This afternoon, many community members from across Northumberland County united in a peaceful protest in Cobourg, in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
In the wake of the tragic and preventable death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota, thousands of people across North America, and around the World, have been expressing their hurt and outrage over this senseless act of violence. This tragedy contributes to a long history of oppression and discrimination against Black and other racialized communities.
As this important social justice movement continues to take shape globally, it is imperative for all of us to act now. We must take the time to listen to the daily lived experiences of those who have been victim of systemic racism, stereotyping, and prejudice in their lives. We must educate ourselves on the prevailing racism, including anti-Black, anti-Indigenous and racism against People of Colour that persists in our own community and country; only then can we really begin to contribute solutions to these historic injustices.
Most fittingly, June is Pride month. We raised the Pride flag at Town Hall the other day, to celebrate and honour the history, courage, and diversity of our LGBTQ2S+ community and allies. The Pride flag flying outside of our Town Hall also serves as a reminder to all of our residents and visitors that, here in Port Hope, there is no room for oppression or discrimination based on sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, or any other reason.
The Municipality of Port Hope stands in solidarity with those who participated at the protest, and with the Black community, the Indigenous community, and all other People of Colour. As a smaller community that is not as diversified, we must be acutely cognizant of the role that we play to confront racism, protect human rights, and remove barriers to equality.
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