BLACK HISTORY MONTH - FEBRUARY 2007

Whereas, diversity of social identity, including racial and cultural identity, contributes positively to the development of society and is a matter for pride and celebration; and

Whereas, people of African heritage work to challenge continued individual and systemic discrimination on the basis of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship and creed; and

Whereas, people of African heritage are vital contributors to the fabric of Canadian society and the Kingston community; and

Whereas, the legacy of racial discrimination in Canada has involved the exclusion of people of African heritage from history and from full participation in communities; and

Whereas, the histories of people of African heritage contribute to the enrichment of Canadian history;

I, Mayor Harvey Rosen for the City of Kingston, Ontario, therefore, proclaim the month of February 2007 to be "Black History Month" in the City of Kingston.

DATED at Kingston this 8th day of January, 2007
Harvey Rosen, Mayor