City of Toronto: City Proclamations

City of Toronto Proclamation

"Black History Month"

February 2003

WHEREAS:	the celebration of Black History Month began in Toronto during the 1950's upon petition by the Canadian Negro Women's Association to Toronto City Council, and has been a national celebration since 1995; and
WHEREAS:	Black History Month is a time to pay tribute to the accomplishments of the people of African descent and the members of the Black community who continue to contribute to the social, cultural, economic and political life of our City; and
WHEREAS:	Toronto City Council and the people of Toronto have been in the forefront of efforts to recognize that our society's fundamental strength lies in its unique racial and ethno-cultural diversity and have committed themselves to the elimination of racism and all forms of discrimination; and
WHEREAS:	the City of Toronto continues to take a leadership role in the fight for the elimination of all forms of discrimination and disadvantage, and is committed to equal treatment of all people regardless of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, disability, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, family status, receipt of public assistance, political affiliation, religious affiliation, record of offences or level of literacy.
NOW,
THEREFORE:	I, Mayor Mel Lastman, on behalf of Toronto City Council and the 2.5 million people of our great City, do hereby proclaim February 2003 as "Black History Month" in the City of Toronto.

[Signed Mayor Mel Lastman]