By Ewa Chwojko-Srawley
The theme of the fourth annual Pan-African Flag Festival held on August 1 at the Civic Centre was Pan-African Pulse.
Kendra Shae-Marie Mullings, who started the festival in 2021, explained this year’s theme, which is connected to the previous themes of ‘Ubuntu’ and ‘Believe.’
Mullings said, “Ubuntu focuses on our need for each other as a community. It means that Black experiences matter here in Georgina.”
She added, “We must listen to each other, and believe each other. We gather here to speak, share facts, listen, and grow, practicing ubuntu and believing in experiences.
“As Black people, we are part of the heartbeat of Georgina, and no beat is stronger than the Pan-African Pulse. I urge everyone to tune in to the undercurrent of harmony and excellence that Black people bring to every aspect of life in Georgina.”
Mayor Margaret Quirk emphasized that it was a day to celebrate, but also to reflect. She said, “We do flag raising, not only to acknowledge Emancipation Day, but also to have discussions which sometimes can be uncomfortable. Little of Black history is taught in schools, so it is something that we need to understand more. Having this type of event gives us the opportunity to listen to the stories of our residents, to learn and to understand better.”
Carolyn Butterworth, York Region District School Board Trustee, agrees that education has a fundamental role in combating racism. She says, “Learning about Black history in schools is a powerful way to raise understanding, challenge stereotypes, and dismantle prejudice.”
Abbie Jama, who moved to Georgina 3 years ago, has attended the Pan-African Flag raising every year. “Understating history is crucial,” she says. “We must confront the past to make real progress. A festival like this is an opportunity to get to know each other. Together, we can create a world where everyone is truly free.”
In York Region, Georgina was the first to celebrate Emancipation Day, which commemorates the Slavery Abolition Act which came into effect in 1834. Canada’s House of Commons voted unanimously in 2021 to designate August 1 as Emancipation Day, serving as a reminder of the ongoing fight against racism.
Food and music truly have a way of bringing us all closer. With delicious Ghanaian cuisine and live jazz music, the festival’s warm atmosphere spread good vibes that everyone loved!
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