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  • March 25: Get Involved in Your Municipal Government

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    Promotional flyer. All text below. Images of a voting box and hands.


    Get Involved in Your Municipal Government!

    Wednesday, March 25, 6::00 PM, Buxton Museum, 21975 A.D. Shadd Road, North Buxton

    All welcome!

    Learn about ways to make your voice heard in Chatham-Kent. From watching Council meetings, contacting Councillors, joining Committees, voting, or even running for Council. Join the Municipality of Chatham-Kent's Clerk and members of Council to hear how you can help shape your community.

    Light refreshments will be provided.

    Brought to you by Buxton's Next Generation and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.

  • March 26: CK Local Immigration Partnership Forum

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    Flyer promoring the Forum. All text included below. Images of facilitators included.


    CK Local Immigration Partnership (CK LIP) invites you to the 2026 Annual Forum!

    Join them for breakfast and engage on the CK LIP Community Plan.

    Thursday, March 26, 2026
    8:30 am Registration and Breakfast.
    9:00 am – 11:00 am Progarmming
    Derby Room, Retro Suites Hotel, 2 King St. W, Chatham

    Registration is required via EventBrite.

    This year’s forum will provide an opportunity to collaborate on action planning and shared commitments that will strengthen Chatham-Kent as a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming community.

    You also will hear insights from members of the Immigrant Advisory Group as they discuss their challenges, successes, and why they chose to make Chatham-Kent their home.

    Facilitated by Centre for Community Based Research, Lisa Schincariol McMurty and Dayan De Souza. Sponsored by Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada.

    Learn more about CK LIP www.chatham-kent.ca/cklip

  • Resources for Running for Municipal Council

    The next municipal election in Chatham-Kent is October 26, 2026. Below are resources for people considering running for Council.


    Chatham-Kent Candidate Information Session

    April 16, 6:00 PM.

    Join Chatham-Kent's Municipal Clerk to learn about responsibilities, expectations, timelines, and what to know before filing your nomination.

    More information on our Let's Talk page.


    Upcoming Workshops

    The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is offering a series of FREE workshops for people who are thinking about running for municipal Council in 2026. The sessions will provide useful insights and strategies. Some workshops are specifically for people in equity-deserving communities.


    Additional Resources

    Find information about the 2026 Chatham-Kent municipal election on the Municipality of Chatham-Kent website.

    Learn about other ways to get involved in municipal government on the Municipality of Chatham-Kent website

    Learn about the general process of running for local Council from Association of Municipalities.

    Find additional resources and organizations that support equity-deserving communities to run for municipal office on the Association of Municipalities of Ontario website.

  • April 13: Screening of Nika & Madison

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    Promotional image for move. Images of Nika infront of a backgdrop of rural landscape with trees and water and Madison infront of a city scape.


    Chatham-Kent Film Group Screening: Nika & Madison

    April 13, 4:00PM and 7:00PM

    Galaxy Cinemas

    Purchase tickets at the door for $12.

    Director, Walpole Island First Nations’s Eva Thomas, will be present for the screenings! Don’t miss out on the chance to meet this fabulous, local director!

    Nika & Madison expands upon Walpole Island First Nation Director Eva Thomas’ short film Redlights (TIFF ’23), which was propelled by what are called Starlight Tours — where Canadian police officers drive Indigenous people to isolated locations outside of city limits, and dump them there, putting them in danger of frostbite, hypothermia, and, all too often, a frozen death.

    In Thomas’ solo directorial feature debut, Madison (Star Slade) returns home to her community from university, greeted by her less-than-enthusiastic former best friend and cousin, Nika (Ellyn Jade). When Nika rejects Madison’s offer to accompany her to the local bar, a fateful decision is made. After some drinks, Madison winds up in the back of a young police officer’s car, and things go very wrong from there. He attacks her, and Madison comes to her rescue. While the pair are forced back together, on the run, two police officers (played by Amanda Brugel and Shawn Doyle) investigate what really happened.

    While the police brutality and systemic racism that could lead to something as horrific as the Starlight Tours are the jumping off point, it is the relationship between the women that is the core of the film. The tension, both in their friendship and in their opposing lifestyles — one is more traditional and hunts, while the other is urban and outgoing — makes Nika & Madison crackle with intensity.

    - Description written by Kelly Boutsalis


    Learn more from the Chatham-Kent Film Group website


  • April 18: 2026 Black Excellence Awards & Gala

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    Nominations are Now Open and Tickets are For Sale!

    The Chatham-Kent Black Excellence Awards & Gala returns on April 18, 2026 at the Everest Convention Centre.

    This Black-Tie event is filled with recognition, culture, community, and celebration of local Black leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, youth, artists, advocates, and changemakers.

    Proudly presented through a collaborative partnership between Buxton National Historic Site & Museum, Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum, Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History, and Buxton’s Next Generation. With the generosity of our title sponsor Enbridge.

    Nominate community members for awards before April 9, 2026.

    Purchase tickets before they sell-out.

    Visit the Black Excellence Awards & Gala Facebook page for more information.

  • Learn about Ramadan

    Graphic with lanters and stars and text 'Ramadan Mubarak'.


    Ramadan is here!

    Observed during the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar and dependent on sightings of the Moon, Ramadan is expected to be honoured this year from February 17th – March 19th.

    During Ramadan, Muslims heighten their spiritual commitment and practice self-discipline. It is considered a time for physical and spiritual cleansing. Although there is diversity in the way people honour the month, during Ramadan, people may fast during daylight hours, commit to acts of charity and engage in increased periods of reflection and prayer.

    For Muslims, Ramadan also commemorates the revelation of the Qur’an, Islam’s holy book to the Prophet Muhammed (Peace Be Upon Him), God's Messenger.

    The end of Ramadan is celebrated with Eid al-Fitr, a festival of gratitude, forgiveness and connection with family. This significant holiday is celebrated over several days with prayer, charity, social gatherings and gift exchanges.

    Ramadan Mubarak to everyone honouring this blessed month!


    Learn More:

    Learn about how to be supportive of people honouring Ramadan in the workplace through our tip sheet created in partnership with the Chatham Islamic Centre.

    Find information about local ethno-cultural community groups and places of worship on the Living CK website.


  • New! CK Alert


    The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has launched CKAlert, a new emergency notification service.

    Signing up for this service will allow residents to receive important public safety messages in the event of a major emergency in the community, such as flooding, boil water advisories, major road closures, and more.

    Learn more about the service and sign up on the Municipality of Chatham-Kent's website.

  • Website: Free Food Resources in CK

    Flyer promoting the website with free food resources in Chatham-Kent. All text is included below.


    The Municipality of Chatham-Kent's Employment and Social Services program has created a website with information for people who may need food assistance, including resources like:

    • food banks
    • little free pantries
    • soup kitchens
    • food voucher programs
    • drop-in/outreach services.

    Visit www.chatham-kent.ca/EmergencyFood or scan the QR code above to go to the website.

    These services are here to support individuals and families in our community. Whether you're in immediate need or looking for ongoing assistance, there are options available to help you.

  • February 2026: Black History Month in Chatham-Kent


    February is Black History Month!

    Each February, we are proud to honour Black History Month, an opportunity to recognize the histories and achievements of Black Canadians and communities.

    Chatham-Kent is home to some of the most successful Black settlements in Canadian history, shaping the Chatham-Kent, and Canada, we know today. In Chatham-Kent, three historic sites are dedicated to sharing these local histories, Buxton National Historic Site & Museum, The Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum, and The Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History.


    Why do we honour Black History Month?

    Although Black communities have been an important part of Canada’s heritage, the stories, achievements, and contributions of African-Canadian and Black individuals and communities is often left out of mainstream recounting of Canadian history. This shared history is important all year, but having a designated Black History Month ensures these stories are told. The month is an opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of Black community members and the continued struggles for liberation, equity, and justice. It isn't about special treatment or division; it's about filling gaps so we can have a complete and honest picture of our shared history and can build a future where everyone sees themselves reflected and valued.


    How was Black History Month established?

    In Canada, Black History Month was first proclaimed in 1978 by the City of Toronto as a result of advocacy by the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS), including Dr. Daniel G. Hill and Wilson O. Brooks.

    In 1993, the OBHS successfully filed a petition in Ontario to proclaim February as Black History Month. Following that success, Rosemary Sadlier, president of the OBHS, introduced the idea of having Black History Month recognized across Canada to the Honourable Jean Augustine, the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament.

    In December 1995, the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month in Canada following a motion introduced by Dr. Augustine. The House of Commons carried the motion unanimously.

    In February 2008, Senator Donald Oliver, the first Black man appointed to the Senate, introduced the Motion to Recognize Contributions of Black Canadians and February as Black History Month. It received unanimous approval and was adopted on March 4, 2008. The adoption of this motion completed Canada’s parliamentary position on Black History Month.


    Celebrate Black History Month with the Municipality of Chatham-Kent!

    Discover local history, inspiring stories, and vibrant community events throughout February on the Visit CK website. Learn about municipal programs below.


    🚩 January 30, 12:00 PM – Black History Month Flag Raising

    Location: Chatham Civic Centre, 315 King St W, Chatham
    Join us as we raise the flag to officially begin Black History Month. Hosted by The Buxton National Historic Site & Museum, The Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum, The Josiah Henson Museum of African Canadian History, and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Everyone is welcome!
    ➡️ Come celebrate with us at noon and show your support!


    🎥 February 4, 7:00 PM – Movie Night: Harriet

    Location: Chatham Capitol Theatre
    Experience the incredible story of Harriet Tubman—her escape from slavery and heroic missions to free others via the Underground Railroad.
    Tickets: $7 at the door
    ➡️ https://www.chathamcapitoltheatre.com for more information

    📚 February 7, 10:30 AM – Celebrate Black History Month

    Location: Chatham-Kent Public Library, Chatham Branch
    Enjoy a free story and hands-on music experience for all ages. Presented in partnership with Buxton National Historic Site & Museum.
    ➡️ Bring the family to drop-in and join us for this interactive celebration!

    🎥 February 11, 7:00 PM – Movie Night: 42: The Jackie Robinson Story

    Location: Chatham Capitol Theatre
    Witness the powerful true story of Jackie Robinson breaking baseball’s color barrier.
    Tickets: $7 at the door
    ➡️ https://www.chathamcapitoltheatre.com for more information

    🎨 February 14 & 21 – Kids Club Featuring Artis Shreve Lane

    • February 14, 9:00–10:00 AM: Imagination Station, Chatham (Register online)
    • February 21, 11:00–12:00 PM: Wallaceburg Library Branch (Register with library)
    Children ages 6–12 will learn about local artist Artis Shreve Lane and create clay sculptures. Free Program – Registration Required.
    ➡️ Sign up now—spaces are limited!


    🧵 February 16 - Family Day: Sound Suits!

    Location: ArtSpark, Gallery Mezzanine, Thames Art Gallery
    Learn about artist Nick Cave and his extraordinary Sound Suits—vibrant works that blend fashion, performance, and sculpture. Families are invited to create their own Sound Suit designs using markers and craft materials from the art cart.
    ➡️ A fun, creative drop-in activity for all ages!

    🎉 February 18, 6:00 PM - 12AM – Virtual Trivia Night

    Test your Chatham-Kent Black History knowledge through virtual trivial. Partnership between CK Public Library and CK Museums.
    ➡️Join in on CKPL's Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/CKPLibrary

    🎥 February 18, 7:00 PM – Movie Night: The Princess and The Frog

    Location: Chatham Capitol Theatre
    A reimagining of the classic fairy tale.
    Tickets: $7 at the door
    ➡️ https://www.chathamcapitoltheatre.com for more information

    🎥 February 24, 7:00 PM – Movie Night: Selma

    Location: Chatham Capitol Theatre
    Chronicles the historic 1965 voting rights march from Selma to Montgomery, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr
    Tickets: $7 at the door
    ➡️ https://www.chathamcapitoltheatre.com for more information

    📖 All Month – Explore & Celebrate

    • Travelling Exhibit: Let Us March on Til Victory is Won – Book or view online through CK Museums.
    • Read Black Voices: Visit CKPL branches or online to discover books by Black authors and illustrators. Or check out their children's reading list.
    • Local History Displays: Dresden Municipal Centre & Chatham Civic Centre, in partnership with Buxton National Historic Site & Museum, Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History, and Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum
    ➡️ Visit exhibits, borrow a book, and share the stories that shaped our community!