For Immediate Release

February 1st, 2015

Black History Month Statement by Mayor Crombie

“On behalf of the City of Mississauga and Members of Council, I would like to recognize Black History Month taking place in Mississauga and in communities across Canada, throughout the month of February.

“Black History Month is an opportunity for all people to pay tribute to the important, enriching and lasting contributions African-Canadians have made as entrepreneurs; public servants; spiritual leaders; artists; and athletes; among so many other professions.

“Black History Month is also an opportunity to remember and reflect on the persecution generations of African-Canadians experienced. During the 19th Century many came to Upper Canada as fugitive slaves and free men and women, in search of new, safe and better lives.

“I want to recognize the ongoing work Heritage Mississauga undertakes to capture stories, images, and artifacts dating back to early Black history in Ontario and specifically historic Mississauga and Peel County.

“A thoughtful and deeper understanding of centuries of Black history, will better allow all people to appreciate how fortunate we are to call Mississauga home – a city that celebrates and embraces the diversity of its people.”

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