Media Release
The City of Hamilton Celebrates Black History Month with “We Are Hamilton – Black History Remembered” Campaign
HAMILTON, ON – Each year, Black History Month offers an opportunity to recognize and acknowledge the significant contributions of so many from the Black Community and to recognize Black history as our history.
Leaders and community members from local, Black-led organizations and the City of Hamilton came together to present a program that honours the historical legacy and achievements of 16 Black Hamiltonians:
- Julia Berry
- Ray Johnson
- Sophia Burthen Pooley
- Norman “Pinky” Lewis
- Denise Brooks
- Wilma Morrison
- Reverend Robert Foster
- Neville Nunes
- Vince Hall
- Fleurette Osborne
- John Christie Holland
- Eleanor Rodney
- Anita Isaac
- Cynthia Taylor
- Dr. Ethilda “Tilly” Johnson
- Jack “Jackie” Washington
Each of their histories is remarkable, and many Hamiltonians are lucky to have known or crossed paths with several of these trailblazers.
Their respective images and biographies are being profiled on street banners along James Street and displayed in several City facilities, including Recreation Centres, Hamilton Public Library branches and Municipal Service Centres. Twelve HSR buses are also wrapped in “We Are Hamilton – Black History Remembered” imagery and will be in operation city-wide for 16 weeks.
“From education to justice, healthcare to housing and the homelessness crisis, Black Hamiltonians have continued to lead the way in the struggle for justice, equity, and change. I encourage everyone to learn more about the historical contributions and achievements of these outstanding Black Hamiltonians who have helped to shape our city, our communities, and our country.”
Mayor Andrea Horwath
The City of Hamilton is thankful to work with the following key, Black-led organizations to support the lineup of events and happenings scheduled across the city.
- The Afro-Canadian Caribbean Association
- The Ghana Association of Hamilton
- The Haitian Association of Hamilton
- The Hamilton Anti-Racism Resource Centre
- The Hamilton Black History Council
- The Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion
- The Nigerian Canadian Association of Hamilton and District
- And the Refuge Hamilton Centre for Newcomer Health.
For more information about this campaign, including the featured profiles, events, and festivities planned for Black History Month, please visit www.hamilton.ca/BlackHistory.
Members of the public are encouraged to share and tag their Hamilton Black history experiences and activities with #hamiltonbhm2023 and #hbhremembered on social media.
Tags
City & Council
Mayor's Office
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