Get Up! Stand Up!: Newmarket raises Pan-African flag for Black History Month

'Time to lean in to bold leadership and allyship is now': Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association chair

Yorkregion.com
Feb. 4, 2022
Lisa Queen

A raising of the Pan-African flag was held at the Peace Park flagpole on Cane Parkway Feb. 1 to kick off Black History Month.

“Black history is Canadian history so we want to engage all communities to partake in both the storytelling and shift that needs to happen. It is our collective work and responsibility, Ujima, to participate in the unravelling of disparities and understand our relationship to them,” Jerisha Grant-Hall, chair of the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA), said.

“There is space for everyone to stand up for equity. On behalf of our executive team, members, volunteers and stakeholders, I want to assert that the time to lean in to bold leadership and allyship is now.”

NACCA is once again partnering with the town to bring a series of Black History Month events and activities to the community.

Inspired by Bob Marley’s famous song “Get Up, Stand Up,” this year’s theme Get Up! Stand Up! There is Power in Unity, focuses on the need for bold leadership and strong allyship, recognizing the importance of both in creating meaningful and lasting change.

The group has also collaborated with the Newmarket Public Library, East Gwillimbury Public Library and the East Gwillimbury's Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee to deliver activities that “speak to the need for ongoing learning and action to make our communities more equitable and inclusive,” NACCA said in a statement.

Newmarket Mayor John Taylor said the town and community extend a “heartfelt thank you” to Grant-Hall, NACCA members and the Black community for countless hours they have committed over the past few years leading a journey of growth and discovery.

“As we reflect on so many injustices that have happened, not just in the recent past, but over our entire history, we strongly recognize that Black History Month is an opportunity to take action,” he said.

“It is the time for us to come together as a community to continue to learn and grow and to stand with the Black community in unity, celebration, recognition, support and hope for a future where every single member of our community and our country feels equally valued and appreciated.”

For more information, visit www.naccacommunity.ca