Cobourg, ON (February 9, 2024) – The Town of Cobourg would like to welcome the community to participate in upcoming community events in honour of Black History Month.

The Town of Cobourg proudly acknowledges the profound cultural heritage and significant contributions of Black individuals to our local community, our nation, and the global landscape. As February unfolds, the Town joins the nationwide celebration of Black History Month, offering a unique opportunity for residents to reflect on the history, accomplishments, and resilience of Black Canadians. 

This year's theme for Black History Month is "Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build." The Town encourages all residents to actively participate in events and activities that celebrate and honor the achievements, contributions, and history of Black Canadians through self-reflection and engagement in community events and offerings. 

The Town of Cobourg Legislative Services Division is proud to present a series of events coordinated by the Town’s Equity Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator. These events highlight achievements of black Canadians, provide opportunities for learning and understanding through cultural education as well as tools to develop cultural programming to help all residents find community.

Black History Month Installation 
When: All month long, starting February 6 
Where: Victoria Hall Lobby – East Showcase 
Featuring art from Robert Small’s Black History Month Collections.

Community Conversations: Building In and Up (Professional Development)
When: February 28, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. 
Where: Virtual – Cobourg.ca/BHM2024  
This professional development opportunity focuses on creating a safe space for Community Engagement Coordinators, Event Managers, Program Coordinators and similar professionals to learn how to engage racialized communities and increase representation within the community. Participants will gain insight from individuals with lived experiences who have created their own spaces to feel represented, emphasizing the importance of not having to leave the community to find community. 

Artist Spotlight: My Beautiful Curly Hair 
When: February 17 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. (Drop-in)
Where: Art Gallery of Northumberland 

Book reading by author Arya Holder and daughter Kiana. This family event will foster open dialogue about different cultural attributes while celebrating creative expression of black culture with the mantra "All hair is good!”

Williams Academy Student Stories 
The Town of Cobourg has partnered with students from William’s Academy who will be sharing stories about adjusting to life in Cobourg. Stories will be shared on the Town of Cobourg social media channels and the Town’s Equity Diversity and Inclusion page of Cobourg.ca

In a resounding commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse community, the Town of Cobourg emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the ongoing need for racial equality and justice. The Town stands united against discrimination and prejudice in all forms, implementing policies and community initiatives to ensure a community that values and respects the perspectives and experiences of all residents. 

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