf of the kids, they are the gem of the future. We have to teach them and teach them well.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">On February 18, Douglas will be presented with the Mabel-Helen-Rose Foundation Stone Award by Verity Centre for Better Living for his outstanding contribution to Toronto’s musical landscape.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">This award recognizes those African Canadians whose contributions have been a cornerstone to building community and lifting consciousness in Toronto.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Meanwhile, Douglas will be featured in a documentary that will examine how Canada became an important hub of Jamaican music.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Play it Loud! is a feature documentary that tells the remarkable story of how Jamaican music came to Canada as part of a social and cultural migration that had a seismic impact on Canada, helped transform this country into a modern nation, and make it a mecca for Jamaican music. We tell this story primarily through the life, music, struggles, and triumphs of Jamaican Canadian singer Jay Douglas. Jay is both a witness and participant in the stories we tell - the 1950s’ birth of Jamaican popular music; the early 1960s’ Jamaican migration to Canada; the flowering of a uniquely Canadian Black music culture that is now celebrated around the world, though still little appreciated here. Through Jay’s personal story, we tell a much bigger and largely untold tale of cultural transformation,” says Andrew Munger (Once Were Brothers, Carry it On) who is the producer. Ultramagnetic Productions is the production company, and Clement Virgo (Brother, Book of Negroes) is the executive producer.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFcjEtG5FVxR2aHb9P3ENiceqc8cUbYt8y27GznX9aNQgpEHwAq2GtCjju5tUeaNDgXN28JDJW3AbMvNs8G-z1Plu8KOjlL01nLyz_y8ba_iiKMJ_b9_PUgx4WeTuJgC9NGu5q5Z_E6bkhLkolR_7Jhb10AqqDV_DVMPKkutEHQe2zxP57TEOUp_yjvPBw/s4032/Roy%20Williams%20and%20his%20Bob%20Marley%20Award.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFcjEtG5FVxR2aHb9P3ENiceqc8cUbYt8y27GznX9aNQgpEHwAq2GtCjju5tUeaNDgXN28JDJW3AbMvNs8G-z1Plu8KOjlL01nLyz_y8ba_iiKMJ_b9_PUgx4WeTuJgC9NGu5q5Z_E6bkhLkolR_7Jhb10AqqDV_DVMPKkutEHQe2zxP57TEOUp_yjvPBw/w480-h640/Roy%20Williams%20and%20his%20Bob%20Marley%20Award.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roy Williams, first recipient of the Bob Marley Day Humanitarian Award in 1991, was presented with a lifetime achievement award on February 5, 2024, at City Hall</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Betty said over the duration of the awards, there have been only four individuals that they decided would be presented with the lifetime achievement award. The past recipients were politicians Lincoln Alexander and Alvin Curling.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“This individual, in my view, really represents not only everything that Bob Marley stood for many years ago, but all the things that we need to stand for here today,” said Betty.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He noted there that there was a lot of controversy regarding whether then mayor, Art Eggleton, should declare February 6 as Bob Marley Day in Toronto.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">At that time, Roy Williams was a member of the Toronto Police Services Board — the first Black person in that position — and Betty’s decision to present him with an award “ignited a firestorm on many different levels,” according to Betty.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He noted that Williams went on stage and accepted the award, and encouraged the Black community to put together a legal fund to ensure that the issues in the community would be addressed. Betty said that statement cost Williams his job.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I am proud to introduce Mr. Roy Williams, not just the hero but an individual who has always spoken truth to power irrespective of whether or not it’s going to cost him his job,” said Betty.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Williams, who was the first recipient of the Bob Marley Day Award in 1991, said he was happy to see Amber Morley as deputy mayor because back in the time he served on the TPSB, the Black community had to fight very hard to change the system. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In an abbreviated version of his speech titled, “In Praise of Disruptors,” Williams included lawyer and activist Charles Roach and activist Dudley Laws “who stood up to disrupt, march, resist, and bring change to the city.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I would like to say that the system is always very resistant to making incremental changes. People in power do not quickly give up power,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTaITO3oi3FbHct_nVvH-QWwLe-DZsSmB5RiMzdVUnUdIGqlx-_4dmVVGadOxwobX9fl6vwUzpFez4R7AIiTNIB9h9gM61CHB1hwzwUsM59VkoBNhjyF4gmGtavvusmNPSMC5TXjM5Tf7nP51UmEaUlae4upbvWQiAC1MntanxtjO8Sp030P9SF6RcHuIM/s4032/Roy%20Williams%20and%20Courtney%20Betty.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTaITO3oi3FbHct_nVvH-QWwLe-DZsSmB5RiMzdVUnUdIGqlx-_4dmVVGadOxwobX9fl6vwUzpFez4R7AIiTNIB9h9gM61CHB1hwzwUsM59VkoBNhjyF4gmGtavvusmNPSMC5TXjM5Tf7nP51UmEaUlae4upbvWQiAC1MntanxtjO8Sp030P9SF6RcHuIM/w480-h640/Roy%20Williams%20and%20Courtney%20Betty.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roy Williams and Courtney Betty at the 2024 Bob Marley Day Humanitarian Awards presentation at City Hall</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The other recipients present at the awards ceremony were Amber Morley, Toronto city councillor and deputy mayor; Al Quance, community builder; Frances Delsol, vice-president, operations, national partnerships, outreach & procurement, BBPA; Clarence Ford, community builder; and the Black Talent Initiative, a social impact organization.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Morley was elected to represent Ward 3, Etobicoke-Lakeshore on Toronto City Council on October 24, 2022.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">For over 20 years, she has been working on behalf of the residents of Etobicoke-Lakeshore, while pursuing advocacy at all levels of government. Morley has used her voice to bring attention to issues such as poverty reduction, youth equity, good governance and access to city spaces and services. As the director of the South Etobicoke Youth Assembly at LAMP CHC, she organized, advocated, and fought alongside local young people to advance the needs and aspirations of peers and neighbours in her community.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Morley, who is working to build an equitable and inclusive community for all, </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">noted that there are deep histories in oppression and racism in society but she emphasized that communities and allies mean everything to her. </span><span style="font-family: Roboto; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Quance, a coach who developed a basketball tradition at Eastern Commerce and expanded it to Oakwood Collegiate Institute, said he considered his work his role and responsibility in society. He developed youth programs in the Oakwood and St. Clair area in the 1970s where he established a youth basketball drop-in centre on Tuesdays and Thursdays. He also initiated a Saturday morning youth basketball for the many Black girls and boys in the area who wanted to play the game.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In 2014, Ford, who has worked with Cirque du Soleil, founded Square Circle in Regent Park, one of Toronto’s first inner city social circus programs. It is described as “part of the global social circus movement that drives social change in communities by helping inner city kids realize their creative potential and learn invaluable life skills.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Delsol said initially, she thought she was not deserving of the award, and will have to share the news with people from Dominica where she was born. “The work that we do is important,” she said, noting that her father was a police officer and her mother, a school principal.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“There is still so much to be done, the landscape is still not fair,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The recipients who were absent included Tyler Downey, secretary treasurer of SEIU Healthcare Canada; Matthew Green, member of parliament for Hamilton Centre; and Laura Mae Lindo, a community builder.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Aptos, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-61688384279844926782024-01-25T09:27:00.000-08:002024-01-25T09:27:23.947-08:00Artist Quentin VerCetty Gives Lincoln Alexander Bust He Created a Nickname<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPcHx9dvE9mkLPRWeUPx4u0AzQUauXCPjEtVc6L9a5PBuBd-nfPCL6TL9_GcYUo4FMHBFOkqtYH9KbFiyCNdX4QiER-7WRgRgwK32cwqHBiPEc9TMAJzYaKYd0caLoDJP991u6pzIWnGIxtfXdGg_WPttUc3nrh9AL813q432UdcJdITsI8SjrCb6UTHwf/s2400/quentin-vercetty-mississaugarayyanshoot2023byTaylorCarr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="2400" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPcHx9dvE9mkLPRWeUPx4u0AzQUauXCPjEtVc6L9a5PBuBd-nfPCL6TL9_GcYUo4FMHBFOkqtYH9KbFiyCNdX4QiER-7WRgRgwK32cwqHBiPEc9TMAJzYaKYd0caLoDJP991u6pzIWnGIxtfXdGg_WPttUc3nrh9AL813q432UdcJdITsI8SjrCb6UTHwf/w640-h640/quentin-vercetty-mississaugarayyanshoot2023byTaylorCarr.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Taylor Carr Afrofuturist artist Quentin VerCetty</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Afrofuturist artist Quentin VerCetty who sculpted the Lincoln Alexander Commemorative Bust now permanently installed at Queen’s Park says the nickname he gave it is — “The Linc Bust: Suited for Greatness” — because the former air force corporal, lawyer, politician, vice-regent and icon inspired him.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">This marks the first instance of any likeness honouring a Black Canadian political figure to be displayed in any parliamentary setting in Canada. </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">VerCetty says he got the name from a quote of the first Black Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, first Black Member of Parliament and first Black Cabinet Minister.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“A student asked him while he was chancellor of the University of Guelph in his 80s what keeps you going, you seemed to have done it all. And he said, ‘Every day I wake up and I suit up to be greater than I’d ever been before.’ I hope that any person who sees the statue also can see how they can be greater than they’ve ever been before and aspire to be great and make improvements in their life.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The multidisciplinary artist said he was humbled and in awe to know that Alexander up until his last day was still working so, as an artist, it reminded him that, in Jamaican Patois, “di work cyaan done.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">VerCetty says he was asked by the LINC Bust Committee to submit a proposal for creating the sculpture, which he did, and they liked it, but he thinks he got the nod of approval because of his links to the former Ontario viceregal. He attended the Lincoln M. Alexander Secondary School in Malton, Mississauga, and met the former Black icon there while a student. VerCetty’s life partner, award-winning choreographer Esie Mensah, attended karate classes in Hamilton with Alexander’s late son, Keith, and granddaughters, Erika and Marissa. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">His parents are Jamaicans, and the artist feels that he is following in the footsteps of his ancestors as his great grandfather from Clarendon was a blacksmith who made art pieces out of car and bicycle parts. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I also felt like I was making not only my ancestors proud but Jamaica proud by bigging up one of their own. And then me being one of their own as well just shining in a bright light,” says the sculptor about creating the Linc bust. VerCetty said he is inspired and mentored by another great Jamaican sculptor, Basil Watson.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Reflecting on his personal journey, he said a month after meeting Alexander, he was kicked out of school for not making the best choices and sometimes people count themselves out.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">One day he was skipping class and Alexander, who was visiting that day to address the assembly, walked into the building and spoke to him. VerCetty had no idea who he was and that the school was named after a Black man.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“The gentleman walked straight up to me and says, ‘Young man, I can see you doing great things. I hope you come to the assembly.’ And I had no clue who he was, and I didn’t go to the assembly. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I spent a lot of time wondering how different my life would have turned, how much heartache I would have saved my parents and myself, if I did end up going to the assembly and made better decisions. But my life is a testament of not giving up and constantly improving oneself. This idea of suiting up and trying to be greater than you’d ever been is something I feel I’m a testament of, because when he passed away in 2012, that’s when I decided to actually get my university degree, to make better for myself — so for me, it’s a full circle to be able to be the person to pay homage to this great man.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPgEtfLFXg269tI8fIzRUw0gmHgHdB-5oaHaILOMbzTsWPQ4lGWpOa7UU6UW5LsCCVIQMPElve6uy-f1aFlgcGSMRGU7FRZAmwE3pa3RSv3qY0_LweVNzhRItuSnVVE7t1L9vAL2c638axtVH0xed2pnNSuruZ6UCj2Q2yA4y7mHNjVKK8rMQ3fYrt_wO/s4032/Lincoln%20Alexander%20Bust.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPgEtfLFXg269tI8fIzRUw0gmHgHdB-5oaHaILOMbzTsWPQ4lGWpOa7UU6UW5LsCCVIQMPElve6uy-f1aFlgcGSMRGU7FRZAmwE3pa3RSv3qY0_LweVNzhRItuSnVVE7t1L9vAL2c638axtVH0xed2pnNSuruZ6UCj2Q2yA4y7mHNjVKK8rMQ3fYrt_wO/w480-h640/Lincoln%20Alexander%20Bust.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The commemorative bust of Lincoln Alexander that was unveiled at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario on January 21, 2024, Lincoln Alexander Day</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">VerCetty is encouraging visitors to the Ontario Legislature to spend time with the piece, and he wants people to read Alexander’s memoir titled “Go to School, You’re a Little Black Boy” The Honourable Lincoln M. Alexander, written with Herb Shoveller.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">On January 21, 2024, on what would have been the 102<sup>nd</sup> birthday of Lincoln Alexander — and known nationally as Lincoln Alexander Day, since 2015, and celebrated in Ontario from 2013 — an unveiling ceremony was held at Queen’s Park to reveal the commemorative bust to Ontarians.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Starting with a procession of drummers, dancer, speakers and presenters, the afternoon was led by emcee and CBC TV anchor Dwight Drummond with the Canadian anthem sung by Coco LaRain, greetings from Ted Arnott, Speaker of the Ontario Legislative Assembly; Greg Fergus, Speaker of the House of Commons; Charmaine Williams, MPP for Brampton Centre and Associate Minister of Women’s and Social Economic Opportunity; Jill Andrew, MPP for Toronto-St. Paul’s and Ontario NDP Culture Critic and Women’s Issue Critic for the Official Opposition; Andrea Hazell, Liberal MPP for Scarborough-Guildwood; Mike Schreiner, MPP for Guelph and Leader of the Green Party of Ontario; and Patricia Barnes, MPP for Ajax, who brought greetings on behalf of Premier Doug Ford.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Arnot reminisced that Alexander had timeless values that he lived by while he was the lieutenant governor of Ontario and was someone regal and down-to-earth. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Williams described the former MP and resident of Hamilton as a great individual and a true public servant. Andrew underscored the value of artists and complimented VerCetty on the creation of the bust. She met the late vice-regal in her youth and remembered feeling seen by him when he accepted her greeting. Andrew spoke of the importance of the visual representation of the bust in the legislature.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha6NhN3kEbdUFOjI2RWVtdGMQQpHo6SeOb7nvOwqvYsbsNUNgNSviJQlQl-soqFUCt5yLi_IEwOfVrUZHc1kAUCv1DLVA8J4uiuKIekqLyVT6LdUSwGZmZozlH1_w9O-P_7qjiWrmCDovETjHS5_vMvGdcoQbRfnvhYhYDIM2S0e7VHK__ylHbgZaGIZni/s4032/Linc%20Bust%20Committee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha6NhN3kEbdUFOjI2RWVtdGMQQpHo6SeOb7nvOwqvYsbsNUNgNSviJQlQl-soqFUCt5yLi_IEwOfVrUZHc1kAUCv1DLVA8J4uiuKIekqLyVT6LdUSwGZmZozlH1_w9O-P_7qjiWrmCDovETjHS5_vMvGdcoQbRfnvhYhYDIM2S0e7VHK__ylHbgZaGIZni/w480-h640/Linc%20Bust%20Committee.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosemary Sadlier, Chair of the LINC Bust Committee at the lectern. Behind her from left to right are other committee members: Fazela Haniff, Ingrid Wilson and Tusma Sulieman</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Rosemary Sadlier, Chair of the LINC Bust Committee, said the unveiling ceremony was the culmination of ten years of work to see it come to fruition that day. She was delighted that Alexander’s family was onboard from the beginning. Sadlier underscored the importance of honouring the past and its connection to the present and future. She thanked the partner sponsors, Licensed to Learn, Black Opportunity Fund, and RBC for their support.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Nabil Ali, Chief Operations Officer, Licensed to Learn (L2L), said visiting the Linc bust will become a key component of their public educational tour program.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Mark Beckles, Vice President, Social Impact and Innovation, RBC, said when he was planning to run as a candidate for the Ontario Progressive Conservative Party in 2007, he met with Alexander who gifted his sons, William and Warren, with two copies of his memoir — something that had a transformative impact on their education.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Craig Wellington, Executive Director, Black Opportunity Fund, said Alexander challenged Canadians to be great and “all of us individually to be great.” Quoting African American activist and artist Paul Robeson, he described engaging in the installation of the Linc bust as a radical act, an act of revolution, which was also challenging the culture of the legislative building.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Black children will see themselves reflected in this hall,” he said, before relating how 14 years ago he successfully spearheaded a campaign to have Chapters bookstore properly catalogue Alexander’s memoir. He had been to a few locations in search of the book and eventually realized that they had filed it “under “local interest/travel” along with travel maps and atlases, instead of in the “Canadian Biography” or “biography” sections and was only available in Ontario locations and online.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1sv3zVTeMCzJN0QYT-S2wzJxUukpABDmQSFaO69ZVWN8c5Msm2qIPgnjCJifOy62JufAGn0ULHLymTq7gj7t6RKlsHd9ZZXrpYGlEOKorPzwvHEZ4M2vpVbhBeMKrWLWgZTi2cXpQL2Z7Xt_A3ves7eoS-h2zf1smXzCFYQUcU5mKUyUc-v1uTUVyFHaR/s4032/Craig%20Wellington.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1sv3zVTeMCzJN0QYT-S2wzJxUukpABDmQSFaO69ZVWN8c5Msm2qIPgnjCJifOy62JufAGn0ULHLymTq7gj7t6RKlsHd9ZZXrpYGlEOKorPzwvHEZ4M2vpVbhBeMKrWLWgZTi2cXpQL2Z7Xt_A3ves7eoS-h2zf1smXzCFYQUcU5mKUyUc-v1uTUVyFHaR/w480-h640/Craig%20Wellington.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Craig Wellington, Executive Director of the Black Opportunity Fund</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Pinball Clemons said Alexander was a gift to humanity and had a great head and a great heart.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Speaking on behalf of the family, Erika Alexander, granddaughter of Lincoln Alexander, said after listening to the previous speakers she realized that the words “big shot” and “movers and shakers” were frequently used by him. She noted that he was deliberate, resilient and personal. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Erika said in 1985 when her grandfather was appointed Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, she was two years old, and it was her first time stepping into Queen’s Park. She thanked the Linc Bust Committee and congratulated VerCetty for the research and care he took in creating the bust of Linc. She also thanked Marni Beal-Alexander for being a companion to her grandfather in his later years.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I’m very proud that this is happening; I’m proud for my family. I’m very proud of the committee for putting all this effort in for the past few years and really pushing to get something so honourable, such as a bust, and especially being the first Black figure in Queen’s Park — that really aligns with the trajectory of my grandfather’s life and the milestones that he made,” said Erika, noting that as people walk through Queen’s Park they will see a face that looks like someone they know or someone in their family.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBdDVxfjVEt6xrlIi57P0W_r_XB0E492hLYWf9fEmevowkLEyvJEUdR2qTDBxSKGCCxH5P2wO18Fnolvr_kAoM2Cod1T_507CYllHXKsVDrmrZfP9TcNeJtYSI1wSKkzKY5fOyYxjx6TDdFO6GFcf5dB6UaXZ3J0BWeNIWlFjMEUBsC_5agG4Q2OHBHAtf/s4032/Erika%20and%20Marissa%20Alexander.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBdDVxfjVEt6xrlIi57P0W_r_XB0E492hLYWf9fEmevowkLEyvJEUdR2qTDBxSKGCCxH5P2wO18Fnolvr_kAoM2Cod1T_507CYllHXKsVDrmrZfP9TcNeJtYSI1wSKkzKY5fOyYxjx6TDdFO6GFcf5dB6UaXZ3J0BWeNIWlFjMEUBsC_5agG4Q2OHBHAtf/w480-h640/Erika%20and%20Marissa%20Alexander.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Granddaughters of Lincoln Alexander: Erika Alexander, left, and Marissa Alexander, right, unveiling the bust of their grandfather at Queen's Park</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The unveiling of the Linc Bust was done by Erika and her sister, Marissa Alexander.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Lincoln Alexander was elected to the House of Commons as MP for Hamilton West in 1968 and served as the federal minister of labour in 1979. From 1985 to 1991, he was the lieutenant governor of Ontario, and became the sixth and longest-serving chancellor of the University of Guelph from 1991 to 2007. In 2006, Alexander wrote his memoir.</span><div><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivw6GTiQt4_WO1Y_3qxSvJzKTrh9zdJm0cr9ZX7x5th3Vr-rYc2XQMGoBEQPdPqP83JXdOEt7S8W_5KpTpBqWnifw753J7lMLc8L_44LiHjM-1NULyE25XNaPEv6peQHlTDSCkN9AHcoDW6PPI24T57ZqWcDG7HolEGg42_JOuaY6VMGpjz5bQiEbW3ddo/s4032/Gervan%20Fearon%20and%20Dwayne%20Morgan1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivw6GTiQt4_WO1Y_3qxSvJzKTrh9zdJm0cr9ZX7x5th3Vr-rYc2XQMGoBEQPdPqP83JXdOEt7S8W_5KpTpBqWnifw753J7lMLc8L_44LiHjM-1NULyE25XNaPEv6peQHlTDSCkN9AHcoDW6PPI24T57ZqWcDG7HolEGg42_JOuaY6VMGpjz5bQiEbW3ddo/w480-h640/Gervan%20Fearon%20and%20Dwayne%20Morgan1.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr. Gervan Fearon, President of George Brown College, and Canadian spoken word artist Dwayne Morgan at a reception held after the unveiling ceremony at Queen's Park</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div></div>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-12699433299304936562024-01-16T04:06:00.000-08:002024-01-16T04:09:00.770-08:00Some Black History Month 2024 Events in the Greater Toronto Area<p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Compiled by Neil Armstrong</span></b></p><p><b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b></b></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJv76mdxW8QHxWXH6SgOxF3O0mrWU5Xjk3h8p-nrwTw9lgcPBP5th41cke92UnhRFfFXbOlLSNRPUIasXvX3Vp4OnjY5KqH4dl5nrnTPeloKnerU5z96KXPIN18uskcTE-HIab9ulxCU30s3oba2haQ3v5gHvY2B93e_JcVMFufBwWk1EPtSJ0g1sbS2ml/s4032/Black%20Activist,%20Scientist,%20Icon.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJv76mdxW8QHxWXH6SgOxF3O0mrWU5Xjk3h8p-nrwTw9lgcPBP5th41cke92UnhRFfFXbOlLSNRPUIasXvX3Vp4OnjY5KqH4dl5nrnTPeloKnerU5z96KXPIN18uskcTE-HIab9ulxCU30s3oba2haQ3v5gHvY2B93e_JcVMFufBwWk1EPtSJ0g1sbS2ml/w480-h640/Black%20Activist,%20Scientist,%20Icon.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blackhurst Cultural Centre in collaboration with Nimbus Publishing present the launch of "Black Activist, Scientist, Icon," The autobiography of Dr. Howard D. McCurdy with George Elliott Clarke, at Blackhurst Cultural Centre, 777-779 Bathurst St., Toronto, on Saturday, January 27, 2024, 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.</td></tr></tbody></table><b><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Sunday, January 28<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">12:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Ontario Black History Society Black History Month Kick-Off Brunch<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Beanfield Centre, 105 Princes’ Blvd., Toronto<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Theme: The Decade Ends But We Are United Forever<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The UN Int’l Decade for People of African Descent comes to an end in 2024 but the work continues.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Keynote speaker: Jay Pitter, MES<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Award-winning Placemaker & Author, Adjunct Urban Planning Professor, University of Waterloo<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Tickets available at Eventbrite.ca<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6Z7zSYVSv8o2cibnZTRbbqROB1x8K8HQ2ciUzwLyDeG03HjGdOUam_QWxibUUZpyUCWIfbqJFGfkRGqynofhdPYoHnljWw5CId8mRdqc3XtcJD3PbQk22euMxrfO802lqCQfvXDFtitbQDAUKW8Kaz_IUHO5HD_vqQU8VyHypyo1eyrRahGF-0VO4Iro/s1080/OBHS%2036%20Anniversary%20Fundraiser.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6Z7zSYVSv8o2cibnZTRbbqROB1x8K8HQ2ciUzwLyDeG03HjGdOUam_QWxibUUZpyUCWIfbqJFGfkRGqynofhdPYoHnljWw5CId8mRdqc3XtcJD3PbQk22euMxrfO802lqCQfvXDFtitbQDAUKW8Kaz_IUHO5HD_vqQU8VyHypyo1eyrRahGF-0VO4Iro/w640-h640/OBHS%2036%20Anniversary%20Fundraiser.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">February 1-29<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Harbourfront Centre’s<b> KUUMBA, </b>Toronto’s largest and longest-running Black Futures Month festival, embracing the rich tapestry of culture, diversity and creativity through a month-long celebration of Black cultural programming. Presented by TD Bank Group.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><a href="https://harbourfrontcentre.com/series/kuumba/" style="color: #954f72;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">https://harbourfrontcentre.com/series/kuumba/</span></a><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Friday, February 2<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">United Way Greater Toronto and the Federation of Black Canadians’ Black Leadership & Recognition Breakfast Event<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Celebrating the International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Theme: <b>Beyond the Decade: Empowering the Next Generation<o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Four Points by Sheraton Toronto Airport <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">6257 Airport Road, Mississauga, ON<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Tickets: $75 and are available until January 23, 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Check Eventbrite for details.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Saturday, February 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Jean Augustine Centre’s 9<sup>th</sup> annual Black History Month Celebration<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive, Etobicoke<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><a href="http://tinyurl.com/jacbhmcelebration" style="color: #954f72;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">http://tinyurl.com/jacbhmcelebration</span></a><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Sunday, February 4<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Iron Sharpens Iron – Black Excellence 365 Brunch”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">DR.ABC Teachable Moments<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">55 Barber Greene #1 Toronto<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Check Eventbrite for details<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Wednesday, February 7<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Jean Augustine Chair Black History Month Event – <b>Word, Sound, Power: Black Artistic Expression<o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Tribute Communities Recital Hall Accolade East Building, York University<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Pre-Event Reception at 5:30 p.m. (CIBC Lounge, Accolade East Building)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Performances: 6:30-8:30 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Thursday, February 8<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Blackhurst Cultural Centre presents <b>African Diasporic Histories and World Histories with Dr. Harcourt Fuller<o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. – The Conversation at Randolph College for the Performing Arts, 736 Bathurst St.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">8:00 p.m. – Reception at Blackhurst Cultural Centre, 777 Bathurst St., Toronto.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Dr. Harcourt Fuller is a historian at Georgia State University and creator of the traveling museum <b>“Black Money Exhibit: World Currencies featuring African & African Diasporic Histories and Cultures.”<o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">A free event. Register at Eventbrite<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiKB-37rqNBW7scmhRbN9dzBKt-bGSLcHVV6SmVTbleipnFZYzSiWPvAoIYXqcF7BUk4kkmIi1wJWlQQs_WayEU6K7nTJJqXIyresY-ZzmC2X-fwP1cDd0_FdQhlnfWvsSJ8Bv1OpHBUaziK-OKI2QySqCohCEyxD0mnz5CrHluZzC9E860ZF6TFe5JH8/s1350/News%20for%20the%20People%20Version%201%20Image%20-%20Updated%20links.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiKB-37rqNBW7scmhRbN9dzBKt-bGSLcHVV6SmVTbleipnFZYzSiWPvAoIYXqcF7BUk4kkmIi1wJWlQQs_WayEU6K7nTJJqXIyresY-ZzmC2X-fwP1cDd0_FdQhlnfWvsSJ8Bv1OpHBUaziK-OKI2QySqCohCEyxD0mnz5CrHluZzC9E860ZF6TFe5JH8/w512-h640/News%20for%20the%20People%20Version%201%20Image%20-%20Updated%20links.png" width="512" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Friday, February 9<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">2:00-4:00 p.m. EST<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Department of History, University of Toronto presents <b>News for the People virtual webinar discussion<o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Please register by Monday, February 5 at </span><a href="http://tinyurl.com/5s3t4s7y" style="color: #954f72;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">http://tinyurl.com/5s3t4s7y</span></a><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Sunday, February 11<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The Jamaican Canadian Association Annual Boonoonoonos Brunch<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Theme: Black Resistance<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">995 Arrow Road<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Toronto, ON<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Tickets: $65<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Friday, February 16<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">8:30 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Caliban Arts Theatre<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">50<sup>th</sup> Anniversary Concert of Chicago’s</span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> <b>Ethnic Heritage Ensemble Live<o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The Redwood Theatre<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">1300 Gerrard St. East (Greenwood)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Tickets: $45 Early Bird (Until January 19), $50 Adv., $60 Door<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Door opens at 8:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjopO_c6obg_vp-XbNqcSt03Yb_mQoIhyx23adn_Si0LfkuaQOPl3o9r7bhJ6CnIwRC0YRqDt1A1uul8m5PA2ZVItkhQUodgRl4YafSccjynbT-M2Hp-j9etBVguwS6AVaMDJXhVQ8zUj5TEJULQccH1dypxcWNYHtLTrw2o-_Ynno6EDCBds6k3504amgF/s1920/Flavours%20&%20Vibes.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1081" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjopO_c6obg_vp-XbNqcSt03Yb_mQoIhyx23adn_Si0LfkuaQOPl3o9r7bhJ6CnIwRC0YRqDt1A1uul8m5PA2ZVItkhQUodgRl4YafSccjynbT-M2Hp-j9etBVguwS6AVaMDJXhVQ8zUj5TEJULQccH1dypxcWNYHtLTrw2o-_Ynno6EDCBds6k3504amgF/w360-h640/Flavours%20&%20Vibes.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Thursday, February 22<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Brampton On Stage and Jones & Jones present “Flavours & Vibes: The Peace. Love. Unity Edition”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Featuring Jesse Royal, The Human Rights, Omega Mighty, Kairo McLean, Joshua Lucas<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The Rose, 1 Theatre Lane, Brampton<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Pre-show Mix N Mingle, 7:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Showtime, 8:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Hosted by MC Bonde<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Saturday, February 24<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">RBC Black Diamond Ball<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Theme: <b>A Tribute to You<o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">6:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Fairmont Royal York<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">100 Front St. W., Toronto<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Check Eventbrite for details.<o:p></o:p></span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-31553630468207714212024-01-06T03:45:00.000-08:002024-01-06T03:45:40.262-08:00Prominent Black Leaders Appointed to the Order of Canada<p><strong style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;">By Neil Armstrong</span></strong></p><p><strong style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></strong></p><p><strong style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></strong></p><p><strong style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUB77LXOx59IlSXOeRavy8VXMgxJ2aJCSEnBDmkh_bBLuJsNRGT4TYcmPtlfk4mgVldo6UVxSuhxilDqStrY3pyn6BkF4BN5sDHq-F1xq3wtUKmkLmEzJQN_-DQqwgx6l0g1JgKkqmkI7EIUqZMKSvEG07xR32rzrlFRJB6BvcfjYCle28_urqyODERTy3/s400/debbie-douglas-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUB77LXOx59IlSXOeRavy8VXMgxJ2aJCSEnBDmkh_bBLuJsNRGT4TYcmPtlfk4mgVldo6UVxSuhxilDqStrY3pyn6BkF4BN5sDHq-F1xq3wtUKmkLmEzJQN_-DQqwgx6l0g1JgKkqmkI7EIUqZMKSvEG07xR32rzrlFRJB6BvcfjYCle28_urqyODERTy3/w640-h640/debbie-douglas-1.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Debbie Douglas, Executive Director of the Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI)</td></tr></tbody></table></strong><strong style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;"></span></strong></p><p><strong style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><strong style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></strong></strong></p><strong style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">A policy expert and community activist, a veteran public health advocate, and two historians from Ontario’s Black communities are among the 78 Canadians recently appointed to the Order of Canada by Governor General Mary Simon.</strong><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><strong><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;"> </span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><strong><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;">Debbie Douglas is the executive director of the Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI)</span></strong><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> and is often called upon by governments to share her expertise.</span><strong><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;"> Her work entails highlighting issues of equity, antiracism, gender, economic class and sexual orientation. She has promoted the creation of safe, welcoming spaces within the settlement and integration sector.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><strong><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;"> </span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><strong><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;">Douglas’s appointment is in recognition of her work — “</span></strong><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">for advancing principles of equity and inclusion in the Canadian immigration system as a leading policy expert and community activist.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I don’t want to pretend that my work in any progressive movement has to do with me only. It’s always a collective effort, and so I think it provides a bigger platform to be able to raise some of these issues and to put some of them on the public agenda — issues of migration and race, and migration and sexual orientation,” says Douglas who was born in Grenada and immigrated to Canada in her childhood.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">She says the appointment is also important for her and other Black women leaders, “who are often not recognized for the work that we do as we continue to toil in various communities and in various ways to try and make this place where we live a better place, with so much systemic issues around.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Douglas will continue to raise issues such as the regularization of status, the systemic racism that exists in the immigration system — for example, families from Africa are overly DNA tested, she said —and it allows her and colleagues to pay attention to what’s happening with refugee claimants, especially with queer refugees, but also other refugees coming from the continent.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">She believes that it is because OCASI, Black community churches and other faith groups, and Black organizations have stepped up in a way that has never been seen before on the African refugee issue why there is some response from the federal government to what’s happening in Sudan with the recent announcement that it will provide a family sponsorship program for Sudanese. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">In December, Marc Miller, minister of immigration, refugees and citizenship, announced a new family-based humanitarian pathway for Sudanese and non-Sudanese nationals who resided in Sudan when the conflict began on April 15, 2023, so they can reunite on a permanent basis with their family in Canada.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The government said these actions build</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> on temporary immigration measures</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">already in place for Sudanese temporary residents in Canada who may be unable to return home due to the situation in their country, and for family members of Canadians and permanent residents who fled Sudan and came to Canada before July 15, 2023.</span><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Still need the federal government to step up in a big way, in terms of refugee claimants’ shelter and housing, in terms of supporting the municipalities where they are located, but also in funding things like a reception centre. They’ve put some money into and found a space in Peel Region — the $7M is not enough because we know there are hundreds and hundreds of refugee claimants who are in Ontario, some were relocated from Quebec, but many others have arrived, in the last year, through Pearson,” said Douglas.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The OCASI executive director said they will continue to see people looking for safety as governments in some countries, including Uganda, Kenya and Ghana, implement draconian laws that persecute people based on their sexual orientation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“We have got to ensure that the same reception that we gave to Ukrainians in the war is the same reception that we’re giving to people in Sudan where there is a budding civil war, and people from Congo where unrest has been going on forever.”</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;">For many years, Douglas worked in frontline, management and executive positions with community-based service agencies. As a management consultant, she worked both with Non-Governmental Organizations and public institutions on organizational development and change.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;">She was a member of the provinces’ Expert Panel on Immigration which published the report, Routes to Success, and led to the province’s first immigration legislation (2015); sat as a member of the provincial government’s Income Security Reform Working Group (2018); a member of the Immigration and Refugee Advisory Committee of Legal Aid Ontario and the federal government’s National Settlement Council. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Douglas was the co-founder of Zami, a political and support group for LGBTI Black and Caribbean people in the early 1980s in Toronto. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;">She is the recipient of several awards including the Women of Distinction from YWCA Toronto (2004), and the Urban Alliance on Race Relations Anti-Racism Award (2014), among others.</span><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf4hR9n6nV5oRifQdq1-mCCjSpHJCZxA_0xepmltFzhfA4reOdeKANbPLzBqWat09j0yp7cwtLUE_fKYata6hM5CoJ10UsBwcqKh2scMwmI12bb0jQmQh16fOBna-eMdF07h_oVLpZ92l7eG42nLXDiZhxgBCeBeppuWtRvP8VJyha2E0_KztAS5HzUrCJ/s2190/EJG_9290.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1460" data-original-width="2190" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf4hR9n6nV5oRifQdq1-mCCjSpHJCZxA_0xepmltFzhfA4reOdeKANbPLzBqWat09j0yp7cwtLUE_fKYata6hM5CoJ10UsBwcqKh2scMwmI12bb0jQmQh16fOBna-eMdF07h_oVLpZ92l7eG42nLXDiZhxgBCeBeppuWtRvP8VJyha2E0_KztAS5HzUrCJ/w640-h426/EJG_9290.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lillie Johnson with Margaret Williams who helped with the writing of Johnson's memoir, "My Dream"</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="color: #141412; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><strong><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;"> </span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><strong><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;">Lillie Johnson, who is 101 years old, was invested into the Order of Canada</span></strong><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> for<span style="background: white;"> “her long-time dedication to improving public health within the Black community, notably through the creation of the Sickle Cell Association of Ontario.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She was born on March 16, 1922, in St. Ann, Jamaica and after completing her education at Wolmer’s High School for Girls and at Shortwood Teachers’ College she worked as a teacher in Jamaica. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Johnson eventually left to study nursing in England in December 1950, arriving in January 1951 and travelled to Edinburgh, Scotland to start her training.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">After completing her studies in Britain, Johnson returned to Jamaica where she worked at the University College of the West Indies Hospital in Kingston. From there she went to New Jersey in the United States in 1958 to work at the Beth Israel Hospital in Newark.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Johnson travelled by train from New York, where she visited family, to Canada in August 1960.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #181817; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #181817; font-family: Cambria, serif;">A strong advocate for education about sickle cell disease, Johnson founded the Sickle Cell Association of Ontario </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">in 1981. In 2011, she was invested into the Order of Ontario, the province’s highest honour, for her work with the organization.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #201f1e; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Karen Flynn, </span><span style="background: white; color: #111111; font-family: Cambria, serif;">an associate professor in the Department of Gender and Women’s Studies and the Department of African-American Studies Program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, is the author of</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> “<span style="color: #201f1e;">Moving Beyond Borders: A History of Black Canadian and Caribbean Women in the Diaspora,” which features Johnson on the cover. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #201f1e; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She praised Johnson’s leadership, initiative, dedication, and advocacy around sickle cell. During the 1960s and 1970s, Johnson visited many patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), a life-threatening condition characterized by severe, unpredictable painful episodes and complications that can limit daily activities and cause disability. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #201f1e; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Former president of the Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA), Adaoma Patterson, said Johnson </span><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;">has been a pillar of the Black and Jamaican Canadian community in Toronto for many decades. “She has been a steadfast champion of public health, healthcare and sickle cell disease, in particular, creating awareness, supporting individuals and families dealing with disease, and pushing elected officials and the medical community to take it seriously.”<span style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVqWj3O702OjJcw-vamGC2zRQKFdSwV5Ad8upVxTNEMtCbQ3mhammQ8B6qj1tddTku2p9IUXQ31qX2zIvifRips4N0gFckkE10PCYtsBXPpt3i5Jn4tDqVkqmk55dzqJJ18l483DLAkroc7nCQF-YGmsRa0vPwJx30aBpVCjHGhWnjfV6JA3_NU9vB4Pje/s1920/Lillie%20Johnson&Karen%20Flynn.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVqWj3O702OjJcw-vamGC2zRQKFdSwV5Ad8upVxTNEMtCbQ3mhammQ8B6qj1tddTku2p9IUXQ31qX2zIvifRips4N0gFckkE10PCYtsBXPpt3i5Jn4tDqVkqmk55dzqJJ18l483DLAkroc7nCQF-YGmsRa0vPwJx30aBpVCjHGhWnjfV6JA3_NU9vB4Pje/w640-h360/Lillie%20Johnson&Karen%20Flynn.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lillie Johnson and Professor Karen Flynn at the launch of "Moving Beyond Borders: A History of Black Canadian and Caribbean Women in the Diaspora" written by Flynn which has a photo of Johnson on the cover</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 12pt 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Shannon Beth Prince and Bryan Earl Prince were appointed for their “commitment to the documentation, preservation and celebration of Black Canadian history, particularly the Underground Railroad in southwestern Ontario.”<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 7.5pt 0cm;"><span style="color: #3e474c; font-family: Cambria, serif;">After 25 years as the curator of the Buxton National Historic Site & Museum in Chatham-Kent, Ontario, Shannon Prince retired in December 2023. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 7.5pt 0cm;"><span style="color: #3e474c; font-family: Cambria, serif;">She is also a historical storyteller and participates in re-enactments which bring the history of Buxton and the Underground Railroad to life for many groups. Being a 6th generation descendant of the early fugitive families that came to Canada for freedom and opportunity, she brings an insight, respect and love for Canadian heritage. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 7.5pt 0cm;"><span style="color: #424243; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Bryan Prince<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: white;"> </span></span><span style="background: white;">is a descendent of enslaved people who came to Canada prior to the American Civil War. He is a farmer with a profound interest in the history of the Underground Railroad – particularly in the Canadian involvement. He has spent countless hours researching, writing, and lecturing on this topic over a period of nearly 25 years. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 12pt 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I greatly value the opportunity to celebrate individuals whose perseverance, ingenuity and community spirit have benefited Canadians throughout the country. As governor general, I have seen first-hand that our communities are rich in both excellence and diversity, which we need to do our utmost to recognize. I encourage each of us to become catalysts for the change we want to see in the Canadian Honours System by nominating individuals whose exceptional accomplishments may have gone unrecognized through the years,” said Governor General Mary Simon.<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 12pt 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Every year since its creation in 1967, the ranks of the Order of Canada have been enriched by the appointment of new members whose contributions reverberate in communities across the country and beyond. Through their exemplary commitment, they inspire and challenge us to join them in making Canada a better country, notes a media release.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The Order of Canada is one of the country’s highest honours. It recognizes people across all sectors of society who have made extraordinary and sustained contributions to our nation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The motto of the Order, DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM, translates to “They desire a better country.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Appointments are made by the governor general on the recommendation of the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Appointees will be invited to an investiture ceremony at a later date to receive their insignia. The dates of these ceremonies will be announced in due course. Non-Canadians are eligible for an honorary appointment to the Order if their contributions have brought benefit or honour to Canadians or to Canada.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 7.5pt 0cm;"><span style="color: #3e474c; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><strong><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-weight: normal;"> </span></strong></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-50659010492908424082023-12-19T03:19:00.000-08:002023-12-19T13:42:44.536-08:00Toronto Restaurateur Merrick Aries Eulogized as Bringing Light into the Lives of Others<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12Z02V2BFwx2mA-JWImOAkXDew9Zs0Ghj7L7EmDUxM5Osgz1ykSQrnRj7PmFe1cZ-wd1X5Y3KmnrJmL0VO9bmDHsJBZBjyvVNK1zdQrZsL1OVaSJkVx89NNAIQ5SA6BZelCdhHLLYP8BOe42ZHNeU9kCo__uJpMFxVrEjiMowKkUjlLfITNyp8SqnCMt9/s8256/Owen%20wearing%20a%20mask%20in%20uniform.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5504" data-original-width="8256" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12Z02V2BFwx2mA-JWImOAkXDew9Zs0Ghj7L7EmDUxM5Osgz1ykSQrnRj7PmFe1cZ-wd1X5Y3KmnrJmL0VO9bmDHsJBZBjyvVNK1zdQrZsL1OVaSJkVx89NNAIQ5SA6BZelCdhHLLYP8BOe42ZHNeU9kCo__uJpMFxVrEjiMowKkUjlLfITNyp8SqnCMt9/w640-h426/Owen%20wearing%20a%20mask%20in%20uniform.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Merrick Aries, the late co-owner of The Diner's Corner restaurant in Toronto, Canada</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Popular Jamaican Canadian restaurateur and chef, Merrick Orlando Aries, was eulogized as someone who bridged differences and saw the good in others.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">A thanksgiving service was held at the St. Andrew Parish Church in Kingston, Jamaica, on December 14 — exactly two months after he visited his homeland to attend the funeral of a relative and seven weeks after his body was found in bushes in Salt River, Clarendon on October 24. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">According to media reports, homicide detectives theorized that Aries — the owner of The Diner’s Corner, a Jamaican restaurant on Yonge Street in Toronto, who lived in Ajax, Ontario, and owned a home in St. Andrew — was lured to the area where he was robbed and fatally shot.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Born Owen Anthony Grant on January 11, 1980, to mother, Lilieth Henry, and father, Anthony Grant, at the Buff Bay Hospital in Portland, he lived in the community of Riversdale with his parents and was brother to siblings Nicole Henry, Kadian Smith, Gregory and Clement Grant, and Michelle and Marcia who were like sisters to him. He would later change his name.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">As a student at Mount Olivet Infant and Mount Hermon All Age schools, he excelled in various subjects and had a passion for cooking which resulted in his mother enrolling him in the HEART Trust Vocational Training Centre in Above Rocks, St. Catherine. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">It was there that his family said he was moulded to become an exceptional chef and baker who would practise at home in the nights whatever he was taught earlier in the day at the academy. His baking of bread and sweet potato puddings was a joy of his mother and sisters who became his taste testers. Soon he was known as the community baker whose gizzadas, coconut drops, cakes and puddings were in demand, said his sister, Nicole Henry.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">His leadership abilities were enhanced at Mt. Olivet A.M.E. Church where he was a member of the choir and president of the youth department, and in the community as a member of the Riversdale Police Youth Club.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">With his eyes set on Kingston and expanding his horizon, Aries moved from Riversdale to the capital city where he worked in the fast-food industry and other businesses. While there, he enrolled in the University of the West Indies and subsequently left for Canada to pursue his dreams at the age of 21.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The beloved restaurant owner was described as bringing light into the lives of his family, of being kind and generous, and as someone who had a warm and welcoming smile and a great sense of humor. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8o53q-nI33VGMrAZ0Tjn8r0pSa_kx6ND0Q9bPpIsqHSi9InLV_38-BsAxc-FSX6nSzqyXPqEYbyL9do0NLN9hkpZvBnL9X9Ykjcr_3RHYSPL-BEa_XdBuKIi875jrTI-_-d7NkNq48sV1NJb081jwL6TOzsOpP-idBzwMH03py0YNmt74jN0pnBrqj1eg/s960/Owen%20serving%20Junior%20Harrison%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8o53q-nI33VGMrAZ0Tjn8r0pSa_kx6ND0Q9bPpIsqHSi9InLV_38-BsAxc-FSX6nSzqyXPqEYbyL9do0NLN9hkpZvBnL9X9Ykjcr_3RHYSPL-BEa_XdBuKIi875jrTI-_-d7NkNq48sV1NJb081jwL6TOzsOpP-idBzwMH03py0YNmt74jN0pnBrqj1eg/w480-h640/Owen%20serving%20Junior%20Harrison%20(1).JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Neil Armstrong Merrick Aries serving customer, Junior Harrison, at The Diner's Corner</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Delivering the second part of the eulogy on behalf of Antovin Aries and Ashleh Aries, Merrick’s family in Canada, Reverend Aina-Nia Ayo’dele, who flew there from Toronto, said Merrick was a genius with his hands. “It was with his hands and his heart that he demonstrated his love for his family and friends over the 22 years that he lived in Canada. He was very giving, sociable, talented, resourceful, entrepreneurial — and meticulous, that’s when we saw how much of a perfectionist he was. He would redo things until they met his high standards.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Ayo’dele said it was not surprising that at the age of 21 he migrated to Canada in the summer of 2001 in search of a better future. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“That search saw him taking on various jobs to survive and thrive — he worked in retail at Walmart, Banana Republic and Eddie Bauer stores, CIBC in the credit card department, and eventually with Rogers Communications where he became a customer service agent and within a few months received a promotion. These jobs were important to him and, luckily, he had friends who supported him when he experienced hardship. But his true love was really in the culinary arts where he used his hands and heart to craft delicious Jamaican cuisines and cakes — and won over many friends and customers. You could easily feel the love coming from whatever he prepared for you to eat — the presentation of it was also important to him.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">When Merrick became a father to Ashleh, who is now 12, he was very proud and took her to live with him at only seven months old. He didn’t have daycare available so he structured his days that he could work from home while still associated with Rogers Communications, earn a living, and take care of her himself. Ashleh was the apple of his eye, and friends and family would often hear about her accomplishments in conversations with him. Their father-daughter relationship was strong and although he is no longer physically here, the loving and long-lasting memories of him will remain with her for years to come, Ayo’dele said. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She said the day Merrick and his brother, Antovin, opened their restaurant, The Diner’s Corner, on St. Nicholas St. in Toronto in the summer of 2016 was quite an achievement, but it was also a bittersweet moment. Before acquiring the restaurant, they would entertain at home with his cooking and baking delights, baked and sold to customers, and did catering sometimes. When the opportunity arose for him to own a restaurant, he seized it. The early years were tough, but he persevered and created a niche for his culinary skills and hospitality in a place that was his. The pride of being an entrepreneur surpassed the days when the restaurant only made a couple hundred dollars. Their introduction of a Sunday Brunch and seeing how customers gravitated to it brought him so much joy.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Creating your own wealth was important to Merrick and he did everything he could to ensure that he would succeed as a restauranteur. That included the heavy lifting of cleaning floors, scrubbing walls and kitchen grills, painting, repairing, renovating, assembling furniture and artwork, building a patio at the St. Nicholas St. location, and at the present address of the restaurant, participating in the CaféTO Program which provided restaurants and bars in Toronto with the opportunity to access public space and expand their outdoor dining space through sidewalk cafés, curb lane cafés or patios on private property.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“With the acquisition of The Diner’s Corner food truck, they participated in many of the significant cultural events in the city — Toronto Caribbean Carnival or “Caribana” as many Torontonians and visitors still call it, Blockorama, Afrofest, Blockobana, and other festivals. Merrick understood and embraced Canada’s multiculturalism in embracing and serving his customers.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgewj8ti6BcE9Bz5taXWEc3_PwMwVKYwUkGGmtdtgLKOrrJsHTt67DpUlw_KbD4Te-F7l7XFV2cXmpDUxO0QLu14ZWZWhCzoOcRAnoKWqRVhzgYcKddOCIFZXkucInSBrTM8GU-yMqJmjMBd9aLhpl1cv-tZp1fpGwlHECpBcd1cU5hUCHD9qX39PJe6p2/s960/Owen%20at%20Blockorama.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgewj8ti6BcE9Bz5taXWEc3_PwMwVKYwUkGGmtdtgLKOrrJsHTt67DpUlw_KbD4Te-F7l7XFV2cXmpDUxO0QLu14ZWZWhCzoOcRAnoKWqRVhzgYcKddOCIFZXkucInSBrTM8GU-yMqJmjMBd9aLhpl1cv-tZp1fpGwlHECpBcd1cU5hUCHD9qX39PJe6p2/w640-h480/Owen%20at%20Blockorama.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Neil Armstrong Merrick Aries at the annual Blockorama in Toronto, Canada</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIczA0Lf6GJF9Gwm8w8Vc2u0e4umRm7b0YTcyXCvQ9oQuIuIXPhUz0ydr3lKhJIaqWFnlvE5Tr0Wtu8rOkdfW-qNmvpdrnRdTeONYd_PcFQ50n50UCTkbkeAZwdA0FLIF_pvULKdpLRk9au-FguBuES_nNtRnkHbzwn88FQIJSflFv1XflrxqQ-oYHSmS/s960/Owen%20at%20Blockorama%20inside%20the%20truck.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIczA0Lf6GJF9Gwm8w8Vc2u0e4umRm7b0YTcyXCvQ9oQuIuIXPhUz0ydr3lKhJIaqWFnlvE5Tr0Wtu8rOkdfW-qNmvpdrnRdTeONYd_PcFQ50n50UCTkbkeAZwdA0FLIF_pvULKdpLRk9au-FguBuES_nNtRnkHbzwn88FQIJSflFv1XflrxqQ-oYHSmS/w640-h480/Owen%20at%20Blockorama%20inside%20the%20truck.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Neil Armstrong Merrick Aries stepping out of The Diner's Corner food truck at Blockorama</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Although he enjoyed travelling to his birthplace — Jamaica — he, equally, loved staying home and relaxing in his bedroom. Incidentally, before what would become his final visit to Jamaica in October, he repainted his room and changed his bedroom set and the carpet because, according to him, the room was too dark, and he wanted more light. He also installed a new lock on the door so that it would be just the way he left it on his return home to Ajax, Ontario. In hindsight, one wonders if this was an omen of what would befall him in Jamaica.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Ayo’dele said Merrick loved meeting people and was always willing to help them solve whatever problems they were experiencing. There were many long conversations held at the restaurant with strangers he just met. “His charming smile disarmed many — he became the point man to resolve issues. We will miss those skills. Those who were among his circle of friends knew he loved them — the love was mutual — and those who weren’t, knew exactly where they stood with him. In as much as he was a sociable person, he was a disciplinarian who ensured that rules were followed.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">His family in Canada wants everyone to remember him as a very talented person who believed in creating an elegant Black-owned restaurant for fine dining downtown in the heart of Canada’s largest city, Toronto, — and on Yonge Street, the longest street in</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">the</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">world.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Although his hands and heart are now stilled, and he will never be able to show us his love again, we will continue to love Merrick. As we bid him adieu, we say …walk good our beloved; we will always speak well of you and cherish the fond memories you left us. Walk good.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwr9DrVshzEO6HnC07hL6NkROEe6VRF-vmWaC7GYiQNIFAEXWo4zmvUK7qrJ4Kt_v8ERRxYzhZzUSN_gmTRWysN6l-cg6ftrl3LUwxz6YrTA3XYUpQAWdycxV5_8ei7UlsXMe4mVABnidbggmfZ_OADC_ElUeZq2-ZkLw-utjzY9SrwwZVU0l1y_-EWpC2/s960/Owen%20assembling%20pictures.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwr9DrVshzEO6HnC07hL6NkROEe6VRF-vmWaC7GYiQNIFAEXWo4zmvUK7qrJ4Kt_v8ERRxYzhZzUSN_gmTRWysN6l-cg6ftrl3LUwxz6YrTA3XYUpQAWdycxV5_8ei7UlsXMe4mVABnidbggmfZ_OADC_ElUeZq2-ZkLw-utjzY9SrwwZVU0l1y_-EWpC2/w480-h640/Owen%20assembling%20pictures.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Neil Armstrong Merrick Aries assembling art for the walls of The Diner's Corner</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoraC5yKuPrFBqLlKhuLYLjVn5Pyr2c83VdfGl71TFCoA6pQ_zsQzIkqjry0KwULu3-zW2J62aG984opSgENfDvHtwXhtyQgpVJwYg10dneZeasodaPYIrH3LJ4ax9YAGuLs_ZP0-8ozBnA2tM9S87ZQJhbePYtEwPqG9HE9lm5noH3g2LCEzeyqqSbfI8/s960/Owen%20checking%20his%20phone.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoraC5yKuPrFBqLlKhuLYLjVn5Pyr2c83VdfGl71TFCoA6pQ_zsQzIkqjry0KwULu3-zW2J62aG984opSgENfDvHtwXhtyQgpVJwYg10dneZeasodaPYIrH3LJ4ax9YAGuLs_ZP0-8ozBnA2tM9S87ZQJhbePYtEwPqG9HE9lm5noH3g2LCEzeyqqSbfI8/w480-h640/Owen%20checking%20his%20phone.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Neil Armstrong Merrick Aries checking his phone in a conversation</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">A slideshow highlighting moments of Aries’s life was shown complemented by the song, “See You Again,” by Sam Smith.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In his sermon, Rev. Father Bertram Gayle<b> </b>said Aries was dear to the hearts of all gathered in the church and those who were tuned in to the service virtually.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“It’s a celebration we have today of a life that for many is overshadowed by the tragic circumstance surrounding his death. And given this reality and the pain and hurt that it occasions it is natural for us to ask why, why did he have to face such a tragic end, why him, why such a young person…why would a good God allow such a thing to befall someone who had such a big heart.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Reverend Gayle said there were also other whys such as, “why should we continue to give ourselves to a country that is so unsafe for everyone, why should we invest our time, our treasures and our talents in a nation that has caused us so much grief and trauma, why hold on to hope, hope for the land of wood and water.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">To answer those questions, he directed everyone to the words of Jesus: “To keep fighting for the good in a land that has so much evil, and may Jesus’s words help to recentre us, to reenergize us when we are overcome by grief and a deep sense of loss. And to help us see that the memory of those who are taken from us, the memories of Merrick, the memories of Owen, those memories are best served when we continue in his mission.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The reverend said the mission that Aries was involved in included “seeing the good in others, in bridging differences, in bringing a sense of joy and love to those who were around him, to forge a world fashioned by compassion, understanding and peace.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In his tribute, Dennis, a friend of Aries, described him as “a culinary master who has left an indelible mark on the vibrant tapestry of Toronto’s culinary scene.” Speaking on behalf of her niece, Janet Henry Thompson, his aunt Pauline Henry said Aries was compassionate, kind, loving, resilient, and had very strong work ethics.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In November, Marci Ien, Member of Parliament for Toronto Centre, which includes the location of the restaurant, expressed her condolences on the loss of Aries.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“We are deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Merrick Aries. Merrick’s warm smile and delicious food brought so much joy to our community. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and the entire Diner’s Corner team during this difficult time. Merrick’s memory will live on in our hearts, and his legacy at the Diner’s Corner will be cherished.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Pride Toronto said as co-owner of The Diner’s Corner, “Merrick has blessed the Blockorama stage with delicious Caribbean food for many years. Merrick will truly be missed.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Friends of Aries held a community vigil at the restaurant on November 1, which included tributes, singing, dancing, drumming and the pouring of libation. Among those in attendance were MP Ien, Chris Moise, city councillor for Ward 13 – Toronto Centre, Reverend Paulette Brown, Reverend Jaqueline Daley, and Kojo Sherwin Modeste.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Some of his loyal customers said they always looked forward to Aries catering at their family dinners and staff events. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNHI4D3zGfIsBGlxdHNULE_U7asb92RtFbsWdcV9ZI-JemoqfK65G5CS5R8CglZANpqT12ujSFuB25GzSAczZE-1jGIweq-E-UDahJ9NGF_rCD-nHSvogewxkKGVq57ywsXDoF4DgbplJDn28ICCwhpdHrxqXIJ5HXUflksg5RwV1Q1id4_ygYp3p4CIr3/s1024/Merrick%20Aries%20in%20white%20outfit.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="1024" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNHI4D3zGfIsBGlxdHNULE_U7asb92RtFbsWdcV9ZI-JemoqfK65G5CS5R8CglZANpqT12ujSFuB25GzSAczZE-1jGIweq-E-UDahJ9NGF_rCD-nHSvogewxkKGVq57ywsXDoF4DgbplJDn28ICCwhpdHrxqXIJ5HXUflksg5RwV1Q1id4_ygYp3p4CIr3/w640-h404/Merrick%20Aries%20in%20white%20outfit.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Merrick Aries</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD_Z78_sJ4LIjHDj39zyUPHB8ktqfNZ2gA9kRN7Epa5_AZ-ZExntYU5ktMC2qDgcOZokxUuEYP732NmWOcQ4cJ84xiDefX_wJZTacbf-i4X47Lk4CjHxntF1Xg71Gh9gPxYqYiWKEHHXQCOm845NDnWaXxq5bCxtgGBIMXJ1qYAKPkyEwjJckuVIQw1cFt/s934/Merrick%20Aries%20on%20Funeral%20Program2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="624" data-original-width="934" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD_Z78_sJ4LIjHDj39zyUPHB8ktqfNZ2gA9kRN7Epa5_AZ-ZExntYU5ktMC2qDgcOZokxUuEYP732NmWOcQ4cJ84xiDefX_wJZTacbf-i4X47Lk4CjHxntF1Xg71Gh9gPxYqYiWKEHHXQCOm845NDnWaXxq5bCxtgGBIMXJ1qYAKPkyEwjJckuVIQw1cFt/w640-h428/Merrick%20Aries%20on%20Funeral%20Program2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The interment was held at Thetford Park Cemetery in Old Harbour, St. Catherine, Jamaica. <o:p></o:p></span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-58658376380982665962023-12-11T15:25:00.000-08:002023-12-14T06:05:20.667-08:00Artists Participated in Swearing-in Ceremony of New Mayor of Toronto<p> <span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong</span></p><p><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3RRTmdZ-MfjDEv5ofnCxLC8YZt2cb2lb7hP_CCAjt6KzDNhZE2W4iNrHY7eW4jwdOUA-rCTlR_hyXBz1GwBqn3YDu19zDp2aO0ZNwLo3J9h_ygOoSPJgMVy-lpQH8V-EdbO85sVqvsqk_v4CeY3mKbur6iPyOQ92TOPtvfddgVcaAqu3LqQGjHiWTurWp/s1920/Lillian_Allen.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3RRTmdZ-MfjDEv5ofnCxLC8YZt2cb2lb7hP_CCAjt6KzDNhZE2W4iNrHY7eW4jwdOUA-rCTlR_hyXBz1GwBqn3YDu19zDp2aO0ZNwLo3J9h_ygOoSPJgMVy-lpQH8V-EdbO85sVqvsqk_v4CeY3mKbur6iPyOQ92TOPtvfddgVcaAqu3LqQGjHiWTurWp/w640-h426/Lillian_Allen.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Toronto Poet Laureate Lillian Allen</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;">When Olivia Chow was sworn in as the new mayor of Toronto in July, the lilt of Jamaican English could be heard from the lectern of Toronto City Council Chamber where two well-known Jamaican Canadian artists participated in the Declaration of Office ceremony. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Chow, 66, who was born in Hong Kong and was a former member of parliament in Toronto, and a former city councillor, is the 66<sup>th</sup> mayor of Toronto and the first racialized person to lead Canada most populous city.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Sandra Whiting, a speaker, storyteller and event host, presented the African Ancestral Acknowledgement and Lillian Allen, a poet, writer, arts activist and professor who was appointed as Toronto’s seventh Poet Laureate in April read a poem.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">“We have a saying from my country of Jamaica, and as a Canadian of Jamaican heritage I want to share it with you. The saying says, ‘she likkle but she tallawah,’ </span><span lang="EN-GB">and that means she strong, she is mighty, she will be powerful,” said Whiting who is</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #171717;"> a Jamaican Patois/Creole court interpreter. At the end of her presentation, she looked at Chow and with her right hand aloft declared, “Olivia, tallawah woman,” before leaving the lectern.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #171717;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #0a0a0a;">Since 2020, Whiting has been teaching and facilitating online learning through the Institute for Change Leaders, an organization founded by Chow in 2016 that has trained more than ten thousand people.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #0a0a0a;">Whiting has worked as a TV host, storyteller, newspaper columnist, cultural programmer, animator, event planner and entrepreneur. She was also the managing editor of <i><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Excellence Magazine for Women.<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #0a0a0a;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #0a0a0a;">The former PACE Canada president conceived the Jamaica fiftieth anniversary of Independence celebrations in Canada and got the Jamaican Consulate, distinguished individuals, and many volunteers to work on the project that took two years of planning and execution.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #0a0a0a;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #0a0a0a;">Whiting has been involved in the management of many culturally diverse community programs such as Carnivallisima, Luminateau and Kuumba, an annual Black History Month programme at the Harbourfront Centre where she was the cultural arts programmer. <i><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #0a0a0a;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #0a0a0a;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #0a0a0a;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFjQ-Q2CA0yPCWQFRbEBC0bvwQ0De2ORBu-7LjPxi0xC31_5QyZahbyNBevzTPaz5aWxurPVZrpSaa4WGfokL4nmQdNZNuAmV1NW1v1JDR5SG3HRZ5ebi6RidkZHh_RR7321xQAGS-pJCc_zf4qb0Jo3CQbX-MftHaPo2SpPjJMhLtb3XnBE70JgLgR7ZG/s1621/Sandra%20Whiting%20-%20close-up%20DSC_7908-B.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1621" data-original-width="1077" height="641" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFjQ-Q2CA0yPCWQFRbEBC0bvwQ0De2ORBu-7LjPxi0xC31_5QyZahbyNBevzTPaz5aWxurPVZrpSaa4WGfokL4nmQdNZNuAmV1NW1v1JDR5SG3HRZ5ebi6RidkZHh_RR7321xQAGS-pJCc_zf4qb0Jo3CQbX-MftHaPo2SpPjJMhLtb3XnBE70JgLgR7ZG/w426-h641/Sandra%20Whiting%20-%20close-up%20DSC_7908-B.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Storyteller Sandra Whiting</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #0a0a0a;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #0a0a0a;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #0a0a0a;">In April</span><span lang="EN-US">, City of Toronto staff recommended Allen to become Toronto’s seventh Poet Laureate and City Council approved the appointment at its May meeting. A selection committee in consultation with the literary community nominated her.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US">Allen — who is a leader in dub poetry, a politically charged, reggae-infused poetry of resistance and visionary futures — was named a foremother of Canadian poetry by the League of Canadian Poets. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US">The two-time JUNO Award winner and trailblazer in spoken word and dub poetry artistically explores the aesthetics of old and new sounds with her influential reggae dub poetry and spoken word recordings. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US">Performing her poem, “My Toronto Poetic Justice,” Allen painted an aural image of the city including artists, protests against injustice in different places and events such as International Women’s Day Parade, Caribana, Salsa on St. Clair, Scarborough Fest — “you have made our city strong, a republic of possibilities, a home to belong.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US">The professor of creative writing at Ontario College of Art and Design University (OCADU) has been a successful cultural strategist, helping transform Toronto and Canadian cultural landscapes. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US">“It is such an honour and a singular joy to keep bringing poetry to the people in this three-million-sided heart of a city we so love, Tkaronto, Toronto,” said Allen.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US">Toronto’s first Poet Laureate was named in 2001. An advocate for poetry, language and the arts, the position honours a Toronto poet whose work displays excellence and has written on themes relevant to Torontonians. The Laureate is an ambassador for poetry and the arts and infuses poetry into a range of official and informal city activities to attract people to the literary world. The Poet Laureate’s mandate also includes creating a legacy project that will be unique to the individual. Allen’s legacy project will be announced at a later date.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US">Allen will hold the position for three years and receive an annual honorarium of $10,000 for serving as Toronto’s literary ambassador championing local literary arts and wordsmiths.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US">Toronto’s distinguished list of Poets Laureates since 2001 includes Dennis Lee, Pier Giorgio di Cicco, Dionne Brand, George Elliott Clarke, Anne Michaels and Al Moritz (A.F. Moritz).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-26465221751243351682023-12-06T12:16:00.000-08:002023-12-07T11:10:21.276-08:00Black Community in Toronto Mourns the Loss of Two Beloved Creatives<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6jGPYMEkh7cGfdNdHJzDRArNqr-LXTbjL5DHrP8okadrrv66uLM-5foXFuKsqXkNggtYID8IivtKDH4jZTjFIaTRsZdT6u8x5eNiswV3IkdQnc2tkb5tAsaIZKZWkgoPD3aswm-guMBC7W0yi0fz3z_BCPFg6NqoJ8kNqT8hd_T3us2s-6hKHtUUlNN2b/s600/Towa%20Beer1%20by%20Gerard%20Richardson%20Photography%20.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="399" data-original-width="600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6jGPYMEkh7cGfdNdHJzDRArNqr-LXTbjL5DHrP8okadrrv66uLM-5foXFuKsqXkNggtYID8IivtKDH4jZTjFIaTRsZdT6u8x5eNiswV3IkdQnc2tkb5tAsaIZKZWkgoPD3aswm-guMBC7W0yi0fz3z_BCPFg6NqoJ8kNqT8hd_T3us2s-6hKHtUUlNN2b/w640-h426/Towa%20Beer1%20by%20Gerard%20Richardson%20Photography%20.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: #gerardphotoYYZ Towa Beer, Founder & Marketing Director of My Mentor Said <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">They died one week apart from each other which has members of Toronto’s Black community profoundly saddened that two of its dynamic creatives — marketing expert Towa Beer and acclaimed filmmaker Charles Officer — are no longer around to animate conversations and life. They are being remembered with fond memories. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Beer, who created and produced several events and festivals in Canada and internationally, passed away on November 25 due to diabetes-related complications<b>, </b>and Officer, a prolific film director, died on December 1 after a long illness. Their families and friends will gather on Sunday, December 10, 2023, in Toronto at separate events and different times to bid them a final goodbye.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Born on April 28, 1971, in Zambia, Beer was a marketer, event producer and travel tv host who </span><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">produced campaigns to raise a client’s profile and attract media and corporate partners while deepening ties with customers and the community, notes her LinkedIn profile.</span><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Describing herself as a revolutionary’s daughter on her Tumblr page, Beer said she “grew up globally, playing in airports, learning manners and racial politics at the dining table and all the while, I’m lusting for the MTV life.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She said she is the daughter of two NGO globe-trotters, mother of a daughter and mentor to many young social entrepreneurs. “I’m always going to find a way to help artists create, causes to be heard and young people to be engaged in change,” wrote Beer.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Towa’s career has taken her along for a very interesting ride, from radio stations to record labels to PR, to owning her own agency to Parks Canada to the Heart & Stroke Foundation – there’s not much this voracious yet diligent woman cannot do,” notes her Tumblr profile.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Beer worked at EMI Music Publishing Canada – one of the world’s top record labels – which equipped her to become head of the promotions department at Flow 93.5 where she built the brand from the ground up. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She eventually founded her own agency, Transl8tor Marketing Inc., which generated over $500,000 through concerts, sports events, sponsorship, marketing and public relations for non-profits and charities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In 2006, she closed Transl8tor and accepted an offer to become the Head of Sponsorship at Cable & Wireless Jamaica. In her new role, Beer designed the engagement strategy behind 2 of the largest events in the world (Reggae Sunsplash, ICC Cricket World Cup) while being responsible for sponsorship budgets over $10MM, notes her page.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She also joined the largest health charity in Canada, The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, where she created a new national sponsorship and sampling model for the Chinese community and introduced Ride for Heart, The Heart Truth and Big Bike to Canada’s leading corporations.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Beer created www.pitchyourtech.ca, GTHA's 1st Tech Conference for Diverse Youth; CULTIV8TOR: Creative Coworking spaces with Childcare;</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> <span style="background: repeat white;">www.mymentorsaid.ca, a digital marketing agency fueled by entrepreneurs and mentors; and www.eighteentwelve.ca, a multi-media solution for Parks Canada, Canadian Geographic and The Historica Dominion Institute for every high school student in Canada. She also created and</span> <span style="background: repeat white;">produced UrbanAIDS, HIV awareness concert with Alicia Keys and Stephen Lewis Foundation, and created and produced the inaugural NBA Steve Nash Charity Classic, raising $280,000 in one day.</span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Alain P. Arthur, co-founder, host and executive producer of Caribbean Vibrations TV. Ltd., where Beer was a tv host, said the company has lost a family member.</span><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“We’ve known Towa since the inception of Caribbean Vibrations 20 years ago and within that time she became an ally, confidant, consultant, colleague and most importantly, friend,” wrote Arthur on his LinkedIn profile.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /><br /><span style="background: repeat white;">He said Beer worked alongside the company in various capacities from the Black Film and Video Network (BFVN) to Flow 93.5FM, the Steve Nash All-Star game, and ultimately, Caribbean Vibrations for the last nine years.</span><span class="white-space-pre"></span><br /><br /><span style="background: repeat white;">“We travelled with Towa to Curacao, Barbados and Aruba. She was a producer, writer, creative soul and even stepped in to host one of our episodes.</span><span class="white-space-pre"> </span><span style="background: repeat white;">This is a devastating loss to our company as Towa was actively involved in our rebrand strategy and the future of Caribbean Vibrations TV,” said Arthur.</span><br /><br /><span style="background: repeat white;">Arthur, who had a business meeting with Beer one day before she died, expressed his condolences to Beer’s daughter Siena, parents, two brothers, relatives, friends and colleagues.</span> “<span style="background: repeat white;">You may not be here, but your voice will always be in our hearts and heads.</span> <span style="background: repeat white;">Sleep well, my friend.” </span><span style="background: repeat white;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">In her tribute posted on Facebook, Toni Anne Thomas, vice president of operations and executive in charge of production at Caribbean Vibrations TV Ltd., said Beer taught her a lot about the Toronto media industry. </span><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Alluding to Beer’s health issues, she said, “Towa was not going to let her body get in the way of her goals, aspirations and what she truly wanted to do.” Thomas described Beer’s ideas as “rapid fire” and therefore she kept “a pad of paper around to keep up with her vast knowledge.”</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Beer was an alumna of Bishop’s University in Quebec where she graduated with a BFA, Business Administration Honours Art History, 1989-1993. She was also involved in several activities, including being the manager of Bishop’s University Pub, captain of Bishop’s University Rugby Football Club, and a player of the Province of Quebec Rugby Football Team.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Event planner and manager Joan Pierre wrote in a Facebook post that Beer was a hardworking innovator and creator with “the talent that surpasses many” and that her passing “will be one of the greatest losses in our community and the society as a whole.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She knew Beer since 1998 and although befuddled by her death, Pierre wrote, “Rest in power my daughter, because that’s what she was to me, and I will miss that ‘Mama Joan’ coming from her voice. Gone much too soon my love, you will be missed by many who have crossed your path.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Black Diamond Ball Toronto, founded by producer and choreographer, Shawn Cuffie, posted on its Instagram page that Beer was not just a publicist for the event from 2017 to 2020, but was a “cherished mentor, a beacon of wisdom, and an angel who graced our lives.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Her teachings, unwavering support, and invaluable guidance have left an indelible mark on us all. Towa’s presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy of kindness and knowledge will continue to inspire us.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The post encouraged readers to support the GoFundMe set up for her funeral and for her family. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2BBsebh6lJONNUcbEZ06Tb6nXPh_n-4IfDk4C2w9RREMSrPba_iw3KgNDAxaecRoCh4WCjY5UoV2He76aeNn614i7gunaKeuFf-OeF27mzQtvRLNePtSbCZxwAxycjnJTbzMydUfxs50msrGKdk0hj-7jihhkgvCEM-y3rOmK5EMLq3ru6WgPqATRtR5n/s1800/Celebration%20of%20Life%20of%20Towa%20Beer.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2BBsebh6lJONNUcbEZ06Tb6nXPh_n-4IfDk4C2w9RREMSrPba_iw3KgNDAxaecRoCh4WCjY5UoV2He76aeNn614i7gunaKeuFf-OeF27mzQtvRLNePtSbCZxwAxycjnJTbzMydUfxs50msrGKdk0hj-7jihhkgvCEM-y3rOmK5EMLq3ru6WgPqATRtR5n/w512-h640/Celebration%20of%20Life%20of%20Towa%20Beer.JPG" width="512" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>A Celebration of Life for Towa Beer will be held on Sunday, December 10, 2023, 4:30-5:30 p.m. at AMORE, 599 College Street in Toronto.<o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b></b></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiarkl3L7DHNnUqcmAMo6Axa0vnTnOEnmQJSi7AslHibBQekbEZ34Tm8Tj-2SX0MJLT4JC8r3cPWH4MlAZhYkg70AvIXv-9DB99CTGLnaZZgCIFi9y2Wv6N0wI8ghNPXjm58Jst7uYR4diQeqGmdRGYf1pgJZaRBcWLWsWr9Jhfc82TVGeQThmGvvogAXrv/s1750/Charles%20Officer_%20Photo%20Credit%20_%20Paul%20Martin%20%C2%A9%20Hiprofile.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1347" data-original-width="1750" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiarkl3L7DHNnUqcmAMo6Axa0vnTnOEnmQJSi7AslHibBQekbEZ34Tm8Tj-2SX0MJLT4JC8r3cPWH4MlAZhYkg70AvIXv-9DB99CTGLnaZZgCIFi9y2Wv6N0wI8ghNPXjm58Jst7uYR4diQeqGmdRGYf1pgJZaRBcWLWsWr9Jhfc82TVGeQThmGvvogAXrv/w640-h492/Charles%20Officer_%20Photo%20Credit%20_%20Paul%20Martin%20%C2%A9%20Hiprofile.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria, serif, serif, EmojiFont; font-size: 16px; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2;">Paul Martin © Hiprofile</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>Charles Officer in this photograph captured by KhaRa Martin's father, Paul Martin, and showcased in the Black Community Mixtapes episode, a series produced by OYA Media Group</td></tr></tbody></table><b><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Charles Officer was born on October 28, 1975, in Toronto, Ontario, in a</span><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> Jamaican, British and Jewish household and had three sisters. His mother immigrated to New York from Jamaica and then to Toronto; his father came to Canada from London, England, in the 1960s. </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He was the founder of Canesugar Filmworks, established in 2008, which he describes on his LinkedIn page as a</span><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> company that was “from the "bottom-up" instead of "top-down.”</span><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I like to collect old dub reggae music, images of obscure things, books and books and stories that reveal secrets of the human heart – stories of the Jewish holocaust, the dismantling of Aboriginal culture to the future of human rights movements and education systems – the ongoing social constructs that we perpetuate. I collect stories about broken hearts, love, justice and equality. But what I like to collect most, are intimate moment-to-moment experiences,” reads a quote from Officer on the website of Canesugar Filmworks.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Jake Yanowski, a producer and Officer’s business partner and long-time creative collaborator, described Officer in a CBC interview as a “giant of the Canadian film and television scene who will be missed both by audiences and those in the industry.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">As an independent filmmaker, Officer has been unearthing untold stories and throughout his career worked in various capacities as a graphic designer, art director, creative director, writer, director, producer and actor. At one stage of his life, he was also a professional hockey player.</span><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> He was a director and actor, known for the 2020 feature “Akilla’s Escape,” 2017 feature documentary “Unarmed Verses,” 2009 feature “Nurse.Fighter.Boy,” 2019 feature documentary “Invisible Essence,” 2017 TV documentary “The Skin We’re In,” 2011 feature documentary “Mighty Jerome,” and 2012 TV documentary “Stone Thrower.” Officer was also the director of 4 of the 8 episodes of the CBC series, “The Porter,” a CBC/BET drama about The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, North America’s first Black-led union. It won 12 awards at the Canadian Screen Awards earlier this year for </span><span style="background: repeat white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif;">best original music, production, costume design, best writing and best drama series.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">An alumnus of Leaside High School, Canadian Film Centre Directors Lab, Film Directing Program, and the Neighbourhood Playhouse School of Theatre Performing & Dramatic Arts, Acting/Movement/Voice, he volunteered in creative workshops in Arts and Culture and cinematic storytelling sessions for youth for many years.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Officer was also one of the founders of the Black Screen Office whose mission is to help “build a screen industry free of ant-Black racism by working with industry decision makers to change practices and build systems </span><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 11.5pt;">for </span><span style="background: repeat white; font-family: Cambria, serif;">accountability, directly catalyzing the production of Black-led content and supporting the career advancement of Black professionals.”</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: repeat white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">Writer, producer, director, and co-founder of OYA Media Group, Alison Duke, says Officer was a beautiful soul who generated a lot of energy around him. “You could see that he was on a mission not just to create the best work he could, but to make sure his work helped to dispel stereotypes around the way Black people tell stories and the way we think about stories. I believe that’s why he was revered so much and why people appreciated him and were inspired by him.” </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #242424; font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: repeat white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #242424; font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: repeat white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">Duke says his legacy will be a part of that, but also the result of the quiet mentoring he did with so many. “He was very generous with his time and mentored some of our OYA emerging filmmakers,” she said, noting that Officer was very inspirational to her and her work. “It’s just a tremendous loss, and I’m still feeling it emotionally.” </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #242424; font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The CaribbeanTales International Film Festival team described Officer as a cherished member of the Toronto film industry. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“His unwavering passion for storytelling touched the lives of many and left an indelible mark on our hearts. Charles Officer's creative journey transcended filmmaking, it was about crafting compelling narratives that deeply resonated with audiences. His remarkable legacy continues to thrive through his profound cinematic contributions.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In a message, the team said as a special feature at the CaribbeanTales's youth film festival in 2010, Charles shared "Nurse.Fighter.Boy." “In 2021, during our online festival, we had the privilege of previewing "Akilla’s Escape" with a special talkback session featuring Charles. His distinctive perspective enriched our festival, showcasing his exceptional talent and visionary storytelling.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Today, we unite in a moment of silence to pay homage to a true cinematic star. Charles Officer, your brilliance will forever illuminate the world through your remarkable work,” said CaribbeanTales.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: repeat white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Diana Webley<b>,</b> Director of Festival and Events of CaribbeanTales, says Officer</span><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> was a humble and wonderful visionary that she had the pleasure to know for over a decade. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: repeat white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: repeat white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;">She noted that during the festival in 2021, Andria Case of CTV News interviewed Officer at the launch of CaribbeanTales’s “Sweet 16th Year Behind The Lens: Fighting the Odds in Canadian Film” about “Akilla's Escape” — the event was a co-presentation with the Jamaican Canadian Association. “Such a brilliant mind gone too soon,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: repeat white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: repeat white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“It is during this interview that Charles’s legacy is revealed once again. Charles opens up about many things and what his hopes and aspirations are, but one part, in particular, still sits with me and motivates me to keep pressing on in this industry where we can tell our authentic stories and where we do not need permission to be ourselves. Charles says: "We're building houses for our stories to live in, these old structures that last the test of time that house things. Each step, each story, each day is just trying to build that space where those stories can live and I'm trying to contribute to that",” said Webley.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The Reelworld Screen Institute wrote a tribute to the filmmaker on its Facebook page describing him as “an incredible talent and mentor to many who left a legacy that will endure for generations.” It noted that he was the recipient of the 2002 Reelworld Trailblazer Award and described him as a talented creative.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) said it mourns “the loss of a significant Canadian talent, a beloved member of the film community and a friend.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“His impactful work in film and storytelling touched many hearts and we were honored to present many of his films and welcomed him in 2023 for our 1<sup>st</sup> edition of TBFF,” wrote the Toronto Black Film Festival on its Facebook page. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival said Officer championed the voices of heroes big and small and shared their stories with the world.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“We were honoured to have screened his films MIGHTY JEROME and UNARMED VERSES at our festival — they are a testament to his talent, vision and dedication to compelling and uplifting stories,” wrote Hot Docs on its Facebook page.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Officer leaves behind a 2-year-old son, Selah, with his partner, actor Alice Snaden.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jMeVG1myw8NmsmjySfE3YIkxRH3mpSodxRAJ9OiMjJfAPzJh0jzn2pRb-O3WvLaM3VDyAYt96lOd8WuxjjeUpqMqnIehAp7BvW8t5oHZdaK_c1THMgEi2l0lJWLikJKU9q0MSZ2Cu2UNiqu-oiZx568iNTh8u_-ttgytQwy24ZntvLalvMurCnOLhw1l/s970/Charles%20Officer%20Funeral%20Service%20Program.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="970" data-original-width="959" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jMeVG1myw8NmsmjySfE3YIkxRH3mpSodxRAJ9OiMjJfAPzJh0jzn2pRb-O3WvLaM3VDyAYt96lOd8WuxjjeUpqMqnIehAp7BvW8t5oHZdaK_c1THMgEi2l0lJWLikJKU9q0MSZ2Cu2UNiqu-oiZx568iNTh8u_-ttgytQwy24ZntvLalvMurCnOLhw1l/w632-h640/Charles%20Officer%20Funeral%20Service%20Program.JPG" width="632" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">A funeral service for Charles Officer will be held on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Benjamin’s Park Memorial Chapel, 2401 Steeles Avenue West in North York, Ontario. A Celebration of Life will be held in early 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-74336253932491286292023-11-23T04:41:00.000-08:002023-11-23T04:41:45.973-08:00Leadership Program Empowers Black, Indigenous and Racialized Women <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk1Csa5aTNm7nUwgbIwbrcKpXJpP6G7kIa7ud1rc3mB2aUj6Z8E9N3zqlPZpRZyGV5EBsCuERx-asUU5bMrGO0Q_XDBlFhtG7ZIT8tNfsjzmGefPJ-esZsrodY_2GHeSUVDsF3iEHl2NjiALk1-0pZ9LN_-g994dtDilHS-Tb3kxPHVYMDuKP9RlySBLNk/s1600/Aina-nia's%20Rebrand%20Headshots-62.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk1Csa5aTNm7nUwgbIwbrcKpXJpP6G7kIa7ud1rc3mB2aUj6Z8E9N3zqlPZpRZyGV5EBsCuERx-asUU5bMrGO0Q_XDBlFhtG7ZIT8tNfsjzmGefPJ-esZsrodY_2GHeSUVDsF3iEHl2NjiALk1-0pZ9LN_-g994dtDilHS-Tb3kxPHVYMDuKP9RlySBLNk/w426-h640/Aina-nia's%20Rebrand%20Headshots-62.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Aina-Nia Ayo'dele, CEO of Aina-Nia Learning Journey Inc.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Sacred Leader Training (SLT+</span></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">), a leadership program that has empowered Black, Indigenous and racialized women, is about to enter its fourteenth year in January 2024 and is inviting enterprising women to come along on the journey.</span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">This unique experience for women, who are leading in various aspects of their lives, invites those ready for a radical shift in life transformation to learn and grow with like-minded women leaders in a flourishing sacred community. “The process is like the meeting of yourself,” says City of Toronto Business Services Manager, Tobie Mathew. “All of the sisters [in SLT+] tell you who you are.”</span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I had a very clear understanding that I needed an African-centred leadership process at the time,” says artist and curator, Chiedza Pasipanodya, who had questions about their identity and needed the support found in the program created by Aina-Nia Ayo’dele, a transformative leader.</span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The process is intentional about ensuring women become clear on their life visions and live fully into their purpose. The curriculum is grounded in indigenous African wisdom practices, contemporary leadership and universal spiritual principles.</span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The women who engage in the Sacred Leader Training process are usually Black, Indigenous and racialized women in mid-management to senior leadership who are leading organizations, boards, and often their own businesses. </span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">For social worker and assistant professor, Verlia Stephens, SLT+ helped her to challenge the imposter syndrome that she experienced in her work life. “This process made me confront... making myself really small and why I am doing that,” said Stephens who is among the 50 women who have completed the program.</span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Those selected in the process, must be willing to commit to do the work that cultivates self-joy; be ready to journey alongside Ayo’dele’s tutelage and support to release shame, guilt, imbalance, overwhelm and self-sacrifice; and be able to take responsibility to cultivate a life on purpose.</span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">To achieve this, they will explore topics such as life vision manifestation, balance and boundaries, self-acceptance, forgiveness, restoration and preservation, ancient healing rituals, spiritual activism, African spiritual feminism and sexual power, and dream interpretation.</span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Ayo’dele, a leadership coach, author, ancient wisdom teacher and spiritual liberation activist, is the CEO of Aina-Nia Learning Journey Inc. on a mission to influence institutions and individuals to create bold and meaningful change through a decolonized approach to leadership as a path to equity, inclusion, reparation, and reconciliation and most importantly, self-love. </span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">SLT+2024 starts on January 14, and in-person group learning circles will be held bi-weekly during the ten months. The training includes a mid-way overnight retreat in Ontario, Canada and an international culmination retreat for five days on a land where indigenous African ways are still practiced.</span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By the end of the process, leaders will learn to release the things that are blocking or hindering them from living purposefully and taken the radical steps to advance. Certified Sacred Leaders will have manifested their primary purpose of being on this planet at this time, along with the mastery of balance, boundaries and self-love. </span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="paragraph" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><span class="normaltextrun"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Women who are called to embark on this journey have until December 23, 2023, to submit applications to aina-nia.com/slt-2024<b> </b>and, while there they can book a conversation for consideration. </span></span><span class="eop"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></span></span>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-74045993936828233442023-11-06T18:34:00.000-08:002023-11-06T18:34:20.514-08:00Endowment of the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora Achieved<p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong</span></p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiewVZ48YXcF2q0Fh3pXu18rHif_QFW9d8oBQZaIQ1ZJRxKZa3WzOzF6YBUxBuOd6qzBZUGD3lMngEK8Q24Y4Be8fOqkxbvv6JGR3XJQ-FDmSnji9fq9TdT5P3kzz3lcJD8H0pB7IDsXooXGc0OkIvIOlJ0XTVyj4-22X13qs8AIjlStB3Fb85h5rkmMGrJ/s4032/Group%20photo%20from%20the%20Jean%20Augustine%20Chair%20event.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiewVZ48YXcF2q0Fh3pXu18rHif_QFW9d8oBQZaIQ1ZJRxKZa3WzOzF6YBUxBuOd6qzBZUGD3lMngEK8Q24Y4Be8fOqkxbvv6JGR3XJQ-FDmSnji9fq9TdT5P3kzz3lcJD8H0pB7IDsXooXGc0OkIvIOlJ0XTVyj4-22X13qs8AIjlStB3Fb85h5rkmMGrJ/w640-h480/Group%20photo%20from%20the%20Jean%20Augustine%20Chair%20event.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to right: Robert Savage, Dean of the Faculty of Education; Carl James, holder of the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora; Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities; Jean Augustine in whose name the Chair is named; Arielle Kayabaga, Chair of the Liberal Black Caucus; Kamala-Jean Gopie, educator and philanthropist; Rhonda Benton, President and Vice-Chancellor; and Paul Axelrod, former Dean of the Faculty of Education</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The federal government has donated $1.5M to the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora thus making the full cost of endowment of the position possible at York University in Toronto.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Describing the announcement as a celebration of the work, vision and legacy of Dr. Jean Augustine, Rhonda Lenton, President and Vice-Chancellor of the university, said it was also a celebration of the Jean Augustine Chair.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Dr. Carl James, holder of the Jean Augustine Chair, is a professor in the Faculty of Education but he also holds cross appointments in the graduate programs in sociology, social and political thought, and social work. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“He is advancing the vision of the Jean Augustine Chair in very exciting new directions and his research is driving positive change for Black youth in Canada,” said Lenton who also introduced Dr. Augustine describing her as a tireless advocate of social justice.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She noted that Augustine was an elementary school principal before entering federal politics, and in 1993, became the first Black woman elected to the parliament of Canada and was the first Black woman to serve as federal minister. Dr. Augustine was exceptionally instrumental in establishing Black History Month in Canada in 1995 and has received many awards and accolades for her leadership. She was honoured with the naming of the Jean Augustine Secondary School in Brampton.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Lenton noted that the trailblazer’s Order of Canada citation reads: “For her distinguished career as an educator, politician and advocate for social justice in Canada.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She said since its launch in 2008, the Jean Augustine Chair has been “an incredibly important part of the York community with its unique focus and dedication to advancing scholarly research, programs, partnerships, and new opportunities for Black communities in Toronto and beyond.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The vice-chancellor said she could recall when they were doing important consultations with Black students and Black faculty on the campus asking for input about what would make a really important significant difference — one of the common recommendations was the need for a Chair which would not only be symbolic but would be driving the initiatives and bringing together post-docs, graduate students and other faculty members. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Contributing to that Chair, Dr. Augustine has helped us raise over $1.8M in community donations towards the endowment of the Chair,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Meanwhile, Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, said Dr. Augustine has touched the lives of many Canadians and she is grateful for her remarkable legacy.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“To help ensure that your legacy continues to shine brightly for years to come,” said Khera, “I am so proud to announce that our government will contribute $1.5M towards the endowment of the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She noted that the Chair is supporting the next generation of Black leaders and changemakers. “It is helping to address the barriers that keep Black youth from advancing in education and, of course, it is about building on the social justice work that Dr. Augustine has been doing for years to build a more inclusive and equitable Canada.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The minister said the fund will support research, educational programs for advancing community partnerships that are culturally responsive and relevant to the educational social needs and aspirations of Black and other racialized community members inside and outside, and throughout Canada of this university. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Khera said everyone knows that racism continues to be an unacceptable daily reality for far too many Canadians, and in particular, Black Canadians. “Too many of our neighbours, friends and family members endure the harmful and disruptive effects of racism. You know I always say that in Canada diversity is a fact, but inclusion is a choice, and it’s a choice that I think all of us need to make every single day.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She said since 2015 the federal government has taken several measures to combat racism and to empower vibrant Black communities in Canada. These include: $85M to develop and launch a new Canadian Anti-Racism Strategy and the first National Action Plan on Combatting Hate; over $200M to establish the first-ever Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund which is on top of the $65M to create Canada’s first Black Entrepreneurship Program.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Over the next two years, we’re also providing over $50M for supporting the Black Canadian Communities Initiative. This will empower Black-led and Black-serving community organizations to promote inclusiveness.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Arielle Kayabaga, Member of Parliament for London West and Chair of the Liberal Black Caucus, said the $1.5M donation will have a significant impact on the community. “The importance of investing in education for Black students cannot be overstated so by doing so we are empowering young minds to reach their full potential,” she said, noting that it will lead to a brighter future for all children in the country not just for the Black community.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Bp4ibNP74djf0fyrGnLTp2HRLm2iLxqtbmNMQbcTjcSI8ywrac5ZKfMqUesqT3Gf8dKOXkyiv7UxPGe-3d-mVFakvzSUpKWgCavnTdB85u03f07GJ77jDd2uueR7RRdxVc7GUZzHj4gM2b7y6jfpu9OLNCPjkaQ1bhfwIvE7jLWxcTRdb8468ItpIax2/s4032/Carl%20James%20at%20Jean%20Augustine%20Chair%20announcement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Bp4ibNP74djf0fyrGnLTp2HRLm2iLxqtbmNMQbcTjcSI8ywrac5ZKfMqUesqT3Gf8dKOXkyiv7UxPGe-3d-mVFakvzSUpKWgCavnTdB85u03f07GJ77jDd2uueR7RRdxVc7GUZzHj4gM2b7y6jfpu9OLNCPjkaQ1bhfwIvE7jLWxcTRdb8468ItpIax2/w480-h640/Carl%20James%20at%20Jean%20Augustine%20Chair%20announcement.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr. Carl James, holder of the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora at York University</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Since 2016, Dr. Carl James has held the position of the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora and the impact of his work in advancing the vision of the Chair is highly visible, said Robert Savage, Dean of the Faculty of Education, who also noted that Dr. James is the senior advisor on equity and representation at York University.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Dr. James referenced the Second Annual Youth Participatory Action Research Conference held recently at the university by the Centre of Excellence for Black Students Achievement in partnership with the Toronto District School Board and the Jean Augustine Chair.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Nearly 200 high school students plus parents, parents, administrators and trustees from the TDSB as well as members of other school boards attended the one-day session. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“In all, about 300 people, including observers from Edmonton, Alberta, spent the day hearing from students about the research the students had conducted and in which they examined the experiences of immigrant students, community and health barriers to education, and the underrepresentation of Black students in STEM and other specialized programs.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Dr. James said he referenced the work of the students to underscore the significance of this contribution from the Canadian government to the Jean Augustine Chair in ensuring the future of the Chair and its programs and what would happen to these students. “And, of course, it is valuable endorsement to the foresight and aspirations of Dr. Hon. Jean Augustine who chose York as the best institution for the Chair.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Furthermore, this contribution builds on the contributions from York University with the leadership of President Lenton, Dean Savage, and I have to remember Dean Paul Axelrod who was the dean of education when the Chair was established.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Dr. James said the experience that the high school students had from being on the university campus at the conference will help them to meaningfully think of and imagine themselves at university pursuing postsecondary education and not drop out or not go on to graduate studies as research has shown.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He highlighted some of the research programs of the Chair including one funded by RBC called “Securing Black Futures” which is being carried out with colleagues from six other universities. At the University of British Columbia, University of Ottawa and Toronto Metropolitan University they are working with high school students to sustain their educational ambition. Meanwhile at McMaster University and University of Calgary the focus is on nurturing the STEM interest of Black students.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“So, working with faculty members, graduate students, undergraduate students, post-docs and other team members we are able to do research and we hope to produce reports and publications that will provide valuable insights that will inform further work and contribute to the brighter future of Black students, and of course not only to the Black community that’s going to be benefitting but Canada as a whole.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Dr. James said the work of the Chair is supported by faculty associates and a community advisory committee that meet and discuss what is taking place and inform and educate the Chair about where the work should be going.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">On November 20, the Chair will host 20 Black high school students from Halifax, Nova Scotia, giving them a “York University postsecondary education experience” which will be like one held in 2022 for students from Halifax. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdBIFfo11vHIyslrAVt6XipzwCsV7llIm8SeXF3KM_cxlDNh0O7IToCIfa4t2dQj7MeCL20MeOrn3se84IqwykWnn-6Zi_-ajYPnRrzhCZKY8wW06S_N_XVYob8_GtTcJQjtQ7rYdUYQo_8VRKRcfA_LL2fx_mXqVK2eB_MX6IaZ-9bkR1foOe9B7pbRQ/s4032/Jean%20Augustine%20at%20Jean%20Augustine%20Chair%20donation%20announcement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdBIFfo11vHIyslrAVt6XipzwCsV7llIm8SeXF3KM_cxlDNh0O7IToCIfa4t2dQj7MeCL20MeOrn3se84IqwykWnn-6Zi_-ajYPnRrzhCZKY8wW06S_N_XVYob8_GtTcJQjtQ7rYdUYQo_8VRKRcfA_LL2fx_mXqVK2eB_MX6IaZ-9bkR1foOe9B7pbRQ/w480-h640/Jean%20Augustine%20at%20Jean%20Augustine%20Chair%20donation%20announcement.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr. Jean Augustine addressing the audience inside the Kaneff Tower at York University where the federal government announced a donation of $1.5M towards the endowment of the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Augustine said Dean Axelrod believed in her dream when she was talking about the establishment of the Chair. She acknowledged all the friends and supporters from the community who were present at the announcement and singled out educator and philanthropist Kamala-Jean Gopie who among a small group of friends attended meetings with her years ago at the university to “buttress my backbone so that I could do the fight.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“We kept coming to have conversations with the university to ensure that we talk about diversity, about multiculturalism, about the nature of the society that would include all our young people. And I was always a believer from my time in education that you have to do the educating,” said Augustine who said she has a young women’s centre for empowerment which works with girls from the age of 7 to build their self-confidence.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Augustine said from 2008, her life has been around securing the $3M required for the endowment of the Chair, and she sought donations and held various events to raise $1.8M.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">She urged Minister Khera to not spend a lot of time on the issue of diversity because Canada is a diverse society. “We need to spend time on inclusivity, that’s where our energy has to go, inclusive.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Dean Savage said the federal government’s support will allow for the future sustainability of the Chair. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-21725715748430909762023-10-24T14:54:00.001-07:002023-10-24T14:54:15.262-07:00Wes Hall Urges Graduands to Go Change the World<p> <span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2BE3zWY5BdYryhmiwj8ag5as4tFw46Nj2Xpw9jnREQ-dhyphenhyphend4__jVTWvsflXOdapbs9JjgiNLhWDSodEm2otnxae10gHCdEkXqn4HgxNT6hOljPZkiSXzkNwkL_4zPNO9YDtkJ14n9hI0scTtoPIRaCjxP-z24g7WpcNCaXKvYHQGVod2kQ35vDEi92Zvl/s3936/Wesley%20Hall%20with%20hands%20clasped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2624" data-original-width="3936" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2BE3zWY5BdYryhmiwj8ag5as4tFw46Nj2Xpw9jnREQ-dhyphenhyphend4__jVTWvsflXOdapbs9JjgiNLhWDSodEm2otnxae10gHCdEkXqn4HgxNT6hOljPZkiSXzkNwkL_4zPNO9YDtkJ14n9hI0scTtoPIRaCjxP-z24g7WpcNCaXKvYHQGVod2kQ35vDEi92Zvl/w640-h426/Wesley%20Hall%20with%20hands%20clasped.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: York University Wes Hall, recipient of the honorary degree, Doctor of Laws, honours causa, at York University's Fall Convocation</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Wes Hall, the executive chairman and founder of Kingsdale Advisors, a shareholder advisory firm, has urged graduands at York University to dream big and to know that they can accomplish anything they aspire for in life.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Addressing them at the Fall Convocation where the university conferred on him an honorary degree — Doctor of Laws, honoris causa — he told them that they have untapped potential “so change I want to be to, I will become.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The philanthropist and author told them their fellow graduands represent their community and they are all starting from the same place. “You’re going to get into the workforce together and I want you to behave as a community. And, when you see injustices happening to a member of your community, stand up, say something, do something, stop it.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“See the opportunities others do not see, do what others won’t dare to do. My formula for success — have a curious mind, work hard and smart, and be a changemaker. Do not take no for an answer. When you’re knocked down, get right back up. Don’t let anyone stop you, and if the establishment challenges you when you’re trying to make positive change in our society, keep going. Change will happen but it takes persistence, it takes time, it takes commitment,” said the founder and chairman of the Canadian Council of Business Leaders Against Anti-Black Systemic Racism and the BlackNorth Initiative.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Hall said the work that he does today is to eradicate some of the challenges that he and his team see in society that are preventing individuals from greatness. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He told the graduates that society has labels for people like him and those who share his background. “They call us underserved, underprivileged, underrepresented — that label imprisons our potential. It divides us, it makes us feel like we do not belong, it makes us feel ashamed of our place in society, yet we cannot control it. We do not determine the country in which we were born, we do not determine the families we are born into. That’s all luck, but it’s held against us, or it’s held up depending on what happens in our life.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Hall said there are injustices in society, and it is everyone’s duty to react when they see them. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The recipient of six honorary degrees advised them to never discriminate against opportunities and told those who come from privilege that they have a more critical role to play in society by using it to change the world. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Reflecting on his thirty-eight years in Canada and how different things are from where he started in Jamaica, Hall thanked his grandmother, Julia Vassell, who died at the age of 97 for loving and caring for him and his siblings. He also thanked his wife, Christine, their five children and his father.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“When I was growing up in that tin shack in rural Jamaica with my grandmother working on a plantation, I never thought that my life would be anything but that,” said Hall while lauding the diversity of the graduates and telling them that they are the future of Canada. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He said the sooner diversity can be integrated into society the better and the quicker many of the problems in the world today will be solved. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Hall said his mother abandoned him when he was 18 months, and his siblings — sister Joan at 4 years old, and brother Ian, 6 months old — in a plantation shack. She left a pot of porridge on the stove and told Joan to feed everyone whenever they were hungry. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Days later a neighbour heard them crying in the house and when she checked she realized that they were by themselves. She quickly went to find the children’s grandmother who was raising seven grandchildren plus a special needs adult daughter at the time but opened her home to them. They were now ten grandchildren and two adults living off a plantation worker’s salary.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“That hard work that I witnessed as a child carried me to this day,” said Hall noting that opportunities were limited for him and his siblings. Their only option was to work on the plantation, but he said he was saved because his father, who migrated to Canada when Hall was one year old, rescued him from that life.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Hall, who came to Canada on September 27, 1985, at the age of 16, said when he lived in Jamaica, he had no right to education.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCT73XcbafcuSZ8re9qK7wSq_G64DaCcg0PafYtJVXIX8lGLGqnQfPionnDirf3-pzsGzSBsYLLdEl9YEEg4MFVciU_OCjEuab0X-EX-xtEyxCwqhIRax7MZVPCtpCSkSosBk2ASFrgLjXZBI27PbyIcDOJyu_1ftt7_F9rhouAcDtxn1JPccytjaWe5pB/s3936/Wesley%20Hall%20receiving%20honorary%20degree%20from%20York%20University.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2624" data-original-width="3936" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCT73XcbafcuSZ8re9qK7wSq_G64DaCcg0PafYtJVXIX8lGLGqnQfPionnDirf3-pzsGzSBsYLLdEl9YEEg4MFVciU_OCjEuab0X-EX-xtEyxCwqhIRax7MZVPCtpCSkSosBk2ASFrgLjXZBI27PbyIcDOJyu_1ftt7_F9rhouAcDtxn1JPccytjaWe5pB/w640-h426/Wesley%20Hall%20receiving%20honorary%20degree%20from%20York%20University.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: York University A hood is adjusted on Wes Hall at the Fall Convocation where the honorary degree, Doctor of Laws, honours causa, was conferred on him by York University</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“I could take the exam and then if I passed, I could go to high school, but my grandmother couldn’t afford high school. When I came here, September 27, 1985, was a Friday and on Monday I was in high school. Education was a right here, I didn’t have to take an exam. I didn’t even have to be smart; I was entitled to be educated and that completely changed my life.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Hall said the future that he has today was not meant for him and he thanked everyone who paved the way for him. “I am forever grateful and will continue to work hard to pay back that debt of gratitude that I owe to them,” said Hall thanking again his grandmother who “never saw an ounce” of his success and died in poverty. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He said the work that he does today is to honour her.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-91400239526907063292023-10-18T17:41:00.005-07:002023-10-18T17:45:21.490-07:00 Annual Health Conference Focuses on Enjoying Life Beyond Treatment for Prostate Cancer<p><span face="Calibri, sans-serif"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b> </b>By Neil Armstrong</span></span></p><p><br /></p><p><span face="Calibri, sans-serif"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSxwRq0OOfsC2XXarD3UTKShiAu58VGOUomCZLq5ivRW_Uz1pHfUdey6wWM5oPFmu62MobCM-8UsMFqq5FSbPam8khW5nQCyi0NcT7YkUIUB4LtEl2feKovdkGe8qEOz2_A5PrsXUD-KpnYInMIxRBNU8NYmMUAlZs3UhmOteaxx06q6kfZWuTFzD15t5/s828/Stacy%20Loeb%20Professional%20Headshot.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="828" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSxwRq0OOfsC2XXarD3UTKShiAu58VGOUomCZLq5ivRW_Uz1pHfUdey6wWM5oPFmu62MobCM-8UsMFqq5FSbPam8khW5nQCyi0NcT7YkUIUB4LtEl2feKovdkGe8qEOz2_A5PrsXUD-KpnYInMIxRBNU8NYmMUAlZs3UhmOteaxx06q6kfZWuTFzD15t5/w640-h640/Stacy%20Loeb%20Professional%20Headshot.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Dr. Stacy Loeb is a Professor of Urology and Population Health at NYU Langone Health and the Manhattan Veterans Affairs, specializing in prostate cancer.</td></tr></tbody></table><span face="Calibri, sans-serif"><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;">A diagnosis of prostate cancer and the ensuing treatment of it do not mean that a man cannot enjoy the rest of his life. The many ways in which he can do so will be explored at the upcoming free annual health conference of The Walnut Foundation titled Prostate Cancer Survivorship: Enjoying Life Beyond Treatment on Saturday, October 28, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. on Zoom.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;">The Foundation is a men’s health interest and prostate support group working with the Black community to identify the needs of Black men in the areas of health and related issues, and to provide a forum for discussion in a comfortable, safe and supportive environment. Black men are 76 percent more likely to get prostate cancer and 2.2 times more likely to die from it. If detected early, survival is nearly 100 per cent.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;">The conference brings experts in the field together with patients and patient advocates to improve understanding and best practices around prostate cancer care. The focus is on "survivorship" this year because the Foundation has found from its engagement with men in the community that many suffer with the aftereffects of treatment. They are treated but they need assistance with issues around incontinence, erectile dysfunction, sexuality and their relationships with their partners as well as maintenance issues.... What do I eat? How do I stay healthy? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;">"This conference aims to equip men and their partners with the tools to ensure better health outcomes pre-diagnosis, while in treatment and post- treatment," says Anthony Henry, President of The Walnut Foundation. </span><span style="background: repeat white; color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;">"Men have suffered in silence after a prostate cancer treatment and this conference is designed to provide the solutions to overcoming the challenges and enjoying life,” says Ken Noel, Executive Director.</span><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;">Among the experts that will be participating are Dr. Daniela Wittmann, Associate Professor Emerita of Urology, University of Michigan; Dr. Andrew Matthew, Associate Professor, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto; Dr. Stacy Loeb, Professor of Urology and Population Health; NYU School of Medicine; Nelly Faghani, PT, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, Pelvic Health Solutions; Dr. Daniel Santa Mina, Associate Professor, Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto; and Dr. Mike Fraser, Director, Cancer Programs Implementation, Movember. A couple prostate cancer survivors will also share their lived experience.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;">Registration for the conference, which is sponsored by Movember, is </span><a href="http://bit.ly/WalnutConference2023" style="color: #954f72;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;">http://bit.ly/WalnutConference2023</span></a><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;">.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEoy2ppgJC_B3dXb1i2riDm8nCQmPK-36kRoqRQUs6CdltWO4O-DF5Dkn-J1uAaj2kFPLY0qms6IH1EvHW-9KoZPQ-MnH47vj-qDN799Yxg_jEONHvLRRPwF8uItpWovQWUXMieDgfecHZfb7LAD_su0y5EPS5vdqow07iDjYPhKwdWRW_PHoJwdARFxBx/s791/Prostate%20Cancer%20Survivorship%20%E2%80%93%20Enjoying%20life%20beyond%20treatment.%20(2).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="612" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEoy2ppgJC_B3dXb1i2riDm8nCQmPK-36kRoqRQUs6CdltWO4O-DF5Dkn-J1uAaj2kFPLY0qms6IH1EvHW-9KoZPQ-MnH47vj-qDN799Yxg_jEONHvLRRPwF8uItpWovQWUXMieDgfecHZfb7LAD_su0y5EPS5vdqow07iDjYPhKwdWRW_PHoJwdARFxBx/w496-h640/Prostate%20Cancer%20Survivorship%20%E2%80%93%20Enjoying%20life%20beyond%20treatment.%20(2).png" width="496" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: center;"><br /></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-15800469965963130212023-10-18T14:55:00.002-07:002023-10-19T10:59:11.452-07:00Storyteller and Community Builder Itah Sadu Celebrated at University in Toronto<p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh27smk310nLKW6_g1IweuMS1M35KZW5XnWElpbNsKBDFKR7yePzvxoxHjDxa0r2cZbrGWmx1N7b2UWMCborg4T3cxdvGmOALTbLBDH5r52V9bYvs_xnqwrwCuC4jUMOk9QOuBtsDoUKSILavEMTC0F-6yeKNt1AfPobUK46sTB2EXv8FPYW28d9KVTA3XA/s3936/Hon%20Doc_Itah%20Sadu%20-7.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2624" data-original-width="3936" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh27smk310nLKW6_g1IweuMS1M35KZW5XnWElpbNsKBDFKR7yePzvxoxHjDxa0r2cZbrGWmx1N7b2UWMCborg4T3cxdvGmOALTbLBDH5r52V9bYvs_xnqwrwCuC4jUMOk9QOuBtsDoUKSILavEMTC0F-6yeKNt1AfPobUK46sTB2EXv8FPYW28d9KVTA3XA/w640-h426/Hon%20Doc_Itah%20Sadu%20-7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: York University Storyteller and community builder Itah Sadu is flanked by Chancellor Kathleen Taylor on the left and Vice-Chancellor and President Rhonda Lenton of York University</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">One of Canada’s most beloved storytellers, Itah Sadu, who is of Barbadian heritage, was lionized by York University in Toronto when her alma mater conferred on her an honorary Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, at its Fall Convocation.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Born in Scarborough, Ontario, and schooled in her early years in Barbados, she began writing stories because she wanted to see more of herself, and her community reflected in the books that were available to them. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">For more than two decades, Sadu and her husband, Miguel San Vicente, have owned A Different Booklist, a bookstore in Toronto that specializes in titles from African and Caribbean diasporas and the global south. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In addition to being an international bestselling author, she is the managing director of Blackhurst Cultural Centre – The People’s Residence, a community space that celebrates the rich cultures of Black-identified Canadians. “She is also a dynamic entrepreneur, an educator and community builder, and she utilizes leadership, creativity and teamwork to empower individuals and groups to effect real change — a perfect candidate for an honorary degree from York University,” said JJ McMutry, Dean of the Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies at the convocation held at the Sobeys Stadium at the university on October 12.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He noted that Sadu has created vital spaces and infrastructure for community development, adding that while she reflects on the importance of Black histories, she is equally focused on the future. “Her innovative annual Walk with Excellence lets graduating students from Jane and Finch neighbourhood share their achievements in a parade that ends here at York University. She is also behind the Emancipation Day Underground Freedom Train Ride in collaboration with the TTC [Toronto Transit Commission] in a nod to the legacy of American abolitionist and activist Harriet Tubman and the famed Underground Railroad.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Dean McMurty said in a time of great division and strife, Itah Sadu remains steadfast in her commitment to nurturing her community and by extension demonstrating what a culture of care can look like. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He presented her to Chancellor Kathleen Taylor to be bestowed the honorary degree<b> </b>“for her unfaltering dedication to community, equity and education.” A </span><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, is presented to honour someone<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="color: #040c28; font-family: Cambria, serif;">for excellence in areas including visionary</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">leaders, philanthropists, public intellectuals, community builders and others. </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyba5-PGIfMANR1NOp9RNmVDgIe3-K47eb7v4ppXc0AmVngORR1ZVCrao8-Vxwd5iTsuKATBpYKSNydUX5muz6SpWCPv7Nt_npz1vTqzxxsfvnbtaMl7vOSMXpPU7LTRGQ5HGOiMVdp-rI7Tim6DwI0d2BhF4DrFrPYIMlvmrTv1j3uMjPCY3yAUi9uy_8/s3936/Hon%20Doc_Itah%20Sadu%20-8.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2624" data-original-width="3936" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyba5-PGIfMANR1NOp9RNmVDgIe3-K47eb7v4ppXc0AmVngORR1ZVCrao8-Vxwd5iTsuKATBpYKSNydUX5muz6SpWCPv7Nt_npz1vTqzxxsfvnbtaMl7vOSMXpPU7LTRGQ5HGOiMVdp-rI7Tim6DwI0d2BhF4DrFrPYIMlvmrTv1j3uMjPCY3yAUi9uy_8/w640-h426/Hon%20Doc_Itah%20Sadu%20-8.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: York University Itah Sadu, who received an honorary degree, Doctor of Laws, honoris causa addresses the graduands</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Singing “This Little Light of Mine” as she approached the podium, Sadu said when she called her brother, Winston, in Barbados and told him that she was receiving an honorary doctorate from York University he was ecstatic.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">She said the late Jamaica-born Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in British Columbia, Rosemary Brown, who was the first African Canadian woman to become a member of a provincial legislature and the first woman to run for leadership of a federal political party once said: “We must open the doors and we must see to it they remain open, so that others can pass through.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The honorary degree recipient commended Chancellor Taylor, Rhonda Lenton, Vice-Chancellor and President, and deans and faculty for opening doors and keeping them open so that others could pass through. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Graduates, I hope you will open multiple doors in the future and be door jams and I’m even going to say door jammers so that others can pass through,” she said, reminding them that they can function in a world where different experiences, perspectives and points of view are to be valued.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">The community builder told the graduands that the great Canadian educator, Enid Lee, once said “and” is the biggest word in the world as it provides people with endless possibilities. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Don’t let yourself be limited to the word “or” but rather expose yourself to the power of the word “and” and its endless possibilities. In fact, York’s motto says it well — ‘</span><em><span style="color: #5f6368; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Tentanda via’</span></em><span style="background: repeat white; color: #4d5156; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> meaning ‘The way must be tried.’”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #4d5156; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">She advised them to equip themselves with the word “and” and to be the best door jammers they can be, “and in the words of the Barbados national anthem, continue to write your names on history’s page with expectations great, and when this happens you will in the words of the philanthropist and singer Rihanna, you will shine bright like diamonds because after all graduates this is your time to shine.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Reflecting on how she arrived at this milestone, Sadu thanked her mother, Gloria Emmaline Walcott, 91, who was sitting in the front row to witness the celebration of her daughter. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“My mother was among the group of twenty-five young women who were the first to arrive in Canada in 1955 through the Domestic Program as Canada opened up immigration from the Caribbean. My mother came from 96 degrees in the shade, real hot, to the dead of winter in Ottawa. These young women, like many of you seated here, were daughters, mothers, partners, teachers, nurses, secretaries. They came with skills, and they came to work in the homes of families thereby freeing Canadian women to enter the workplace.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">She said these women built a foundation on which many stand today. “They brought with them a work ethic, expectations to help their families back home, and to build a greater society here in Canada for future generations. My mother, like so many of you seated here, came from a country far away and just like you as she stepped foot on Canadian soil, she knew that a day like today was possible.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Emphasizing that these women were modelling the principle of giving back, an everyday activity, she urged the graduands to demonstrate it every day. “When you see policies that are unfair, change them — that’s giving back. When you see an injustice and you speak up and out, that’s giving back. When you say a word or a simple act of kindness, that is giving back, and know that giving back is altruistic and never ever, ever, transactional.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Sadu is the great granddaughter of Amanda Rawlins<b>, </b>who was born in Barbados in the 1800s and owned a bakery, and of Amanda Phillips who owned three rum shops and a car in the early 1900s. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Her stories taught me to be bold, daring and imaginative. And I am the granddaughter of entrepreneurs Fitz and Edna Walcott; my grandfather was a master builder in his time and my grandmother sold ice, plants, oil, and land. She was a woman who seized opportunities. Their home was a hub and a place of excitement.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Sadu underscored that<b> </b>the work that she has done and continues to do was planted many years ago in her DNA.<b> “</b>I am the daughter of independence movements and civil rights movements, a daughter of jazz, of reggae, of calypso and hip hop, therefore as someone who benefited from change it left no choice but to become an agent of change.” <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguojztuqCHnnIm1OcR6M8e98posGNf-ew57KecrziPFZ1aCTTDPjYcAVyyWnUIEzvrOkKCY_QB7OyCTwsTg12PM5-hRjTeOW2CXZacD9rL46KzODfdRVTtXtmpP-UVOgYa9Ytr_ElCtioI4v11G82VC_gpNM7t_COkFygRErQdOcYbMML-XdPtJvh2FQ84/s9504/Itah%20Sadu%20(Fall%20Convocation%202023)-5.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6336" data-original-width="9504" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguojztuqCHnnIm1OcR6M8e98posGNf-ew57KecrziPFZ1aCTTDPjYcAVyyWnUIEzvrOkKCY_QB7OyCTwsTg12PM5-hRjTeOW2CXZacD9rL46KzODfdRVTtXtmpP-UVOgYa9Ytr_ElCtioI4v11G82VC_gpNM7t_COkFygRErQdOcYbMML-XdPtJvh2FQ84/w640-h426/Itah%20Sadu%20(Fall%20Convocation%202023)-5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: York University Louis March congratulates Itah Sadu</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ymyM1MNAvdm4aAi7ZTmD2Sy_PU1dV2M2dmgm1pv8iGr3pr09EOSaFTXr2R3A69o5HOj5aIwmYkxXUuUzRI1xp8RZ65aFFKfwnLmtgXsCQ1witDPgkH4SxWbfEvaG-URBOnM1Etwpf78I2cIHbwOCJueh99ZZFyqVGi9Kc7DVLilV9ixqH0hNVPDuGhIy/s9504/Itah%20Sadu%20(Fall%20Convocation%202023)-10.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6336" data-original-width="9504" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ymyM1MNAvdm4aAi7ZTmD2Sy_PU1dV2M2dmgm1pv8iGr3pr09EOSaFTXr2R3A69o5HOj5aIwmYkxXUuUzRI1xp8RZ65aFFKfwnLmtgXsCQ1witDPgkH4SxWbfEvaG-URBOnM1Etwpf78I2cIHbwOCJueh99ZZFyqVGi9Kc7DVLilV9ixqH0hNVPDuGhIy/w640-h426/Itah%20Sadu%20(Fall%20Convocation%202023)-10.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: York University Family, friends and well-wishers of Itah Sadu</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Oscar Wailoo, a friend of Sadu who attended the convocation, said he was exhilarated because he has always called her the youngest of his six sisters. “I know for a fact that this bestowal of a doctorate on Itah was perfectly right because of what she has done through her work and the effect that her work has had on people in general — her writing, storytelling, the extraordinary things that she has done for this society — it was a slam dunk in my estimation that she had to have this. And it is a genuine doctorate.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Celebrated storyteller and Order of Canada recipient, Rita Cox, said the honour was well deserved and she saw it coming a long time ago because Itah Sadu uses her creativity and imagination to make things happen.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">“The thing is she gets things done so there are results every time that she ventures into an exercise. I know that she has the spirit, the understanding, the creativity and the goodwill for everybody. She is inclusive, she is wise beyond her years, and I am not surprised. I think she is heading for even higher honours.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOPKbNvlbvoE7W2VqL7LECh57msYjiW-lhrOqWpcWKIUmztCOXYCuxfB0UD3Zu42WvJYk6bNXyp92WBwBRqoPzn_7Z4-qK8lcimL5rbHB1mEX-sbGr3H_8_Q4lqpDRa_3BPu6zO2d8gIwkK96qXGzi8iq_pu-ClxJT32AHrU7cjVAMmqedl9I2B9BVXNzM/s4032/Itah's%20mother%20speaks%20at%20lunch%20after%20convocation.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOPKbNvlbvoE7W2VqL7LECh57msYjiW-lhrOqWpcWKIUmztCOXYCuxfB0UD3Zu42WvJYk6bNXyp92WBwBRqoPzn_7Z4-qK8lcimL5rbHB1mEX-sbGr3H_8_Q4lqpDRa_3BPu6zO2d8gIwkK96qXGzi8iq_pu-ClxJT32AHrU7cjVAMmqedl9I2B9BVXNzM/w480-h640/Itah's%20mother%20speaks%20at%20lunch%20after%20convocation.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gloria Walcott, mother of Itah Sadu, toasts her daughter at lunch after the Fall Convocation</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXMRuTPtdQnVCJee3JX2zu-2KDnAgsrLAeByPLB78zPpVy-zlXyVKdnujefhtts5Z7WU0gTPbaqAT0KkYv70y7i2qatsFuQFJ-UTwZz_NNfYr0X1AgRYIsltFERVyumWtQRsJ9bzLFyYNcJ5X6oQqnm7oCkhO5-gGvK1OrdoRT_gqSEVbkmenPMaUlPRvA/s4032/Itah%20and%20Veronica%20Sullivan.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXMRuTPtdQnVCJee3JX2zu-2KDnAgsrLAeByPLB78zPpVy-zlXyVKdnujefhtts5Z7WU0gTPbaqAT0KkYv70y7i2qatsFuQFJ-UTwZz_NNfYr0X1AgRYIsltFERVyumWtQRsJ9bzLFyYNcJ5X6oQqnm7oCkhO5-gGvK1OrdoRT_gqSEVbkmenPMaUlPRvA/w480-h640/Itah%20and%20Veronica%20Sullivan.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Itah Sadu and friend, Veronica Sullivan, who knew each other from their childhood years in Barbados</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;">In concluding her address to the over three hundred graduands, she thanked the storytelling, publishing, steelpan and Blackhurst communities, and people with whom she worked on various projects such as Pam Campbell, architect Judah Malalu, pannist Wendy Jones and educator Karen Murray for all the heavy lifting as they co-create a better world. Sadu also acknowledged the support of her husband, Miguel, daughter Sojourner Monifa, and “talented community niece,” Shannon Ashman. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background: repeat white; color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-90497382653530272832023-10-07T08:33:00.001-07:002023-10-08T06:22:10.654-07:00Three-day Annual Black and Caribbean Book Affair Opens on October 12 at Blackhurst Cultural Centre in Toronto<p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 14pt;">By Neil Armstrong</span></span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3CdaTozIh8yJYgUmKu41xtTz1CiFRI020xNSenRPbwSW5mv-e4HmFwk_CD75p0DeJEXfclKc2kvdPRRdnXdcjUdTXfUuD36Na4_-t6d7xhAfp8JB__qafzaudcAUvuVpx6wlZNejU9Hr2l6UEfp6LaZaHIx8R9-2U_mKNn8YsOF1s1qmCbNAb2AMyJ6P/s5760/Kemba%20Byam%20headshot.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3840" data-original-width="5760" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3CdaTozIh8yJYgUmKu41xtTz1CiFRI020xNSenRPbwSW5mv-e4HmFwk_CD75p0DeJEXfclKc2kvdPRRdnXdcjUdTXfUuD36Na4_-t6d7xhAfp8JB__qafzaudcAUvuVpx6wlZNejU9Hr2l6UEfp6LaZaHIx8R9-2U_mKNn8YsOF1s1qmCbNAb2AMyJ6P/w640-h426/Kemba%20Byam%20headshot.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Kemba Byam, Acting Manager of the Confronting Anti-Black Racism Unit (CABR), City of Toronto</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: large;"></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>The three-day annual Black and Caribbean Book Affair, October 12-14, 2023, promises insightful discussions, celebrations of books, the presentation of the My People Award, and more at Blackhurst Cultural Centre, 777 Bathurst Street in Toronto, Canada.<p></p><p><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: medium;">The following is the schedule of the programming over the three days. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 16pt;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 16pt;">Theme: </span></b><b><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; font-size: 14pt;">Books Open Our Worldview, Bans Limit It.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; font-size: 14pt;">Tagline: “Affirming African presence and history, no erasure here — </span></i></b><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; font-size: 14pt;">International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024)”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 16pt;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHb-q85HVYZVdJVp7yB2Z12zw7vw-uKBvhm9lBvbemvz6J-C8ND_rem1_XcBXS5EMTsOxXh-ULZzYGjeamqpAlsEkj6urTLDcZ5kmaYiTfRqB3uh0ivEnWISt9vlk5pTzRSbJonFq5KTsjHYaxwcVo0fSr6YUnAlx19Fz071o7o2kUHKlX23Z87FkktOQ_/s4032/Standing%20Heavy%20cover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHb-q85HVYZVdJVp7yB2Z12zw7vw-uKBvhm9lBvbemvz6J-C8ND_rem1_XcBXS5EMTsOxXh-ULZzYGjeamqpAlsEkj6urTLDcZ5kmaYiTfRqB3uh0ivEnWISt9vlk5pTzRSbJonFq5KTsjHYaxwcVo0fSr6YUnAlx19Fz071o7o2kUHKlX23Z87FkktOQ_/w480-h640/Standing%20Heavy%20cover.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVPtawhkLPBoC-cMVkvlC8VH3YR6EkzSa8Z6t76m7Y5VfAdUjUghoNuckilTjjy8EAlGCmuqq3JmJ88LfbhS7Tv7dwLppke5FLh66rUcZBJv2xl4jVaJxbx2MvMMW-X9CBl7bxzxPPW7lCwslLM9coBzqRctsvslI_OdqzUxrKWue2xOuGhnkT5-CAvWWw/s2015/Sarah%20Onyango%20headshot.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2015" data-original-width="2000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVPtawhkLPBoC-cMVkvlC8VH3YR6EkzSa8Z6t76m7Y5VfAdUjUghoNuckilTjjy8EAlGCmuqq3JmJ88LfbhS7Tv7dwLppke5FLh66rUcZBJv2xl4jVaJxbx2MvMMW-X9CBl7bxzxPPW7lCwslLM9coBzqRctsvslI_OdqzUxrKWue2xOuGhnkT5-CAvWWw/w636-h640/Sarah%20Onyango%20headshot.jpg" width="636" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Sarah Onyango will interview GauZ' about his novel, <i>Standing Heavy, </i>which was shortlisted for the 2023 International Booker Prize.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; font-size: 14pt;">Thursday, October 12, 2023 <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB">6:00-8:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Opening of the <b>Black and Caribbean Book Affair</b>, Reflections on the <b>International Decade for People of African Descent </b>(2015-2024 by <b>Kemba Byam, </b>Acting Manager, City of Toronto’s Confronting Anti-Black Racism Unit, the presentation of the <b>My People Award </b>to children's literature author <b>Yolanda T. Marshall, </b>and a virtual Conversation with <b>GauZ’</b> (Armand Patrick Gbaka-Brédé<b>)</b> about his book, <b>Standing Heavy</b>, now published in English. </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; color: #0f1111;">Biblioasis. He will be interviewed by Ottawa-based translator and radio and television personality, <b>Sarah Onyango</b>, on Zoom.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Shortlisted for the 2023 International Booker Prize. A funny, fast-paced, and poignant take on Franco-African history, as told through the eyes of three African security guards in Paris.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTRDCSRV4-vpCP1sFoICwUufOoGBLsYslIW6vLhs2FGFjJTIbBCdioylycohD1WedY5nUliIFrGOLfLO_UkiH4MgkcZB3muGtor1yskz48yp2BpRyZ6tep8fceP2gPR_W3vQvrkOgvOTI3dP_bt-fdgTnRC6Ah7gbBbkMJoOS4WbwKTYKWoZp0dQa7u2kL/s512/We%20Remember%20the%20Black%20Battalion%20cover.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTRDCSRV4-vpCP1sFoICwUufOoGBLsYslIW6vLhs2FGFjJTIbBCdioylycohD1WedY5nUliIFrGOLfLO_UkiH4MgkcZB3muGtor1yskz48yp2BpRyZ6tep8fceP2gPR_W3vQvrkOgvOTI3dP_bt-fdgTnRC6Ah7gbBbkMJoOS4WbwKTYKWoZp0dQa7u2kL/w640-h640/We%20Remember%20the%20Black%20Battalion%20cover.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3lhAUzvEnJE7cbtolRe9mUw1cxUvJa4hCcDTw2p0TM_vD3uBN5tA237rB17qLGHXC9i6OEI3D4lGTA1W6pgNmQa_R425Pk_TJ4F-1e3OsG8gvCS2X1PAzmDJB4IURujPTDezZP_gyRBrKdIFDO1ozxc_lxNoCaqQz_ghZGpRvZJRPWt9azjU9fsusWJpo/s5032/Kathy%20Grant%20Bio%20Pic.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2814" data-original-width="5032" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3lhAUzvEnJE7cbtolRe9mUw1cxUvJa4hCcDTw2p0TM_vD3uBN5tA237rB17qLGHXC9i6OEI3D4lGTA1W6pgNmQa_R425Pk_TJ4F-1e3OsG8gvCS2X1PAzmDJB4IURujPTDezZP_gyRBrKdIFDO1ozxc_lxNoCaqQz_ghZGpRvZJRPWt9azjU9fsusWJpo/w640-h358/Kathy%20Grant%20Bio%20Pic.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Community historian Kathy Grant will host a presentation of Serena Virk's book, <i>We Remember the Black Battalion</i>, for students and teachers.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; font-size: 14pt;">Friday, October 13, 2023 <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB">10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. </span></b><span lang="EN-GB">—<i> </i>(an event for students and teachers) — <b>We Remember the Black Battalion </b>by <b>Serena Virk. </b>FriesenPress. Deijaumar Clarke of Blackhurst Cultural Centre will introduce <b>Kathy Grant</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Have you heard of No. 2 Construction Battalion? It is never too late to learn about No. 2 Construction Battalion, also known as the Black Battalion. In the First World War, when so many brave young men enlisted to fight, there were many Black men who wanted to join, but many were denied. Instead, the Black Battalion was created.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsiFKBzbcIMyFSb_Ar-bw3s5Kk_BSMLW00h_4Z5QWRTJGy1xVkUEybK_72jGkIZz70HzM7PyjFdETScZHSweul4MGae4iuGlPWjWR3hzmQZnq28nTcJ79HpIZ0XOPa75FEHbg7y2_4RIzjv7X8WbULhddg9qmia9wA1S-Z2HXyvJQl3qHrX0ea4bG-_19E/s5215/Kern%20Daley%20headshot.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5215" data-original-width="4500" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsiFKBzbcIMyFSb_Ar-bw3s5Kk_BSMLW00h_4Z5QWRTJGy1xVkUEybK_72jGkIZz70HzM7PyjFdETScZHSweul4MGae4iuGlPWjWR3hzmQZnq28nTcJ79HpIZ0XOPa75FEHbg7y2_4RIzjv7X8WbULhddg9qmia9wA1S-Z2HXyvJQl3qHrX0ea4bG-_19E/w552-h640/Kern%20Daley%20headshot.jpg" width="552" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Illustrator Ken Daley will host a presentation for students and teachers on what in involved in illustrating books</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB">1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. </span></b><span lang="EN-GB">—<i> </i>(an event for students and teachers) — Illustrator <b>Ken Daley </b>opens the world of illustration and books to young people. Iman Hassan of A Different Booklist will introduce him.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJIIWFf2SIRntgc9GKcLofr75T31SNYj58MUnA_Me-gbauoX-BgC3b6drU3A1uXYLzTDwP17rRLND5G17gxCdEY2IiSeThty1ajOHFD4ZqU2jNJjIkMnruASjENQ-kZcDvPir9_kk6PL5a8AN2NJKCq_U-V5XC_mXmhVL8CRziTEUz2-34A9Fj8kYKZ2R-/s4032/The%20Letter%20cover%20by%20Sheila%20White.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJIIWFf2SIRntgc9GKcLofr75T31SNYj58MUnA_Me-gbauoX-BgC3b6drU3A1uXYLzTDwP17rRLND5G17gxCdEY2IiSeThty1ajOHFD4ZqU2jNJjIkMnruASjENQ-kZcDvPir9_kk6PL5a8AN2NJKCq_U-V5XC_mXmhVL8CRziTEUz2-34A9Fj8kYKZ2R-/w480-h640/The%20Letter%20cover%20by%20Sheila%20White.jpg" width="480" /></a></b></div><b><br /><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB">6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">Book Launch — Sheila White in Conversation with Itah Sadu about her book, </span></b><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">The Letters: Postmark Prejudice in Black and White. </span></i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">Yorkland Publishing. <b> </b>Author Gayle Gonsalves will introduce them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><i><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></i></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Vivian Keeler is an intelligent, attractive and determined white woman from a traditional Nova Scotia family who risks it all by falling in love with a Black man. Billy White is a charismatic and gifted member of a prominent Black family; he’s the brother of celebrated classical singer Portia White and the son of a renowned Black minister who garnered fame as an officer during the First World War. <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVi7rij1L-wQ33_z1IQauIss0tP-ACrbz3Y9_KqShCOcGG2u4ZzEYCToltvnzXwNQLkf7WCSHvzJY-UmMbIjQIxGbYFfWwt-sHDPunL93_o7E2uJK2Xrj42EYIIPXsVxAPHT2x0eFO22M2jOyFWpTX8XRT70xDFS8c9BRV5ZuB_8Q1ZuSxK2XsUM5h15W/s960/Kwame%20Scott%20Fraser%20Headshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVi7rij1L-wQ33_z1IQauIss0tP-ACrbz3Y9_KqShCOcGG2u4ZzEYCToltvnzXwNQLkf7WCSHvzJY-UmMbIjQIxGbYFfWwt-sHDPunL93_o7E2uJK2Xrj42EYIIPXsVxAPHT2x0eFO22M2jOyFWpTX8XRT70xDFS8c9BRV5ZuB_8Q1ZuSxK2XsUM5h15W/w640-h640/Kwame%20Scott%20Fraser%20Headshot.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Kwame Scott Fraser, P<span style="font-family: -webkit-standard;">resident and Publisher of Dundurn Press</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KamrljYKPq6pJVAqmPCxLZ6s5vMx0kB0opI-xNR3b6-2JhqJxFOC2ZKldQI0Gimq8bf9sTU6OcCB0BKJyy-g_5d7tFSCaITFlrG6OeSAmk9_CrSTo3gCGmF6SmVHjEQX4yiHV1gSjOPMdy1YP9qLd8d20sQPAXdm7KNmscoHOg_afZBoaPr5yMr634g1/s792/Maria%20Martella%20headshot.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="612" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KamrljYKPq6pJVAqmPCxLZ6s5vMx0kB0opI-xNR3b6-2JhqJxFOC2ZKldQI0Gimq8bf9sTU6OcCB0BKJyy-g_5d7tFSCaITFlrG6OeSAmk9_CrSTo3gCGmF6SmVHjEQX4yiHV1gSjOPMdy1YP9qLd8d20sQPAXdm7KNmscoHOg_afZBoaPr5yMr634g1/w494-h640/Maria%20Martella%20headshot.png" width="494" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Maria Martelle, Owner of Tinlids Inc. Both publishers will host the workshop about book distribution</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 14pt;">Saturday, October 14<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><b>10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. — Workshop: The World of Distribution – the Dos and Don’ts </b>with<b> publishers </b></span><span lang="EN-GB"><b>Maria Martella </b>and <b>Kwame Scott Fraser. </b>Geeta Raghunanan of A Different Booklist will introduce them.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWalVugEZxqv3BVbvwM4oOoYd2SNYmmZVqQd44Z5V2JHfYukt4lUbHH96QAqwYQiZ5GYXib1b37Rlax-YtUlbiuIyByi5dqKS8sXXniwMrBi7sx8baFBqSryWOeiLi0Zn45I-YeuOSAhSAK9-GpN52JNy9WGAjV1ocv5GeFjz6LUeX8lm8BEozwBvKaQvw/s4032/Audley%20Enough%20cover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWalVugEZxqv3BVbvwM4oOoYd2SNYmmZVqQd44Z5V2JHfYukt4lUbHH96QAqwYQiZ5GYXib1b37Rlax-YtUlbiuIyByi5dqKS8sXXniwMrBi7sx8baFBqSryWOeiLi0Zn45I-YeuOSAhSAK9-GpN52JNy9WGAjV1ocv5GeFjz6LUeX8lm8BEozwBvKaQvw/w480-h640/Audley%20Enough%20cover.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB">11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.</span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> —<b> “Audley Enough: A Portrait of Triumph and Recovery in the Face of Mania and Depression.” </b>Written by Lesley Whyte Redford and Patricia Lavoie. </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; color: #0f1111;">Tellwell Talent.</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; color: #0f1111; font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB"><b>Audley </b>will sign copies of the book and be interviewed about being the subject of it.<b> </b>The host will be poet and educator</span><span lang="EN-GB"> Michelle Muir.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqiHYzwpSkS5N8npzhJRhziliZmzKHtFWjZpnLKkvKheWFuO6g7ldoiKBH0YRiEh8tmN_B7WEFOApz5gnvk6OUZoiIwHzsId1nF4gQ3ijdqW-OeY0FF8bI_D2M-EHcq4E_NLzf5O8tHzaJbI-pOx7jmu7-vFdB-m4l2OExMcn971KrzbfOAc5QJjuhzIhp/s1080/STORYTIME%20AND%20STEEL%20PANS%20LITERARY%20CBBFAIR%20AND%20CULTURE%20DAYS.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqiHYzwpSkS5N8npzhJRhziliZmzKHtFWjZpnLKkvKheWFuO6g7ldoiKBH0YRiEh8tmN_B7WEFOApz5gnvk6OUZoiIwHzsId1nF4gQ3ijdqW-OeY0FF8bI_D2M-EHcq4E_NLzf5O8tHzaJbI-pOx7jmu7-vFdB-m4l2OExMcn971KrzbfOAc5QJjuhzIhp/w640-h640/STORYTIME%20AND%20STEEL%20PANS%20LITERARY%20CBBFAIR%20AND%20CULTURE%20DAYS.png" width="640" /></a></b></div><b><br /><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB">1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.</span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> — <b>Yolanda Marshall </b>and <b>Suzette Vidale — “Culture Days”<o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">It will be a storytime and steel pan event. Yolanda and Suzette Vidale will be incorporating reading and soca music for kids.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjflM_dp5WHfeyxWvrJNYJnEN4p-ZgnoeB0963EVOa0BTC-8dTGpyZjJr6VwmDLzAXg6sf91vREJzLmDjer5c1SKNVaxf7ZllJcNFEwuRmMZtpZ3DSN4Q9_OyPpD9Xfhjy5XWaDEgOVuNRH-Cl1qdlERzDSomSwCBLXpewbtgBbB9BX7ZxD29eR_tEWK8zc/s1200/The%20Antiracist%20Kitchen%20cover.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="876" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjflM_dp5WHfeyxWvrJNYJnEN4p-ZgnoeB0963EVOa0BTC-8dTGpyZjJr6VwmDLzAXg6sf91vREJzLmDjer5c1SKNVaxf7ZllJcNFEwuRmMZtpZ3DSN4Q9_OyPpD9Xfhjy5XWaDEgOVuNRH-Cl1qdlERzDSomSwCBLXpewbtgBbB9BX7ZxD29eR_tEWK8zc/w468-h640/The%20Antiracist%20Kitchen%20cover.JPG" width="468" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQZZl0IFHAlPKxnz3ukWIxI3sapmpVUT9Vx-ztUWCQ3BHdo2odPZ4V2Am0eAKm594qxo1SOMqfPIA6jQU8sOk_G3lxdZ6aPt7lWdMZwyMs-tqiovZcT1u2A-MgpuPnMBnYKCX8asfdQ821GmnkIaVmNcMj6uvh-zmtuu3qKIEp8nQ0ZpKPESEd4wILKmp/s1920/Nadia%20Hohn%20by%20Lawrence%20Kerr.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQZZl0IFHAlPKxnz3ukWIxI3sapmpVUT9Vx-ztUWCQ3BHdo2odPZ4V2Am0eAKm594qxo1SOMqfPIA6jQU8sOk_G3lxdZ6aPt7lWdMZwyMs-tqiovZcT1u2A-MgpuPnMBnYKCX8asfdQ821GmnkIaVmNcMj6uvh-zmtuu3qKIEp8nQ0ZpKPESEd4wILKmp/w426-h640/Nadia%20Hohn%20by%20Lawrence%20Kerr.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Lawrence Kerr Author Nadia L. Hohn </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB">2:30-3:15 p.m. </span></b><span lang="EN-GB">— <b>Book Presentation — Nadia L. Hohn, The Antiracist Kitchen: 21 Stories (and Recipes). </b>Orca Book Publishers. Author Gayle Gonsalves will introduce her.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">An anthology featuring stories and recipes from racialized authors about food, culture and resistance.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">What if talking about racism was as easy as baking a cake, frying plantains or cooking rice? The Antiracist Kitchen: 21 Stories (and Recipes) is a celebration of food, family, activism and resistance in the face of racism. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_BYDu_4MPASdtqUZz1l7S02qiMWNrfYT7ihAmMGwHSiW9acfTm12fEuG-PHxMD6ulqar_v4FVcVAlDQ-W82Ay82YRKGlDaw9yK_SXgkN6wGDeaeFewKvEyvzl3JQNLofx8yzPy4L8xxIWLCp_ulCStrbbyJXjLfLed6aC2nIqHiX7TQLuBANyhGPAcVG5/s2550/Songs%20of%20Irie_COVER.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2550" data-original-width="1651" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_BYDu_4MPASdtqUZz1l7S02qiMWNrfYT7ihAmMGwHSiW9acfTm12fEuG-PHxMD6ulqar_v4FVcVAlDQ-W82Ay82YRKGlDaw9yK_SXgkN6wGDeaeFewKvEyvzl3JQNLofx8yzPy4L8xxIWLCp_ulCStrbbyJXjLfLed6aC2nIqHiX7TQLuBANyhGPAcVG5/w414-h640/Songs%20of%20Irie_COVER.jpg" width="414" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29OOAqUXKs2FkuAcarT42D3vfE_YhhBBzYTRo7uj0wOceoEFo091zxFhtr8_-c4FLGgw5Tbww4heR23vBJBPhha8TZbZEO4Kd30bJhoviC2z-e7DT5qKwVHgQl9iyX2EDIt3REBxFmX0wc_OzyomRtUnWkrZsZhmTUPS6oRBFaboX9vl9CQxQ7jHt4Nvo/s648/Asha%20Ashanti%20Bromfield_Author%20Photo.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="432" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29OOAqUXKs2FkuAcarT42D3vfE_YhhBBzYTRo7uj0wOceoEFo091zxFhtr8_-c4FLGgw5Tbww4heR23vBJBPhha8TZbZEO4Kd30bJhoviC2z-e7DT5qKwVHgQl9iyX2EDIt3REBxFmX0wc_OzyomRtUnWkrZsZhmTUPS6oRBFaboX9vl9CQxQ7jHt4Nvo/w426-h640/Asha%20Ashanti%20Bromfield_Author%20Photo.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Author Asha Bromfield</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9ZDKS6iYc7gwABqM7_3rCJbcxK8Usp3-_Z4Q4Zmi1e1syqBVCKD2hsxmvja4mM0_ZFk0wyVXQOFe60OYNo9g0u_mGDZmeC2W1d0bLLQgSFySnU6U5yVNJGioct-NoQYNKi8l8WuQ3TW_wuGS4RWOv8pLnkqvZTaMj0G_YxgUlrziTLGIZ6Fh0-NT1ZUj/s4295/Gayle%20Gonsalves.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4295" data-original-width="2863" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9ZDKS6iYc7gwABqM7_3rCJbcxK8Usp3-_Z4Q4Zmi1e1syqBVCKD2hsxmvja4mM0_ZFk0wyVXQOFe60OYNo9g0u_mGDZmeC2W1d0bLLQgSFySnU6U5yVNJGioct-NoQYNKi8l8WuQ3TW_wuGS4RWOv8pLnkqvZTaMj0G_YxgUlrziTLGIZ6Fh0-NT1ZUj/w426-h640/Gayle%20Gonsalves.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Author Gayle Gonsalves</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB">3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.</span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> —<i> </i><b>Book Launch — Songs of Irie </b>by<b> </b></span><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">Asha Bromfield.</span></b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;"> MacMillan Publishers. Asha will be in conversation with author Gayle Gonsalves.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Perfect for fans of The Black Kids, Songs of Irie is a sweeping coming-of-age novel from Asha Bromfield about a budding romance struggling to survive amidst the Jamaican civil unrest of the 1970s.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibMhsAXdfFkfRvTdSSC84P4IjHAB6iwybbfrlCwljAxoxAWv0omICDf9LjK7IJCd3nA3t169e3qLtk733by6rgVzNi36zF8gOubIEI6Fa1N_-j11LeXN68iNdp6hQOAfb2I-d2sGXwW4Ae9cimwX14V0zMPOhAPwioNyGoBEeoQ-FGAa4v5fYQjFa0MtHC/s950/KarenFlynn.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="869" data-original-width="950" height="586" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibMhsAXdfFkfRvTdSSC84P4IjHAB6iwybbfrlCwljAxoxAWv0omICDf9LjK7IJCd3nA3t169e3qLtk733by6rgVzNi36zF8gOubIEI6Fa1N_-j11LeXN68iNdp6hQOAfb2I-d2sGXwW4Ae9cimwX14V0zMPOhAPwioNyGoBEeoQ-FGAa4v5fYQjFa0MtHC/w640-h586/KarenFlynn.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Karen Flynn, Associate Professor, Department of Women and Gender Studies and the Department of African-American Studies Program, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj94jp4mabmI6cleZUaI5d96cno6i_3pO-uvXBhKaH6nOPdeuXViacnVeNHJPxtgJ66oA_rmIvChw0jnIh_N92V47CEb12aK4rsZxiQajUqm8hhVpP0sbg_-usEHNupAY5kfXIJWH2x6VQs9TQ_cPk4y-BK7lHCZAKAEq7-xrPcrdwRx8fgTifg-xwYbRLt/s1600/Funke%20Aladejebi.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1383" data-original-width="1600" height="554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj94jp4mabmI6cleZUaI5d96cno6i_3pO-uvXBhKaH6nOPdeuXViacnVeNHJPxtgJ66oA_rmIvChw0jnIh_N92V47CEb12aK4rsZxiQajUqm8hhVpP0sbg_-usEHNupAY5kfXIJWH2x6VQs9TQ_cPk4y-BK7lHCZAKAEq7-xrPcrdwRx8fgTifg-xwYbRLt/w640-h554/Funke%20Aladejebi.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed <span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; text-align: left;">Dr.<i> </i></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; text-align: left;">Funké Aladejebi, Assistant Professor, Department of History, University of Toronto<br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKiXsMJpFoCYGaX1zc6ScYS-G98QNkXRDGO9BA4LfvM9HPlkDlehKv1ya0TGhwUKvlpdYJ6te10lfxwCh4xW9xVChj03rgXyoqcitjbp6SADJlRKUJGaMHVBcr8ZIMMUsgeGk5OdTarGs-Sfs3-jKiEZ73e_RFywl-o3rUE16T7mhRh_ZCQ-1btIQ7VPLo/s1080/Catherine%20Grant-Wata.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKiXsMJpFoCYGaX1zc6ScYS-G98QNkXRDGO9BA4LfvM9HPlkDlehKv1ya0TGhwUKvlpdYJ6te10lfxwCh4xW9xVChj03rgXyoqcitjbp6SADJlRKUJGaMHVBcr8ZIMMUsgeGk5OdTarGs-Sfs3-jKiEZ73e_RFywl-o3rUE16T7mhRh_ZCQ-1btIQ7VPLo/w640-h640/Catherine%20Grant-Wata.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Catherine Grant-Wata, PhD candidate, Department of History, University of Toronto</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">5:00-6:30 p.m.</span></b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; font-family: Helvetica;">— </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">Scholars</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; font-family: Helvetica;"> </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">Dr</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; font-family: Helvetica;">. </span><span lang="EN-GB">Karen Flynn,<i> </i>Dr.<i> </i></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Funké Aladejebi and PhD candidate Catherine Grant-Wata<b> </b>in conversation about</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;"> “</span><b><span lang="EN-GB">Black Women, Oral History and Social Activism in Canada” </span></b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> As the keepers of memories, communities, and family histories, Black women lives and experiences respond to important silences, gaps, and omissions often missing, buried, or unrecorded in traditional archives and national histories. In this session, three Black women historians, at different stages in their careers, explore ways to collate, tell, and preserve the life stories of Black women in Canada. In conversation with community members, we will consider how oral histories challenge traditional historical narratives and why it is important for Black women to tell their histories on their own terms. Building on the works of Karen Flynn’s <i>Moving Beyond Borders and </i></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Funké Aladejebi’s <i>Schooling the System, </i>this session will explore the ways oral history projects can shift conversations in Canadian history and reveal the significance of Black women’s lived experience and ways of knowing.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><b><span style="color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY-e618IgskTMhyphenhyphenOTGJpOMnuu-bmY9v9HFRbBCL7PlBZkJfAZHfV5z2H99-mddYHpZPNmZ6x3lf4lBTX4HFPRAFRaseYH8s3lRsHyTIPcPnGCi-RfjLFQJ7oSt4h-7hl7cPg2QKbBr_pf8xD59UBO8BbfzInHDxhkDx-JX1vfKs6btkd3aMcjycvriwrYU/s2000/Black%20and%20Caribbean%20Revised%20Flyer.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1414" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY-e618IgskTMhyphenhyphenOTGJpOMnuu-bmY9v9HFRbBCL7PlBZkJfAZHfV5z2H99-mddYHpZPNmZ6x3lf4lBTX4HFPRAFRaseYH8s3lRsHyTIPcPnGCi-RfjLFQJ7oSt4h-7hl7cPg2QKbBr_pf8xD59UBO8BbfzInHDxhkDx-JX1vfKs6btkd3aMcjycvriwrYU/w452-h640/Black%20and%20Caribbean%20Revised%20Flyer.jpg" width="452" /></a></div><br /><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB">The 2023 Black and Caribbean Book Affair is Supported by:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; color: #0f1111;">Biblioasis</span><span lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Yorkland Publishing<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Orca Book Publishers<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">MacMillian Publishers<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Toronto Arts Council<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Caribbean Camera<o:p></o:p></span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-25545717652679793162023-09-29T09:57:00.003-07:002023-09-29T09:57:40.733-07:00Travel Advisor Diana Winters Wins Edith Baxter Memorial Award<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgna9m9-dXll-faPzDC-KQqd_FoVq_G-sRhgxGV8QG2qmIFtnpgS-E3ssPqOu616-jrvZCkavt_uZ3oZ8uTS02NvPhLIXu4EKfvOcEwLFX97ne6s-8zcgJaZ7L-zwXIfZprfQXWytmgkbsQ-fWA1q3S972B2KZ5i-0AkB9kNVlkWj_qYxoDKuEYO2hKxx75/s2016/Wendy%20McClung%20Diana%20Winters%20and%20Edmund%20Bartlett.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgna9m9-dXll-faPzDC-KQqd_FoVq_G-sRhgxGV8QG2qmIFtnpgS-E3ssPqOu616-jrvZCkavt_uZ3oZ8uTS02NvPhLIXu4EKfvOcEwLFX97ne6s-8zcgJaZ7L-zwXIfZprfQXWytmgkbsQ-fWA1q3S972B2KZ5i-0AkB9kNVlkWj_qYxoDKuEYO2hKxx75/w480-h640/Wendy%20McClung%20Diana%20Winters%20and%20Edmund%20Bartlett.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; text-align: left;">Left to right: Wendy McClung, executive vice president, Baxter Media; Diana Winters, and Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Government of Jamaica</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">A seasoned Canadian travel advisorl has won the Edith Baxter Memorial Award which was founded in 2021 and biennially recognizes outstanding individuals who leverage their influence to promote the positive advancement of Jamaica’s tourist industry and/or Jamaican culture within Canada.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Diana Winters, who has worked in the tourism industry for close to 30 years and gives back to communities in both Canada and Jamaica, was among five finalists shortlisted and was named the grand prize winner at the Edith Baxter Memorial Award luncheon organized by the Jamaica Tourist Board at the Toronto Region Board of Trade on September 22.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“She has been an unwavering advocate for Destination Jamaica throughout her career as a travel advisor and in her roles with tour operators and hoteliers. During her time at Palace Resorts, Diana discovered her philanthropical side while working with the company’s </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit, serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">Fundación Palace Resorts program. Branching out on her own, Winters has undertaken numerous independent charitable initiatives to encourage support for the people of Jamaica,” read a biographical note about her.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">It said Winters has organized philanthropic trips for Canadian travel agents to build homes and schools on the island, raised funds for local medical clinics, and launched a donation drive during the pandemic to collect tablets, laptops and other education supplies.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Winters was awarded a luxury all-inclusive vacation for two to Jamaica courtesy of award partners Sandals Resorts and Air Canada Vacations at the luncheon held at the Toronto Board of Trade near the city’s waterfront. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“We are all doing great things one person at a time,” said Winters who was honoured that she was the recipient of an award named after Edith Baxter. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Jamaica’s minister of tourism, Edmund Bartlett, director of tourism Donovan White, and minister of state in the ministry of foreign affairs and foreign trade, Alando Terrelonge, also responsible for diaspora affairs — who was in Toronto to present the keynote address at the Regional Jamaica Diaspora Conference (Canada) the next day —were in attendance.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The commemorative award program was established in partnership with the Baxter family in memory of Canadian travel industry publishing icon Edith Baxter. In keeping with the competition’s namesake, the five finalists were selected based on their strong character and outstanding efforts toward promoting and advocating for Destination Jamaica. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 18pt;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">As co-founder of Baxter Media and editor-in-chief of Canada’s most influential travel trade publication, <i>Canadian Travel Press</i>, Edith Baxter was a powerful voice within the Canadian travel industry for more than five decades. A passionate advocate for Destination Jamaica, she was awarded the Order of Distinction by the Government of Jamaica in 2009 in recognition of her contributions to the tourism industry</span><span style="font-family: Roboto;">.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 18pt;"><span style="background: white; color: #404f57; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Born Edith Newman in Usti nad Labem, in the former Czechoslovakia, on December 30, 1927, Edith spent her youth in England before coming to Canada at the end of WWII with her husband, William, her parents, and sister. She passed away on November 3, 2020, at home, surrounded by her family.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">White described Baxter as a savvy businesswoman who loved Jamaica and Bartlett said he recommended in 2009 that she be given the Order of Distinction.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmHK07I_xKNt12vv0688VZ8gfNmUj6VA3Ri0SSGToqgUUem5Zxqnb7f_VzoVWcDQj_tlhzW-uegy-nZ0aETQFdAPfpz2rqKM5wEiDqxVn52dvdqew_vDZoPhcCWW0SzBYVJng3OlEB-nKzPSKEgM329uw1oSv4yu7hmLTYtrj_932j6FD67IKtuLM1mejx/s960/Edith%20Baxter%20Award%20finalists.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmHK07I_xKNt12vv0688VZ8gfNmUj6VA3Ri0SSGToqgUUem5Zxqnb7f_VzoVWcDQj_tlhzW-uegy-nZ0aETQFdAPfpz2rqKM5wEiDqxVn52dvdqew_vDZoPhcCWW0SzBYVJng3OlEB-nKzPSKEgM329uw1oSv4yu7hmLTYtrj_932j6FD67IKtuLM1mejx/w640-h480/Edith%20Baxter%20Award%20finalists.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The five finalists of the Edith Baxter Memorial Award with tourism and travel industry figures from Canada and Jamaica</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The other finalists were Jamaican-Canadians storyteller and speaker Sandra Whiting, saxophonist and humanitarian Dave McLaughlin and media professional Simone Smith, and Guyanese-Canadian veteran journalist and photographer, Ron Fanfair.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The finalists were shortlisted by a panel of four judges: Angella Bennett, regional director, Jamaica Tourist Board, Canada; Wendy McClung, executive vice president, Baxter Media; Lincoln G. Downer, now former consul general of Jamaica at Toronto; and Kelly Schmitt, president and co-founder, Spoiled Agent.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Minister Bartlett, host of the event, spoke of the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre that collaborating with Dr. Gervan Fearon, president of George Brown College, he established at the college in Toronto. He is also having discussions with McMaster University in Hamilton and Carleton University in Ottawa and has set up similar centres in eight countries.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">The Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre is a transformative tool which seeks to safeguard and improve the tourism product in Jamaica and countries around the world as well to ensure the sustainability of tourism globally.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_7diMm7qUOK_igus4xnY4VpJa0nlZ8zXOj56a-ZjsJQstnW4ipjbzjwEwgiKqySfkim81bAp9sYMv_hGP45RXNrP0wy_7MRBhFSAzzf7HGwaSDRpLQETXLo80I34bsF-ZeGknAtMUKImdxuUDnyEn6dCg0YcgIgBYIMAx7GGzIlqTTr5DfkagbCUVQQm/s960/Tourism%20Resilience%20Award%20recipients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_7diMm7qUOK_igus4xnY4VpJa0nlZ8zXOj56a-ZjsJQstnW4ipjbzjwEwgiKqySfkim81bAp9sYMv_hGP45RXNrP0wy_7MRBhFSAzzf7HGwaSDRpLQETXLo80I34bsF-ZeGknAtMUKImdxuUDnyEn6dCg0YcgIgBYIMAx7GGzIlqTTr5DfkagbCUVQQm/w640-h480/Tourism%20Resilience%20Award%20recipients.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recipients of the Tourism Resilience Award with Jamaica's Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett; Dr. Gervan Fearon, President of George Brown College; Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica; and Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Jamaica Tourist Board, Canada</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Five individuals and two organizations — Dr. Pamela Appelt, Howard L. Shearer, Dr. Mary Anne Chambers, Adaoma Patterson, Mary Bishop, Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation, and Air Canada Vacations — were presented with tourism resilience awards.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98ZnT9j1O5FLCJEcJufQwUEx_jsVIeyhrko3Ftp5tCAsbezOc79uTgaZblpO0zTSPpsc0WK2Ph5Esb7wIwwMb8pTNts3X_JK7cejvaaC0gS2dtlOZpXnx05XSfOFxcizU4OyVgcOSIfvtbZO3WaqHcTt280bzyHEMH29SfkN5alnJd82L8kO2ocmByPbQ/s4032/Sandra%20Whiting%20and%20Jean%20Augustine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98ZnT9j1O5FLCJEcJufQwUEx_jsVIeyhrko3Ftp5tCAsbezOc79uTgaZblpO0zTSPpsc0WK2Ph5Esb7wIwwMb8pTNts3X_JK7cejvaaC0gS2dtlOZpXnx05XSfOFxcizU4OyVgcOSIfvtbZO3WaqHcTt280bzyHEMH29SfkN5alnJd82L8kO2ocmByPbQ/w480-h640/Sandra%20Whiting%20and%20Jean%20Augustine.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sandra Whiting and Jean Augustine</td></tr></tbody></table></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqR0mxg65MziadEcYfrSP4NqZn0wGmVFnJbf1LP0JmQLZxMOzaW9PCKBElCI9kiTgkJxSptKqJkNo03T9xEGLEG-8pwuRYuvZ8HFOoTSuh1PtwViw1bBEs_Sdvxgr65Gm5CZbnZxVXc0cnSOYkKjg-kZrKrhC9kZgx-ZJ7HY1mq4xQD7jd-b9pq8kSQpdZ/s4032/Chris%20and%20Mary%20Anne%20Chambers%20and%20Alando%20Terrelonge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqR0mxg65MziadEcYfrSP4NqZn0wGmVFnJbf1LP0JmQLZxMOzaW9PCKBElCI9kiTgkJxSptKqJkNo03T9xEGLEG-8pwuRYuvZ8HFOoTSuh1PtwViw1bBEs_Sdvxgr65Gm5CZbnZxVXc0cnSOYkKjg-kZrKrhC9kZgx-ZJ7HY1mq4xQD7jd-b9pq8kSQpdZ/w480-h640/Chris%20and%20Mary%20Anne%20Chambers%20and%20Alando%20Terrelonge.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chris Chambers, Mary Anne Chambers and Alando Terrelonge, Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Jamaica</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Arlene Amitirigala, a writer, speaker and podcaster, was the emcee of the event which was hosted by Minister Bartlett.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 19.7pt; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyH1gz0q6PjQhUvuq8m1ki3KvxzPujvuUQZWqSyd6-t5EFgZ1xB6ln7yVh6GdCP2yfk7u-O7OBhGb8DhmuK_lam26Qw8ozBNXotnl7HAiw6rrTfnEThcBumwYCtr39pe5xaoPGPv741oRnTXjsY-AuNr4O23OdFl4PXaFjSQ_yzx1iZNM-apwO_LcA7GUR/s5887/Alando%20Terrelonge%20and%20Neil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3546" data-original-width="5887" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyH1gz0q6PjQhUvuq8m1ki3KvxzPujvuUQZWqSyd6-t5EFgZ1xB6ln7yVh6GdCP2yfk7u-O7OBhGb8DhmuK_lam26Qw8ozBNXotnl7HAiw6rrTfnEThcBumwYCtr39pe5xaoPGPv741oRnTXjsY-AuNr4O23OdFl4PXaFjSQ_yzx1iZNM-apwO_LcA7GUR/w640-h386/Alando%20Terrelonge%20and%20Neil.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Eddie Grant Left to right: Omar Smith, Neil Armstrong, Alando Terrelonge, Arlene Amitirigala, and Kurt Davis, Jamaica's new Consul-General at Toronto</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 19.7pt; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 19.7pt; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit, serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 19.7pt; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit, serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit, serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit, serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit, serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-84226605629714113882023-09-29T09:00:00.005-07:002023-09-29T09:00:43.296-07:00Minister Alando Terrelonge Bats for the Involvement of Youth in Diaspora Engagement<p> <span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">By Neil Armstrong</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhsIljm69Ek-xC0wolGCtCiGEtI2pbk8pIcrQaeSRIMP8nxWrizKl4vFKRPWgR2iySWXjEJPpJIe2KKcKX13OhDX2G51CIjcb8kSEGrzeRVypXG2BvSmOn5QkqdjGFdnQFzqwYTysyNfwK5ajPiZ5Rr8FoSRI-zbi7UrqGUcGEl6zE9mMybj9GxLN16YmG/s4032/Alando%20Terrelonge%20and%20Danae%20Peart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhsIljm69Ek-xC0wolGCtCiGEtI2pbk8pIcrQaeSRIMP8nxWrizKl4vFKRPWgR2iySWXjEJPpJIe2KKcKX13OhDX2G51CIjcb8kSEGrzeRVypXG2BvSmOn5QkqdjGFdnQFzqwYTysyNfwK5ajPiZ5Rr8FoSRI-zbi7UrqGUcGEl6zE9mMybj9GxLN16YmG/w480-h640/Alando%20Terrelonge%20and%20Danae%20Peart.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alando Terrelonge, Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, and minister with responsibility for diaspora affairs, with emcee, Danae Peart</td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Jamaica’s minister of state in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Alando Terrelonge, and chair of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council, believes youth, who he calls young kings and queens, can positively impact development once given the appropriate resources and opportunities. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">He was the keynote speaker at the Regional Jamaica Diaspora Conference (Canada) 2023 held at the Ebenezer Holiness Church of God in Toronto on September 23, with satellite venues in Montreal, Calgary and Vancouver where he expounded on the theme of the gathering — engagement, collaboration and action.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">“Sustainability of the diaspora movement and fostering affinity among the over 104,000 second-generation Jamaicans and over 42, 000 third-generation Jamaicans as well as fourth-generation Jamaicans here in Canada is therefore critically important as the demographics of the community continue to evolve,” said Terrelonge who was on his first official visit to Canada as minister of state with responsibility for diaspora affairs. He was introduced by Marsha Coore-Lobban, the new high commissioner of Jamaica to Canada.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">“If we fail to involve the youth of Canada of Jamaican descent then we will continue, and if we continue to lose more stalwarts, as they continue to grow older, then it means that we would have failed to continue their legacy.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">He underscored the importance of Jamaicans involving their children and grandchildren so that they can continue the legacy of their forefathers. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">The minister noted that they have recognized through the first term of the council some of the specific issues in which the youth cohort has demonstrated key interest and plan to participate.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">These include education, sports, technology, tourism, investment opportunities, innovation, and the creative arts. As a result, his ministry has deliberately engaged the ministries of tourism, culture, gender, entertainment and sport, and industry, investment and commerce to leverage their assets to anticipate the work by the Global Jamaica Diaspora Youth Council as mandated by the National Diaspora Policy. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">He said leveraging technology is a key enabler for diaspora engagement and as they continue that approach, they must recognize that technology is one way to get everyone’s involvement. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Minister Terrelonge said there is a digital registration portal being developed in partnership with the International Development Bank and is slated for public testing later this year.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">“We anticipate that the portal will be publicly launched at the upcoming tenth biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference scheduled for June in Jamaica, 2024. As one of the deliverables emerging from the Diaspora Policy, you’ll be pleased to note that this portal will provide tailored services, including outreach activities, social and economic engagement as well as streamlined data access and collection to Jamaicans in the diaspora in concert with Jamaican ministries, departments and agencies. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">The minister assured that the information will be confidentially held and stored in a safe environment. Speaking on the Jamaica Diaspora Engagement Model (JAMDEM), he said it is a bespoke investment portal developed in partnership with the International Organization for Migration. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">In extending the welcome, Dr. Sylvanus Thompson, chair of the Regional Jamaica Diaspora Planning Committee, said </span><span lang="EN-US" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">the Jamaican diaspora in Canada is “a living testament to the resilience, strength, and creativity of our people.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">“It is a community </span><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">of close to 250, 000 persons, </span><span lang="EN-US" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">that has flourished, adapting to new environments while holding steadfast to the vibrant traditions and rich cultural heritage of Jamaica. Our presence here is a living bridge between two nations, a bridge built on the pillars of unity, opportunity, and mutual respect.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span lang="EN-US" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Our cultural heritage is a beacon that guides us, no matter where we are in the world. This conference provides a platform to celebrate our traditions, share our stories, and foster cultural exchanges</span><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Thompson noted that the aim of the conference was to bring together individuals from the Jamaican diaspora across Canada to celebrate their shared heritage, promote cultural understanding, and explore opportunities for collaboration and growth. It sought to provide a platform for participants to engage in meaningful discussions</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> and collective actions about important issues impacting Jamaican Canadians</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">, share knowledge, and exchange ideas.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">“</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Th</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">is</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> event will emphasize the importance of unity, cultural diversity, and the power of connections in building a vibrant and prosperous diaspora community.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> Furthermore, b</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">y fostering connections among participants, the conference will aim to inspire collaboration, </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">and </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">encourage entrepreneurship</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">,” said Dr. Thompson. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC2cLrWwCjHx15AM1m69jIRUAn8bFHldZ_1idToQV9lgKw2sAU5rshWkZiiXyPwMkA1Pvn12HBIydBvQnG2ByfeeAfQ_VRyYVf58UXVkqnW4PGQmALN084IPViyl0V4cpofNd8xmApDSZ3JceIharmSOhVueazxVqeSRcmFMZgPlU-0XVopjRGZG2d0lUn/s4032/Ed%20Bartlett%20Orville%20Grey%20and%20Hugh%20Simmonds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC2cLrWwCjHx15AM1m69jIRUAn8bFHldZ_1idToQV9lgKw2sAU5rshWkZiiXyPwMkA1Pvn12HBIydBvQnG2ByfeeAfQ_VRyYVf58UXVkqnW4PGQmALN084IPViyl0V4cpofNd8xmApDSZ3JceIharmSOhVueazxVqeSRcmFMZgPlU-0XVopjRGZG2d0lUn/w480-h640/Ed%20Bartlett%20Orville%20Grey%20and%20Hugh%20Simmonds.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to right: Dr. Orville Grey, Dr. Hugh Simmonds and Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span lang="EN-US" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">The regional conference also featured a fireside chat with minister of tourism Edmund Bartlett, Dr. Orville Grey and moderator Dr. Hugh Simmonds about the future of tourism, sustainability and the challenge of climate change; the workshop on the impact of racism and discrimination on Jamaican Canadians panel included Kathy McDonald and Bishop Glenford Duffus moderated by Dave D’Oyen; the one on challenges and opportunities of healthcare in Jamaica featured Dr. Upton Allen, Dr. Hamlet Nation and Jennifer Dockery; the panelists for the crime and the justice system workshop were Peter Sloly and David Mitchell moderated by Capt. Kevin Junor; and the session on education and the diaspora’s role in preparing Jamaican students for the future included Luther Brown, Rhona Dunwell and moderator Kashane Denton; and moderator Adaoma Patterson led the closing plenary session examining “where do we go from here?”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Dr. Thompson noted that the issues discussed at the conference under the theme “engagement, collaboration and action” were identified through a community engagement survey in areas such as healthcare, crime and the justice system, education and the future of tourism. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">With respect to economic empowerment, he said those in attendance heard from Rezworth Burchenson, senior vice president and member of the executive leadership team of the VM Group, about investment opportunities in Jamaica and the presentation was repeated to Jamaicans in western Canada later that day. Lisa Rutty was the moderator.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemw3hHEADNeoANCi_7F5HPrGY6VWb4OxcM6uJOTbNgyglyBmRPwpI6RSC9fbOgOYPGcB85DgGyl3kINs2AuizLKlGVFtxb3oY9DX73F8UDp0wFkNviDVRwAJ3GzgKgbus1hNWuqB2JLDSGS78OaTIqjrP3gdX8jcaGtqvevRqSbluAl7cj6mSSYD4ozFb/s4032/Donnovan%20Simon%20Adaoma%20and%20Audrey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemw3hHEADNeoANCi_7F5HPrGY6VWb4OxcM6uJOTbNgyglyBmRPwpI6RSC9fbOgOYPGcB85DgGyl3kINs2AuizLKlGVFtxb3oY9DX73F8UDp0wFkNviDVRwAJ3GzgKgbus1hNWuqB2JLDSGS78OaTIqjrP3gdX8jcaGtqvevRqSbluAl7cj6mSSYD4ozFb/w480-h640/Donnovan%20Simon%20Adaoma%20and%20Audrey.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to right: Donnovan Simon, Audrey Campbell and Adaoma Patterson</td></tr></tbody></table></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zUefJO7kgqlhmbu_qCc3rYrWp1RknRfrm4-EIv79LIiNZHXO32S1nscVAAj4Emr2vN4IH1sZzx4qo6bnUE5cB8udCKrlcm0HEC75jfUVwWrOWG1eJoTydyNJhJuV-9WbhhiKbcgch9dNCTJbTpRoUNbkNYaII6oUBXMItpXcW1IpTF5nbfLXvBicxD_s/s4032/Adaoma%20and%20Danae%20at%20Diaspora%20Conference.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zUefJO7kgqlhmbu_qCc3rYrWp1RknRfrm4-EIv79LIiNZHXO32S1nscVAAj4Emr2vN4IH1sZzx4qo6bnUE5cB8udCKrlcm0HEC75jfUVwWrOWG1eJoTydyNJhJuV-9WbhhiKbcgch9dNCTJbTpRoUNbkNYaII6oUBXMItpXcW1IpTF5nbfLXvBicxD_s/w480-h640/Adaoma%20and%20Danae%20at%20Diaspora%20Conference.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adaoma Patterson and Danae Peart</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">The new consul-general at Toronto, Kurt Davis, sang the Jamaican anthem alongside consul Younna Bailey-Magalhaes while Mark Henry of Montreal sang the Canadian anthem virtually. The emcee for the opening ceremony was Danae Peart, Bishop Glenford Duffus, a member of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council, offered the prayer, and there was a dance performance by the Ebenezer Holiness Church Youth Group.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-16846091479442863802023-09-23T03:18:00.006-07:002023-09-25T18:49:37.210-07:00 Children’s Literature Author to be Presented with the 2023 My People Award at 2023 Black and Caribbean Book Affair<p>By Neil Armstrong</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMs9YkPhpjypw559eaWyotatR215bhc-zrzol_ysiwhry-KcN_Ys2f4ha1WKOlDMXgFbk-z3v3vU84oJupVEH47k57ywk6ZqUAfDrTXrs0h3Rokfl45pH74A3BlQAX3HO6k-yfWMbesrF4SLsfk5KKXb4wBnr6O1EDPlSk8-GKVfQ6tz7SGnLorWcL_NWr/s2496/Yolanda%20Marshall.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1664" data-original-width="2496" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMs9YkPhpjypw559eaWyotatR215bhc-zrzol_ysiwhry-KcN_Ys2f4ha1WKOlDMXgFbk-z3v3vU84oJupVEH47k57ywk6ZqUAfDrTXrs0h3Rokfl45pH74A3BlQAX3HO6k-yfWMbesrF4SLsfk5KKXb4wBnr6O1EDPlSk8-GKVfQ6tz7SGnLorWcL_NWr/w640-h426/Yolanda%20Marshall.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed Children's literature author Yolanda T. Marshall</td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #393939; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #393939; font-family: Cambria, serif;">Blackhurst Cultural Centre: The People’s Residence will present the 2023 My People Award to children’s literature author, Yolanda T. Marshall at the opening night of its three-day Black and Caribbean Book Affair on October 12.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #393939;">The My People Award is presented to an African, Black or Caribbean writer in Canada who is excelling at their craft and telling the stories of our heritage in their work.<span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"> Marshall</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"> </span></span><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">is an award-winning Guyanese-born Canadian author who writes diverse, inclusive and festive children’s literature. She ventured into the world of publishing in 2008 and is the author of 17 books. Marshall is currently agented and traditionally published; in 2019 she received a multi-book deal. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">“My son is my greatest inspiration,” says Marshall on her website.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Marshall’s books include:</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"> </span></span><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">A Piece of Black Cake for Santa, Miles Away In The Caribbean, Sweet Sorrel Stand, C is for Carnival, Hot Cross Buns</span></i></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"> </span></span><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">for Everyone</span></i></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"> </span></span><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">and one of CBC’s best Canadian picture books of 2020 and TD’s Top Recommended Reads for 2023 -</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"> </span></span><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">My Soca Birthday Party: with Jollof Rice and Steel Pans</span></i><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">She is also a columnist/editor for <i>Caribbean Camera</i> newspaper where her column “Lit Corner” promotes the books of other marginalized, Canadian authors. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">For the last few years in Canada, Marshall has read for over 25,000 students annually, </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">and was recently invited by a New York school board into their classrooms. </span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="wixui-rich-texttext"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">She appeared in numerous television interviews, magazine and news articles and is a recipient of the Caribbean </span></span><span lang="EN-GB">media Loop Awards: Author of the Year 2022, CBC’s 2020 Best Canadian Picture Book List, CIBWE Top 100 Black Women to Watch 2017, and one of Canada’s 100 Accomplished Black Women in 2022.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Marshall is a Membership Chair on the CANSCAIP Board (Canadian Society of Children’s Authors, Illustrators and Performers), a professional member of The Writer’s Union of Canada and a PAL member of the SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators). <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">From October 12 to 14, the annual Black and Caribbean Book Affair under the theme “</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">Books Open Our Worldview, Bans Limit It” and tagline<i> “</i>Affirming African presence and history, no erasure here — International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024)” will showcase the works of several authors, among them </span><span lang="EN-GB">GauZ’ (Armand Patrick Gbaka-Brédé) whose book, <i>Standing Heavy</i>, was shortlisted for the 2023 International Booker Prize.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">On October 12, 6:00-8:00pm, the Book Affair will open with reflections on the International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024 by Kemba Byam, Acting Manager, City of Toronto’s Confronting Anti-Black Racism Unit, the presentation of the My People Award, and a Conversation with GauZ’ about his book, <i>Standing Heavy</i>, now published in English by </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; color: #0f1111;">Biblioasis.</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; color: #0f1111; font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span><span lang="EN-GB">He will be interviewed by Ottawa-based translator and television and radio host, Sarah Onyango, on Zoom.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-GB">Standing Heavy</span></i><span lang="EN-GB"> is a funny, fast-paced, and poignant take on Franco-African history, as told through the eyes of three African security guards in Paris.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">On Friday, October 13, there will be two sessions dedicated to students and teachers. Community historian Kathy Grant will present the book, </span><i><span lang="EN-GB">We Remember the Black Battalion</span></i><b><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></b><span lang="EN-GB">by Serena Virk<b>.</b></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;"> </span><span lang="EN-GB">In the First World War, when so many brave young men enlisted to fight, there were many Black men who wanted to join, but many were denied. This resulted in the Black Battalion being created.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;"> </span><span lang="EN-GB">Illustrator Ken Daley will showcase virtually the world of illustration and books to these young people.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">In the evening, from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m., </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">Sheila White, author of </span><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">The Letters: Postmark Prejudice in Black and White</span></i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">will be in conversation with Itah Sadu, Managing Director of Blackhurst Cultural Centre</span><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">, </span></i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;">about her book which tells the story of her parents.</span><span lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><i><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></i></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Vivian Keeler is an intelligent, attractive and determined white woman from a traditional Nova Scotia family who risks it all by falling in love with a Black man. Billy White is a charismatic and gifted member of a prominent Black family; he’s the brother of celebrated classical singer Portia White and the son of a renowned Black minister who garnered fame as an officer during the First World War. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">The closing day on Saturday, October 14, is filled with activities starting at 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with a workshop titled “The World of Distribution – the Dos and Don’ts” for aspiring writers who want to know about the industry.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">From 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., mental health coach and philanthropist, Audley Coley, will talk with poet and educator Michelle Muir about the book, <i>Audley Enough: A Portrait of Triumph and Recovery in the Face of Mania and Depression,</i> written by Lesley Whyte Redford and Patricia Lavoie.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">To celebrate “Culture Days,” Yolanda Marshall and Suzette Vidale will host a<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">a story time and steel pan event incorporating reading and soca music for kids from 1:00-2:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Educator and children’s book author Nadia Hohn will present her book, <i>The Antiracist Kitchen: 21 Stories (and Recipes)</i>, </span><span lang="EN-GB">an anthology featuring stories and recipes from racialized authors about food, culture and resistance, from 2:30-3:15 p.m.The book is a celebration of food, family, activism and resistance in the face of racism. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Actor, singer, producer and writer Asha Bromfield will launch her book, </span><span lang="EN-GB"><i>Songs of Irie</i> from 3:30-4:30 p.m.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white;"> in a conversation with author Gayle Gonsalves. </span>Perfect for fans of <i>The Black Kids</i>, <i>Songs of Irie</i> is a sweeping coming-of-age novel about a budding romance struggling to survive amidst the Jamaican civil unrest of the 1970s.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwHNeH6aInQDwIOg3F7Q0QDNotmTTdbNuv3XBarWGMDVQzBNFZ-D0B7gFNHRTeL6DJKUw7rbLIhA9r1lhJ0GkwS__9TXqBmATE0LzvxXIOTVIWV6wtD5djPMhf6pUCld_tuGR6zEEUznYauSfhnx7yoZPkMCnmd2plBP-ffCKbdGGXq10Rz7RzXI1cgS_Z/s2000/Black%20and%20Caribbean%20Revised%20Flyer.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1414" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwHNeH6aInQDwIOg3F7Q0QDNotmTTdbNuv3XBarWGMDVQzBNFZ-D0B7gFNHRTeL6DJKUw7rbLIhA9r1lhJ0GkwS__9TXqBmATE0LzvxXIOTVIWV6wtD5djPMhf6pUCld_tuGR6zEEUznYauSfhnx7yoZPkMCnmd2plBP-ffCKbdGGXq10Rz7RzXI1cgS_Z/w452-h640/Black%20and%20Caribbean%20Revised%20Flyer.jpg" width="452" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;">The Book Affair closes with a community conversation about “Black Women, Oral History and Social Activism in Canada.” </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">Building on the works of Dr. Karen Flynn’s <i>Moving Beyond Borders </i>and Dr. <i> </i></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Funké Aladejebi’s <i>Schooling the System, </i>this session will explore the ways oral history projects can shift conversations in Canadian history and reveal the significance of Black women’s lived experience and ways of knowing. Both scholars will be interviewed by PhD candidate Catherine Grant-Wata<b>, </b>Department of History, University of Toronto.</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span><span style="color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">“As the keepers of memories, communities, and family histories, Black women lives and experiences respond to important silences, gaps, and omissions often missing, buried, or unrecorded in traditional archives and national histories. In this session, three Black women historians, at different stages in their careers, explore ways to collate, tell, and preserve the life stories of Black women in Canada. In conversation with community members, we will consider how oral histories challenge traditional historical narratives and why it is important for Black women to tell their histories on their own terms,” notes a synopsis of the event.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">All of the events take place at Blackhurst Cultural Centre – The People’s Residence at 777 Bathurst Street in Toronto, Canada. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">The 2023 Black and Caribbean Book Affair is supported by: </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: repeat white; color: #0f1111;">Biblioasis, </span>Yorkland Publishing, Orca Book Publishers, MacMillian Publishers, Toronto Arts Council and Caribbean Camera.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: center;"><br /></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-39273215400384925812023-09-14T03:58:00.000-07:002023-09-14T03:58:17.833-07:00Series of Videos Engages Black Community to Focus on Prostate Cancer<p> <span style="background-color: white; color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;">By Neil Armstrong</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ewiTb02rclI9YyKYcQ99xlVanK3bVy9B1YEBnFKMPSnh3hpzE-3_s4AeepFWTxl1-TvbCJZWxNE-_aZ0FCsjP4f2c4y6fpTG-Upwo8vl1JqaLja9nNkvMlZ5Dj853DA7gg4qpBH1OmuiBaENdvrO-lednvmejXdjrJ4hTKd06HJDVP2Qp5YXyoW8qnUU/s1124/Shemroy%20Parkinson.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1124" data-original-width="964" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ewiTb02rclI9YyKYcQ99xlVanK3bVy9B1YEBnFKMPSnh3hpzE-3_s4AeepFWTxl1-TvbCJZWxNE-_aZ0FCsjP4f2c4y6fpTG-Upwo8vl1JqaLja9nNkvMlZ5Dj853DA7gg4qpBH1OmuiBaENdvrO-lednvmejXdjrJ4hTKd06HJDVP2Qp5YXyoW8qnUU/w548-h640/Shemroy%20Parkinson.png" width="548" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Selina McCallum Actor Shemroy Parkinson in the 12-part series of educational videos promoting prostate cancer awareness by The Walnut Foundation and TAIBU Community Health Centre in September, Prostate Cancer Awareness Month</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #242424;">Veteran community leader and nonagenarian Roy Williams says to be alive is the best option when dealing with prostate cancer and so Black men should focus on their health and not be concerned about being stigmatized or the loss of their sexual prowess.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;">That’s an outlook that Winston Klass, 80, </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">a Director at The Walnut Foundation (TWF) and the Lead of its Prostate Cancer Support Group, shares as his cancer was discovered through a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE). “It saved my life because that is how my cancer was found,” he says emphatically.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">Both men are survivors of prostate cancer and advocate for Black men to screen early — as early as age 40 — and regularly through <span style="background: white;">Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) tests.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;">It has been 27 years since Williams, a 94-year-old retired professor at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) and the first president of the Jamaican Canadian Association, was told by his doctor that he had the disease. He chose the treatment of a radical prostatectomy. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;">In 1996, two years after he retired, he did an annual physical and his doctor suggested that he should do a PSA test. The result led to him doing another PSA test which showed a high Gleason score — a system used to grade prostate cancer cells — and so the doctor referred him to a surgeon in Newmarket, Ontario.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;">“It was diagnosed to be cancer and that word frightened me. I had never considered the whole issue of prostate, and then prostate cancer,” says Williams who was informed of the consequences of the surgery: incontinence and erectile dysfunction. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;">After surgery he was not as virile as he would have liked to be, but he is happy to be alive.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;">Williams is among several Black men in Ontario who are survivors of prostate cancer and whose lived experience complement the work of The Walnut Foundation that has collaborated with TAIBU Community Health Centre to showcase a series of videos during September, Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;">The 12-part series was created to </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">educate the community and to provide guidance and support to those living with prostate cancer. Each episode features a different concern: one has urologist Dr. Neil Fleshner of the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre answering the concerns of Andre Rose, a board member of TWF; another introduces 78-year-old Reuben Smith, a 16-year survivor of prostate cancer, and in another his daughter Simone Jennifer Smith talks about how the family was affected by the news. Filmmaker and digital creative Selina McCallum was masterful in her production of the videos which mainly show younger people on screen. As a men’s health interest and prostate support group working with the Black community in identifying the needs of Black men in the areas of health and related issues, The Walnut Foundation strives to make a difference in men’s health and wellness, and to provide a forum for discussion in a comfortable, safe and supportive environment.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In Canada, 1 out of 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their life, and 63 are diagnosed daily with 11 dying from it. Black men of West African or Caribbean ancestry have almost double the risk of developing prostate cancer compared to non-Black men and the mortality rate among Black men is higher than others. They have a 76% higher rate of prostate cancer and are two times more likely to die from it. Black men tend to discover their cancer in its later stages due to not getting an early screening. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Doctors recommend that Black men start screening from the age of 40. If prostate cancer is detected early the survival rate is nearly 100% at 5 years, 98% at 10 years, and 96% at 15 years. However, if it is detected late, the survival rate in 5 years drops from nearly 100% to only 30%.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">“Based on the various studies that have shown that Black men are disproportionately impacted by prostate cancer, given the fact that if caught early prostate cancer is treatable and curable and given the stigma, the relationship between the Black communities and systems in general and the health care system in particular, reaching out to the communities through various means of health information and promotion from a trusted community organization is very important. This is why TAIBU is honoured to support and partner with The Walnut Foundation in bringing these educational and awareness building resources,” says Liben Gebremikael, Executive Director of TAIBU Community Health Centre.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytpvI-EYK9ozafhGoigMXsKZXqlR5pHa_FePS-KOk5Gye9IE11M7cHMt8alDUgtzZlPJxvO9KjH85iPIAXG7lsf6RiO0ycYX31TTPXi0JHU3ViJHHIxQs_v-vr8yJnjwhMEsf_OYbdSYOZE4uN1kY3McbZToAA2WZlQPUQhtp2SspvMZ57zvT7M7zlOSO/s2056/Ravin2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1014" data-original-width="2056" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytpvI-EYK9ozafhGoigMXsKZXqlR5pHa_FePS-KOk5Gye9IE11M7cHMt8alDUgtzZlPJxvO9KjH85iPIAXG7lsf6RiO0ycYX31TTPXi0JHU3ViJHHIxQs_v-vr8yJnjwhMEsf_OYbdSYOZE4uN1kY3McbZToAA2WZlQPUQhtp2SspvMZ57zvT7M7zlOSO/w640-h316/Ravin2.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Selina McCallum Ravin is one of the actors in the educational videos rolling out this month to raise awareness about prostate cancer in the Black community.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;">Williams’s doctor always recommended a DRE, also known as a prostate exam, and a PSA test. “The sooner the diagnosis, the greater the probability of the best outcomes in terms of the range of options of treatment that are currently available. But the early diagnosis is the best start in terms of the care of one’s prostate.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #242424;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">When he was diagnosed, Williams relied on the support of his family noting that he was not aware of any support groups in Canada or Jamaica where he lived for some time after surgery. He believes support groups help Black men to overcome the stigma associated with the disease and build confidence in them that treatment is possible and there are survivors.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">Klass says the video series underscores the message that men should screen regularly for prostate cancer, and it is very likely that they will catch it early. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">“If you catch it early there is an almost 100% chance that you are going to die from something else. It’s a very simple message that underlines everything and it goes back to screen early and it’s a simple blood test,” says Klass who is also on the board of Prostate Cancer Support Toronto, and Prostate Cancer Foundation Canada. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">The Walnut Foundation intends to hammer home that message hoping that the simplicity of it will motivate Black men to act. Klass says the videos gives the organization the flexibility to play them to multiple audiences in different locations and on social media, and therefore they should be able to reach more members of the Black community.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">Like Williams, Klass was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1996, he was 53; within four years he became active in a support group and describes it as quite a revelation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">“I remember when I attended my first support group. I saw these guys that didn’t look like they had cancer, it was very encouraging for me. I got to know them, and I realized they were very strong people in the way they confronted their condition and the way they managed it.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">Klass says this was one of the best moves of his life and the men who participated in those support groups left feeling that the sessions helped them emotionally and in tangible ways, such as finding resources to make informed decisions about treatment options. The feedback from group members allows someone newly diagnosed with prostate cancer to know about the side effects as well, but ultimately it is a personal decision.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">“The problem with this though is that a lot of guys, especially Black men, are not aware of the existence of support groups for prostate cancer and they suffer in silence. The problem here is that prostate cancer affects an organ that is associated with sexuality and because of this there are a lot of myths around how you get prostate cancer.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">He says the <span style="background: white;">average Black man who is diagnosed with prostate cancer tends to withdraw socially, particularly from women, because their sexuality has to do with performance.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">“If we can get Black men to go out there and screen regularly then we’re there, in terms of our goal, because most of them, if they were to get prostate cancer, they would catch it early. That increases the options, and the chances that the treatment will not be intrusive and with side effects, or anything like that,” says Klass about debunking the myths and letting men know that they can be treated and recover their sexuality.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="xxmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="xxcontentpasted0"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">On the matter of addressing the stigma, Gebremikael says </span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">stigma exists because of a variety of reasons. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="xxmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="xxmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“One reason is due to the mistrust of Black communities with systems in general and healthcare institutions in particular due to generational and historical events that have caused this in the first place. This area is not an easy fix. It also takes time for institutions to take responsibility in redressing the mistrust.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="xxmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">The executive director notes that addressing stigma in the community requires continuous engagement and awareness with information from a trusted source. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB">“We have seen the success of such community-based community engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Black Scientist Task Force on Vaccine Equity has played a pivotal role in increasing uptake of COVID-19 vaccine among the Black population through the sharing of accurate and trusted information and education on the virus and the development of the vaccine, hosting community town halls and forums encouraging discussion and addressing concerns from the community.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">Klass added that if a man has prostate cancer there is a likelihood of a genetic connection and a family history of it increases the chances of their younger male relatives getting cancer. There are prevention routines such as diets and exercises that can delay or prevent it.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">He underscored that a blood test does not confirm that one has prostate cancer but only suggests the possibility of it; confirmation only happens with a biopsy. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">The Walnut Foundation remains focused on prostate cancer but has realized that it is not enough; as a result, it is expanding its vision to include men’s health in general and to enlist the support of younger men.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;">“One of the reasons for this is that prostate cancer is associated with older men and therefore an organization that focuses on prostate cancer can be perceived as older guys getting together. We must break this mould and start to make us more acceptable to the younger guys,” says Klass noting that their strategy includes mental health which is important to the targeted group.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="xxmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span class="xxcontentpasted0"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;">To measure the effectiveness of the videos, Gebremikael says </span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">there will be monitoring metrics such as number of views of the videos and TAIBU will work with The Walnut Foundation to implement ways of eliciting feedback from the community through feedback surveys. “The aim is also to use these videos as community engagement tools as part of health promotion programs and events. These will be important spaces to engage with community members and seek the impact of the videos on their and/or family members' awareness, attitudes, behaviour and access to preventative services.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="xxmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="xxmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">To view the educational videos created by filmmaker Selina McCallum, here is the link: </span></b><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: white; color: #242424; font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"> </span></span><a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fthewalnutfoundation.com%2Fwatch-our-videos%2F&data=05%7C01%7C%7Cd72385d5897a4397194408dbabc8080d%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C638292647833676903%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2FTb8D6aptBcuhSeb%2B%2B51caz0IuTCtTx4LDj2FPGhnss%3D&reserved=0" style="color: purple;" target="_blank" title="Protected by Outlook: https://thewalnutfoundation.com/watch-our-videos/. Click or tap to follow the link."><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; padding: 0cm;">https://thewalnutfoundation.com/watch-our-videos/</span></a><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="xxmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; padding: 0cm;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwZdEsG5DwUMQyl103Gm4WtUqTPHZr5CVfy-Ot4c1fvinf1A-UN94AMb4TGigAO6xBrbVeHzPmINxEhXjn-rDvla4WFiaKdyLpBtRxwVL4E0mSw-JzFlz4L78mw5mmhjn-CnXpbgnWeuuxwjpK7_8x8ROh0zdmUTyK2ox7l9ID6E2mX1KTlAReeYsv52gs/s1650/TWF%20Sept%202023%20Events.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1650" data-original-width="1275" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwZdEsG5DwUMQyl103Gm4WtUqTPHZr5CVfy-Ot4c1fvinf1A-UN94AMb4TGigAO6xBrbVeHzPmINxEhXjn-rDvla4WFiaKdyLpBtRxwVL4E0mSw-JzFlz4L78mw5mmhjn-CnXpbgnWeuuxwjpK7_8x8ROh0zdmUTyK2ox7l9ID6E2mX1KTlAReeYsv52gs/w494-h640/TWF%20Sept%202023%20Events.png" width="494" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8935480176289652558.post-63382524143457568582023-09-13T14:41:00.000-07:002023-09-13T14:41:02.574-07:00Play Featuring Anansi and Ginnal Kicks Off Buddies in Bad Times Theatre’s 45th Season<p> <b style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">By Neil Armstrong</span></b></p><p><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsZj8tVXGbutdvwxW5jm95fhjnLukfYcMHpnXuUGTaa9hr6YyrS01WvPHYGZKDhZkRw-OOcDnvRZv-cv7C4gzlHKsdjQy7M5-Vt-INChPlWjDeXbMJaNNtMqBWXfdf4IopwlKYjf0W550jznaG6s0MyC8hhO2Cv97dFpmRsmvwyK80LIyLPmk4_LaEc2Hz/s2602/danieljelaniellis-DianaLuongjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2513" data-original-width="2602" height="618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsZj8tVXGbutdvwxW5jm95fhjnLukfYcMHpnXuUGTaa9hr6YyrS01WvPHYGZKDhZkRw-OOcDnvRZv-cv7C4gzlHKsdjQy7M5-Vt-INChPlWjDeXbMJaNNtMqBWXfdf4IopwlKYjf0W550jznaG6s0MyC8hhO2Cv97dFpmRsmvwyK80LIyLPmk4_LaEc2Hz/w640-h618/danieljelaniellis-DianaLuongjpg.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Diana Luong Theatre artist daniel jelani ellis's play <i>speaking of sneaking </i>will be featured at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre in Toronto</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"><br /><br /></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Theatre artist daniel jelani ellis is promising more dancehall and much more leaning into the world of the mythical folk hero Anansi in <i>speaking of </i>sneaking, a groundwork redux and Buddies in Bad Times Theatre production in association with Obsidian Theatre, when the 45<sup>th</sup> anniversary season of Buddies opens later this month.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Directed by fellow Jamaican Canadian artist, activist and academic<b> </b>d’bi.young anitafrika, ellis — who appeared as “Boy” in DM St. Bernard’s <i>The First Stone</i> in Buddies’ 2022-23 season — brings an exhilarating theatrical experience to the Buddies stage: a compelling tale of self-discovery and the pursuit of belonging. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Both are collaborating on another project at the Theatre Centre where he is in residency, and she is the director and dramaturge of the piece. When the opportunity arose to present <i>speaking of sneaking </i>sooner at this Buddies, they seized it.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Drawing from his Jamaican roots and lived experiences as a Black queer man navigating “Foreign” (Canada), ellis delivers a multidisciplinary performance that combines dance, poetry, and pantomime to create a transformative journey like no other. He plays ten different characters who appear on stage, “some of them speak, some of them are just there, and it begins with Anansi, we’re entering into Anansi’s web.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">“It was in the artistic space of Buddies’ Emerging Creators Unit that <i>speaking of sneaking</i> was first tenderly brooded over for months,” says the creator and performer. “With that infant iteration, I was exploring my newly-forming identity as a Canadian — a Black queer Jamaican young man brand-new to Toronto — reconciling new freedoms and transgressions. It is a surreal experience to return to this piece over 10 years later in the very space where those first ideas were incubated.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Originating in Buddies’ Emerging Creators Unit (2012) and further developed in Why Not Theatre's RISER project (2018), <i>speaking of sneaking</i> has garnered five Dora award nominations, including for outstanding production and outstanding new play. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Eleven years ago, working with theatre director and educator Evalyn Parry, ellis in the 25-minute piece was exploring the issue of code switching not only showing up in language but in the body. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">“I was answering that question, like what is the voice of an uprooted Black queer body. And then at RISER it was expanded working with d’bi and it was from Ginnal’s perspective. In terms of this iteration, another way it has changed and continue to evolve is that we (the audience) will be entering into Anansi’s world. This is from Anansi’s perspective; we’re in the realm of the deities, Anansi is the deity of storytelling in this piece,” says ellis, noting that this version of <i>speaking of sneaking </i>is weaving of a story from Anansi the god.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">When the work was presented at the Theatre Centre, ellis worked with his brother Jesse, a talented musician, who was the sound designer, and in terms of the movement Brian Solomon brought a contemporary dance interpretation of the dancehall.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">“But for this iteration we’re really leaning into the dancehall so we’re working with a sound designer Stephon Smith and choreographer Jaz “Fairy J” Simone who both independent of the piece have a relationship with dancehall, with Jamaica, with Caribbean through diaspora culture so they are showing up with their own —obviously realizing d’bi’s vision — but then also offering their own interpretation, their own inspirations based on their relationships with dancehall so the dancehall just really exploded for this iteration.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Ellis says at Buddies they have greater resources and the luxury of more time than the RISER project allowed and so they are taking full advantage of that, and it is on a grander scale. </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz_4eD_2449Ij5lOz3jzexX306xMis1SQshfbCxFLN_wJuXoTepQivfXdbTHhy67-dbwGgJDoRktH4qm6chlJbxgIcGf24F4n7EIYF8DjFIA5ZZnOBk8hwpHFBTa_-_QfoKbyE-uX_mUhVGopo6zdTsRz8w_-z9KtvOePN46d-7VRUoKnkHzCy2kFGCL-I/s4032/danieljelaniellis%20rehearsing.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz_4eD_2449Ij5lOz3jzexX306xMis1SQshfbCxFLN_wJuXoTepQivfXdbTHhy67-dbwGgJDoRktH4qm6chlJbxgIcGf24F4n7EIYF8DjFIA5ZZnOBk8hwpHFBTa_-_QfoKbyE-uX_mUhVGopo6zdTsRz8w_-z9KtvOePN46d-7VRUoKnkHzCy2kFGCL-I/w480-h640/danieljelaniellis%20rehearsing.heic" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo contributed daniel jelani ellis in rehearsal for <i>speaking of sneaking</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424;"><br /></span><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">speaking of sneaking </span></i><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">follows the story of Ginnal, who yearns to send a barrel back to his family in Jamaica from his bachelor apartment in Toronto. The play artfully collapses past and present, as Ginnal reminisces about his youth in Yard and his path to Foreign. Guided by the playful and ancient spider Anansi, Ginnal navigates the complexities of Black queer masculinity and wrestles with the fraught potential of leaving one home to find another.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Ellis says he grew up with Anansi as a figure of storytelling and a revered folkloric spirit and so it felt very natural to be drawing from that culture to incorporate Anansi in the work. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Following the structure of Anansi stories, he believes that ginnals came to be because of Anansi and so he decided to include the figure. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">“I wanted to defend ginnals; we understand ginnals as crooked, shady, and trying to benefit themselves. I wanted to offer a perspective that maybe ginnals are doing what they need to do to get through. If we consider that mainstream society or the hegemonic structures serve a very specific kind of person, to be able to navigate these structures with your humanity you have to be flexible, you have to be a bit of a ginnal so that’s how the ginnal and Anansi archetypes came to be.”<br /><br />Under the expert direction of d'bi.young anitafrika<i>, </i> whose Anitafrika method helped to develop the piece since its inception, <i>speaking of sneaking </i>returns to Buddies for its mainstage debut. Set and costume is by Rachel Forbes and lighting by Andre Du Toit.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Ellis says working with d’bi.young has been surreal and they share so much in common.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; padding: 0cm;">“It’s a dream come true. We’ll have moments in the day where we will look at each other and giggle when we reflect on how our lives have intersected. We went to the same high school in Jamaica, not at the same time; my dad taught her theatre when she was a youth; my dad and her mom were in the Jamaica School of Drama at the same time. When I moved here, about six months after that I saw her on stage in “Da Kink in My Hair,” that original production at the Princess of Wales Theatre. And I was like woe, theatre is still a possibility here so I have long been looking toward her as model of what is possible, of what I would like to do with my life.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;">The play opens on</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="border: 1pt windowtext; color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; padding: 0cm;"> September 21, with previews on September 19 and 20; it closes on October 1.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></b></p><p style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #242424; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; margin: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></p>anglescoveredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710090698086199770noreply@blogger.com0