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Celebrating diversity during Black History Month

February 03, 2020

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People with roots from around the world work at Runnymede Healthcare Centre and we believe this diversity is one of our key strengths. An important way we acknowledge and celebrate our diversity is through our annual Black History Month celebration.

February 19, 2020 will mark the 16th anniversary of our Black History Month event at Runnymede. A long-standing highlight for staff, the event is an opportunity to gather and recognize the contributions that Canadians of African and Caribbean descent have made – and continue to make – to our country.

In addition to fantastic food and music, the celebrations provide staff with an opportunity to learn about other cultures. Esteemed members of the Black community have joined us over the years to share incredible stories about how they broke down barriers so younger generations could dream bigger.

The Honourable Jean Augustine inspired us with her story about making history as the first African Canadian woman elected to Canada’s House of Commons. Chief Mark Saunders shared his journey about rising through the ranks to become the first member of the Black community to lead the Toronto Police Service.

This year’s celebration will include an exhibit from the Canadian Multicultural Inventors Museum, which highlights the Black community’s contributions to science and medicine. The exhibit aims to raise awareness of the inventors and their many innovations while providing important historical context.

The Black community continues to make strides in healthcare today. Many of our own staff of African and Caribbean heritage continue this tradition of excellence, and we’re proud to honour them through our Black History Month celebration. For more information about Black History Month events happening in and around your community visit the City of Toronto website.