By Kojo
The Jamaican Canadian Affiliation (JCA) hosted its annual Boonoonoos Brunch final Sunday at its headquarters on Arrow Highway, bringing collectively group leaders, dignitaries, and visitors to have fun Black Historical past Month underneath the theme of “Legacy and Resilience”. The occasion featured inspiring speeches, recognition of excellent group members, and reflections on the enduring impression of Black Canadians.
Among the many distinguished audio system was JCA President David Betty, who emphasised the significance of preserving and uplifting Black heritage by means of collective motion. Kirt Davis, Consul Common of Jamaica in Toronto, additionally addressed the viewers, acknowledging the numerous contributions of Jamaicans to Canadian society and the broader diaspora.
The JCA honored three exemplary people for his or her contributions to the group: Nicholas Marcus-Thompson, Stacy Clarke, and Kevin R. Junor. Every honoree has demonstrated resilience and dedication of their respective fields, serving as function fashions for future generations.
The keynote deal with was delivered by Alethia O’Hara-Stevenson, a revered advocate and chief. O’Hara Stevenson, the founder and president of the Dufferin County Canadian Black Affiliation, shared a robust message on the energy of Black heritage and the necessity to proceed pushing for fairness. Acknowledged as one of many 2024 Achieved Black Canadian Girls, she spoke in regards to the perseverance of Black communities in Canada.
“As we collect for this celebration, I’m struck by the importance of the second. That is greater than only a brunch—it’s a recognition of our shared tradition, historical past, and achievements,” Stevenson mentioned. “There are some who draw back from discussions of our painful previous, however we should confront and bear in mind historical past. Somebody in our bloodline survived in order that we could possibly be right here as we speak.”
She highlighted the legacy of the Proper Wonderful Marcus Mosiah Garvey, noting his teachings as a guiding drive within the ongoing battle for Black empowerment. Stevenson urged attendees to embrace resilience not solely as a historic testomony however as a name to motion within the current day.
The occasion additionally shone a highlight on the achievements of the honorees. Nicholas Marcus-Thompson, a robust advocate for office fairness, is main a landmark class motion lawsuit in opposition to the federal authorities for systemic discrimination in opposition to Black workers. His work has been instrumental in pushing for coverage adjustments and elevated illustration in Canada’s public service.
Superintendent Stacy Clarke, a devoted regulation enforcement officer, shared her journey of breaking obstacles in policing. She spoke of the significance of illustration and mentorship, emphasizing that each step ahead creates alternatives for others to observe.
Captain Kevin R. Junor, a retired army officer, mirrored on the challenges of being a Black chief within the Canadian Armed Forces. He pressured the significance of resilience and lifting others up by means of mentorship and advocacy.
The Boonoonoos Brunch was not solely a celebration of particular person achievements but in addition a name to motion for the broader group. Audio system emphasised the necessity for continued funding in Black youth, assist for Black-owned companies, and advocacy for equitable insurance policies in Canada.
Consul Common Kirt Davis reminded the viewers of the indelible mark that Jamaicans have left in Canada throughout numerous sectors, from politics and training to enterprise and the humanities. He additionally acknowledged the current posthumous pardon of Marcus Garvey by U.S. President Joe Biden, calling it a major however long-overdue step in recognizing Garvey’s contributions to world Black empowerment.
The occasion concluded with a convincing message of unity and perseverance. Attendees had been inspired to hold ahead the legacy of those that got here earlier than them and to proceed pushing for progress of their communities.
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