Brampton Centre MPP Sara Singh tables bill to proclaim August Caribbean Heritage Month in Ontario
QUEEN’S PARK — NDP MPP for Brampton Centre, Sara Singh, tabled a bill in the Legislature Wednesday that, if passed, would proclaim the month of August each year as Caribbean Heritage Month in Ontario.
MPP Singh has held a series of public consultations in recent months — including in Brampton, Scarborough and at Queen’s Park -- to gather community input on how best to establish a Caribbean Heritage Month in Ontario.
“I am so pleased to put forth a bill that seeks to proclaim the month of August as Caribbean Heritage Month,” Singh said. “This month is an opportunity to recognize the history of the Caribbean region, its culture, and the significant contributions Caribbean Canadians have made to Ontario, as well as the many economic, political, social and culture achievements of Caribbean Canadians.”
Andria Barrett, President of the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce, expressed support for Singh’s bill, saying, “We believe this bill is an opportunity to promote and recognize the economic, social and cultural achievements and contributions of our members in all aspects of Ontario society.”
Grant Browning, CEO of Carib101 Media Group said: “I am pleased to see that efforts are being made to have a month recognized as Caribbean Heritage Month. Caribbean Canadians have contributed to many aspects of our society and they have much to be proud of.”
“The month of August resonated most as the ideal month to highlight the rich culture and diverse heritage of the Caribbean, because of the existing Caribbean festivals that take place in August corresponding to popular festivals in the Caribbean region — including various Independence Days and the end of harvest season,” stated Singh.
On November 28, Singh will host a reception at Queen’s Park to celebrate the tabling of her bill. The reception will take place at 3:30 p.m. in Room 351. Community members and media are encouraged to attend.