On Feb. 10, Collingwood’s dignitaries, town staff and members of the town’s Unity Collective raised the flag on Black History Month, celebrated throughout the month of February.
Dr. Farel Anderson, retired dentist and Collingwood’s first-ever Black councillor said a few words ahead of raising the flag.
“Today’s flag-raising is of profound importance and significance far beyond ceremony,” said Anderson. “It must be seen as a very powerful symbol of identity. For those in the community: Black, white and everything in between, must celebrate in unity.”
He noted an uptick in acts of violence against racialized communities around the world.
“We’ve seen people motivated by hatred, prejudice and discrimination. We don’t want to see these types of acts here in Collingwood, so we need to be part of that. It behooves us all to take notice,” said Anderson.
“We must strive together for an anti-racist future for this country and community,” he said.
Marcia Hubbs was also in attendance to help raise the flag.
“To me, it’s absolutely incredible to live in this little northern town that is so unique,” said Hubbs. “In Collingwood, I am so impressed by my community. Everybody here is welcome.”
“It’s incredible,” she said.
In celebration of Black History Month, Heritage Community Church at 310 Seventh St. will be hosting a Celebrating Black History exhibit from Feb. 18 to 21 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. each day.