What a powerful experience for our S.L.Y.C. youth to participate in Brampton’s Emancipation Day Flag Raising at Ken Whillans Square alongside so many other powerful community
For our youth, this was so much more than attending an event. It was an opportunity to see, hear, feel, and celebrate their history and heritage surrounded by community leaders, artists, performers, families, and other young people.
Watching the Emancipation flag rise was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices, resilience, strength, and determination of the generations who came before us. Seeing our youth experience that moment and take pride in their heritage is exactly why opportunities for cultural education and representation are so important.
The performances throughout the morning were incredibly moving. From the beautiful voices of the youth choirs to the music, dancing, inspiring speakers, and powerful contributions from young people themselves, the celebration brought our history to life in a way that our youth could experience and connect with.
We want young people to know that Black history is their history — and Black history is Canadian history. We want them to understand where they come from, celebrate the achievements of those who paved the way, and recognize the incredible possibilities that exist for their own futures.
We were extremely proud to see our S.L.Y.C. youth take part in such a meaningful community experience and leave feeling inspired, represented, connected, and proud of their heritage.
Thank you to everyone who made this experience possible and welcomed our youth into such an important celebration.
At Shining L.I.G.H.T.E Youth Charity, this is what generational empowerment looks like: learning from our past, strengthening who we are today, and empowering our youth to become the leaders of tomorrow.