The Town of Newmarket is proud to once again partner with the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) to present events and activities that honour Black History Month this February.
This year’s theme: “I and I, I Wanna Rule My Destiny”, calls on the community to reflect on the power of self-determination and resistance within the Black community. This theme goes beyond celebrating individual triumphs, it emphasizes the collective strength and actions of the Black community, how their destinies are interconnected and how collectively they can push boundaries and break barriers to shape a better and promising future.
“This Black History Month, we will recognize and honour those who have charted their own paths, those who, in the face of immense challenges, chose to rule their destinies while contributing to the collective progress of Africans everywhere, “says Jerisha Hall-Grant, Founder, Chairperson, Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association. “This year’s thoughtfully curated events address the ongoing challenges faced by Black Communities, celebrate our success, provide all Black Canadians a voice to write their own stories and uplift and inspire generations to create a more inclusive society. When we collectively honour the achievements and experiences of Black Canadians and celebrate those who refuse to be defined by limitations, together we can break down barriers and create a future that embodies the promise of Black liberation and hope.”
“Black History Matters. It is important that we continue to honour Black Canadian stories as they are an important part of Canada and Newmarket’s history and future,” says Mayor John Taylor. “We all have a duty to learn and understand Black History, honour the achievements of Black people, and celebrate their strength while facing adversity. This year's theme is a testament to the importance of amplifying Black voices, hearing their stories and experiences, and celebrating their triumphs. I want to thank NACCA for their continued partnership and leadership in breaking down barriers and helping to shape a promising future for the Black community.”
Newmarket’s lineup of free events for Black History Month presented by Magna includes:
Black History Month Reception & Celebration – Saturday, February 1 from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Old Town Hall (460 Botsford Street) – Reception program begins at 11:30 a.m.
Join us as we kick off Black History Month with the annual reception featuring a panel of distinguished experts. Experience live performances and the unveiling of our gallery exhibition highlighting this year’s theme “I and I, I Wanna Rule My Destiny”. Browse the popular Ujamaa Marketplace to meet and support local Black-owned businesses offering unique cultural products and services. Registration is not required but encouraged. Learn more.
Pan-African Flag Raising Ceremony – Monday, February 3 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Municipal Offices (395 Mulock Drive) The Pan-African Flag will be raised at the Municipal Offices to commemorate Black History Month. This ceremony celebrates the rich heritage, culture and invaluable contributions of people of African descent to our community. Registration is not required but encouraged. Learn more.
Black History Month Art Exhibit – February 1 to 28 at Old Town Hall (460 Botsford Street) and Elman W. Campbell Museum (134 Main Street South)
Stop by Old Town Hall and/or the Elman W. Campbell Museum for an inspiring gallery exhibition celebrating Black History Month 2025. Through powerful visuals, artifacts and storytelling, you will explore the journeys of trailblazers who ruled their destinies and broke barriers in politics, science, arts and education. This exhibition invites you to reflect on the interconnectedness of individual triumphs and collective progress, honouring the legacy of those who shaped history and continue to uplift the community today.
Evening Falls Illumination – Tuesday, February 11 (dusk) at Riverwalk Commons (200 Doug Duncan Drive)
Newmarket’s Fred A. Lundy Bridge will be lit yellow and green in honour of Black History Month and to celebrate African heritage and the beauty and diversity of our communities.
“Regulating My Energy to Rule My Destiny” - Energy Hygiene Workshop – February 19 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Newmarket Public Library (438 Park Avenue)
Participate in this empowering workshop and learn how to harness powerful techniques like Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) to cleanse and protect your energy field, reprogram your subconscious mind, and enhance overall wellness.
Through interactive exercises and demonstrations, you’ll discover how to shift your energy, release limiting beliefs, and foster emotional resilience. This workshop will help you cultivate a mindset aligned with your true desires, empowering you to rule your destiny with clarity, confidence, and balance. Registration is required.
Paint and Sip – Sunday, February 23 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Newmarket Public Library (438 Park Avenue)
Unleash your creativity in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. This interactive art session, accompanied by refreshments, allows participants to explore their artistic talents while reflecting on themes of self-determination and community. A professional artist will guide the session, ensuring both beginners and experienced painters can enjoy creating something meaningful. Registration is required.
Community Vision Board Experience – Envision Your Future: A Vision for Growth and Community – February 1 to 28 at the Newmarket Public Library (438 Park Avenue) and the Community Gallery at Old Town Hall (460 Botsford Street)
Envision your dreams and a better future during this month-long vision board exercise to honour Black History Month. This hands-on activity invites you to connect with your purpose, draw strength from our shared heritage and build a vision that reflects personal growth, collective strength and cultural legacy. Whether you are setting goals for health, career, creativity or social impact, this experience will inspire you to see beyond the present and contribute to the legacy of generations to come.
Newmarket is deeply committed to building a strong, healthy and equitable community. In 2023, the Town of Newmarket established an action plan to dismantle anti-Black racism and remove barriers Black individuals face in Newmarket. Read more at heynewmarket.ca/dabr
About NACCA
Since 2018, the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) which is a Registered Charitable organization, has provided strong leadership for the diverse Black community in Newmarket and surrounding areas. As a group of like-minded individuals, NACCA is committed to the collective work of engaging the African Canadian communities and its allies through program delivery, education, and partnerships, to cultivate an empowered and united Black community in Newmarket. The association operates with a vision to serve as a community hub that will support and strengthen the present and future outcomes of the Black community, especially Black youth. To advance generational skills-building, knowledge exchange, empowerment, and expression. To ignite change through allyship, and cross-cultural learning. Learn more at naccacommunity.ca
