On Thursday February 21, the Malton community was alive with festivities in celebration for Black History Month. Malton Neighbourhood Services (MNS) hosted a very successful Black History Month event at the Malton Community Centre. This memorable evening was organized in collaboration with Malton Moms, the Malton Black Development Association and The City of Mississauga-Malton Community Centre. Hundreds of clients, staff and community members gathered to enjoy a night of entertainment that included singing, dancing, a fashion show, and prize giveaways. This year’s Black History Month is significant historically as it recognizes the 400-year anniversary since the arrival of enslaved Africans to the English colonies.
The keynote speaker, Nene Kwasi Kefele, former Director of Health Equity at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and instructor at the University of Toronto and York University delivered a remarkable keynote address that highlighted the accomplishments of people of African descent. His address tied into the Black History Month’s theme, “Black Migrations: Linking our Roots” where cultural practices, traditions and foods that originated in Africa are continued in Canada and the Caribbean.
The event also included presentations on African culture and history: A powerful performance from spoken word artist Alyestal Hamilton; drumming and dancing by students from Dunrankin Public School; a presentation by the MNS Caribbean Seniors and children were treated to storytelling by members of Malton Moms. A display of African fashions was also prominent throughout the evening by those in the audience and during the fashion showing showcasing clothing by Beni Boo Styles. The event ended with prize giveaways and dinner reflecting African and Caribbean delicacies.
We will like to thank our performers, vendors, sponsors, participants and volunteers for making this event a great success. Special thank you to Malton Moms, Malton Black Development Association, The City of Mississauga- Malton Community Centre, Beni Boo Styles, Fun with Fruits – Willie Pierre, the MNS Caribbean Seniors Group and Sheldon Douglas Real Estate Agent.
Next year we look forward to continuing the momentum and bringing you a vibrant and engaging event to highlight Black History Month.