NEWS RELEASE
INCLUSIVE ORILLIA
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On Monday, Feb. 3 dozens of local residents and local dignitaries braved the cold and snow to attend the raising of the Pan-African flag.
The raising of this flag is a first for Orillia and, as those who spoke at the event noted, it’s important for everyone to know about and understand the contributions the Black community has made, and continues to make in our community.
“This moment is not just symbolic — it is a powerful declaration of unity, resilience, and progress. It is a testament to the rich history, culture, and contributions of Black Canadians and the African diaspora," said Alasoba Kelsy-Braide, the primary organizer of the event and the Orillia and Area Black Community Association, and a member of the board of directors of the volunteer-led non-profit organization, Inclusive Orillia.
"It is a statement that says, 'We are here. We have always been here. And our voices, our stories, and our impact matter.' The Pan-African flag, with its bold colours of red, black, and green, tells a story of struggle, identity, and hope. We are so proud to see it fly high in Orillia,”
Ms. Kelsy-Braid continued, “As we raise this flag today, we acknowledge the sacrifices of those who came before us and reaffirm our commitment to those who will come after us. We are part of a legacy of warriors, scholars, artists, activists, and visionaries whose contributions have shaped this country.”
The Orillia and Area Black Community Association is grateful to all neighbours and friends who came out to celebrate the raising of the Pan-African flag, for the support of Orillia’s mayor, Don McIsaac, councillors and staff for encouraging the raising of this flag in downtown Orillia, and to our MPP and Minister of Education, Jill Dunlop and our MP Adam Chambers for attending and aiding in the celebration.
Although there are very few records remaining of Black history that pre-date the 1830s, The Simcoe County archives has a wealth of information from 1840 forward including family, land and school records, and the history of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Oro, a designated historical site, built between 1846-1849. Visit www.simcoe.ca and search Black History.
More information about the local Black community is available at www.orilliablackcommunity.ca.
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