Articles

Category diversity Show all

Indigenous Veterans Day and Remembrance Day

November 8th is Indigenous Veterans Day and November 11th is Remembrance Day in Canada.
These days are a chance for us to recognize the courage, contributions, and sacrifices of Veterans who serves our Country. We remember. We honour. We are grateful.
Find a list of local Remembrance Day events on CKXS website: LIST OF REMEMBRANCE DAY EVENTS IN CHATHAM-KENT - 99.1 FM CKXS | Your Music Variety
Find names and stories of World War I and World War II heroes from Chatham-Kent: Gathering Our Heroes – Chatham-Kent's WWI & WWII Veterans
Learn about Remembrance Day: Remembrance Day - Canada.ca
LearnContinue reading
November 8th is Indigenous Veterans Day and November 11th is Remembrance Day in Canada.
These days are a chance for us to recognize the courage, contributions, and sacrifices of Veterans who serves our Country. We remember. We honour. We are grateful.
Find a list of local Remembrance Day events on CKXS website: LIST OF REMEMBRANCE DAY EVENTS IN CHATHAM-KENT - 99.1 FM CKXS | Your Music Variety
Find names and stories of World War I and World War II heroes from Chatham-Kent: Gathering Our Heroes – Chatham-Kent's WWI & WWII Veterans
Learn about Remembrance Day: Remembrance Day - Canada.ca
Learn about Indigenous Veterans Day: Indigenous Veterans | Veterans Affairs Canada
Learn about Black Canadians in Uniform: Black Canadians in uniform | Veterans Affairs Canada
Learn about Women in Service Women in service | Veterans Affairs Canada
Learn about 2SLGBTQIA+ in Service Pride in service | Veterans Affairs Canada

Visit the Storybook Trail in Kingston Park to read "The Little Red Flower: A Story of Remembrance" by Christopher Stokes.
Visit the CK Museum until November 12 to see a panel exhibit that reflects Chatham-Kent's experiences during the First World War. Images and descriptions courtesy of Ley and Lois Smith Collection in the Department of History at Western University.
Nov 12: My Hockey Hero

Thursday, November 12, 6:00 p.m.
Sons of Kent Brewing Co., 27 Adelaide Street, South, Chatham
Join the Buxton National Historical Site & Museum and the Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society for an inspiring evening with Dr. Dean Barnes, award-winning podcaster, educator, and advocate for equity and inclusion.
Creator and host of the My Hockey Hero podcast, Dr. Barnes has collected the rookie cards of nearly 100 Black and biracial NHL players, including legends Willie O'Ree, Grant Fuhr, and Jarome Iginla. His remarkable collection was featured in the NHL's Black Hockey History mobile museum.
Dr. Barnes will be bringing his collection alongContinue reading

Thursday, November 12, 6:00 p.m.
Sons of Kent Brewing Co., 27 Adelaide Street, South, Chatham
Join the Buxton National Historical Site & Museum and the Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society for an inspiring evening with Dr. Dean Barnes, award-winning podcaster, educator, and advocate for equity and inclusion.
Creator and host of the My Hockey Hero podcast, Dr. Barnes has collected the rookie cards of nearly 100 Black and biracial NHL players, including legends Willie O'Ree, Grant Fuhr, and Jarome Iginla. His remarkable collection was featured in the NHL's Black Hockey History mobile museum.
Dr. Barnes will be bringing his collection along for attendees to see in person!
November 13 2026: Flag Raising for Transgender Awareness Week

During Transgender Awareness Week, every year from November 13th to 19th, individuals and organizations recognize the experiences and contributions of transgender and gender diverse people and communities. The week-long celebration leads up to the Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20th, an annual observance honoring the lives lost to acts of transphobic violence and systemic oppression.
Whether you are celebrating your trans pride or engaging in education and advocacy as an ally, Transgender Awareness Week is a time for showing up, speaking up, and supporting one another.
Friday, November 13, 12:00 - 12:30 PM,
Transgender Awareness Week FlagContinue reading
During Transgender Awareness Week, every year from November 13th to 19th, individuals and organizations recognize the experiences and contributions of transgender and gender diverse people and communities. The week-long celebration leads up to the Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20th, an annual observance honoring the lives lost to acts of transphobic violence and systemic oppression.
Whether you are celebrating your trans pride or engaging in education and advocacy as an ally, Transgender Awareness Week is a time for showing up, speaking up, and supporting one another.
Friday, November 13, 12:00 - 12:30 PM,
Transgender Awareness Week Flag Raising
Civic Centre, Chatham (315 King Street West)
Open to everyone. Organized by CK Pride.

Flag raisings, like those for Transgender Awareness Week, affirm that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. They demonstrate a commitment to human rights and a welcoming community.
November 14 2026: Diwali Event

Join the Chatham-Kent Asian Cultural Association for Diwali in Chatham-Kent 2026, an evening celebrating the festival of lights!

Saturday, November 14, 2026 at Chatham-Kent Secondary School, 285 McNaughton Ave East, Chatham.
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. Dinner (registration required)
7:00 - 10:00 p.m. Cultural programme (free and open to all)

For dinner registration: Scan the QR code above or visit Diwali in CK 2026 - Dinner Registration
For more information: 519-401-3162 or ckaca.events@gmail.com

Supported by Riverview Gaming Centre.

About Diwali
Diwali is also known as the festival of lights. It is the biggest and one of the most important holidays forContinue reading

Join the Chatham-Kent Asian Cultural Association for Diwali in Chatham-Kent 2026, an evening celebrating the festival of lights!

Saturday, November 14, 2026 at Chatham-Kent Secondary School, 285 McNaughton Ave East, Chatham.
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. Dinner (registration required)
7:00 - 10:00 p.m. Cultural programme (free and open to all)

For dinner registration: Scan the QR code above or visit Diwali in CK 2026 - Dinner Registration
For more information: 519-401-3162 or ckaca.events@gmail.com

Supported by Riverview Gaming Centre.

About Diwali
Diwali is also known as the festival of lights. It is the biggest and one of the most important holidays for many people in our community. The festival began as a Hindu celebration but is now celebrated by many communities with different legends associated with the festival. What remains consistent across the legends is the theme of good triumphing over evil.
Diwali (or Deepavali) means row of lights in Sanskrit. This is why Diyas (a traditional lamp) and fireworks are important symbols during the festival. These symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness.
Diwali is celebrated over 5 days and marks the start of the Hindu New Year. Over these days, people clean and decorate their homes, shop for gold items to bring good fortune, draw Rangoli, lights fireworks, pray, feast, share gifts, and visit with family and friends.
The exact dates Diwali is honoured change each year and are determined by the position of the moon. Usually, Diwali falls in October or November.
Nov 24 2026: Western Ontario Funders Forum

Connect with provincial ministries and funding organizations about upcoming grant programs, eligibility requirements, application timelines, and funding priorities.
Tuesday, November 24, 2026, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Studio One, Chatham Cultural Centre, 75 William Street North, Chatham
Registration is required. Register at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness website to compete your registration.

Join the Western Ontario Fall Funders Forum Series. This in-person event is a valuable opportunity to:
• Learn about funding programs and deadlines
• Understand eligibility and application expectations
• Connect with ministry representatives and regional stakeholders
• Ask questions and gain insights in a supportiveContinue reading
Connect with provincial ministries and funding organizations about upcoming grant programs, eligibility requirements, application timelines, and funding priorities.
Tuesday, November 24, 2026, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Studio One, Chatham Cultural Centre, 75 William Street North, Chatham
Registration is required. Register at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness website to compete your registration.

Join the Western Ontario Fall Funders Forum Series. This in-person event is a valuable opportunity to:
• Learn about funding programs and deadlines
• Understand eligibility and application expectations
• Connect with ministry representatives and regional stakeholders
• Ask questions and gain insights in a supportive setting

Participants will hear presentations from representatives of:
• Ministry of Rural Affairs (MRA)
• Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade (MEDJCT)
• Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD)
• Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming (MTCG)
• Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA)
• Community Futures
• Ontario Small Business Advisory Centres

Please feel free to share this opportunity with any organizations, businesses, operators, or community partners that may be interested in applying for grant funding
Nov 25: Flag Raising for Int. Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

November 25, 2026, 12:00 - 12:45 p.m.
In honour of International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, join Chatham-Kent Coordinating Committee to End Violence Against Women to raise their flag.
Then, join Zonta Club of Chatham-Kent for 'Zonta Says No on the Bridge" from 12:15 - 12:45 on Third Street Bridge. The event is to raise awareness and be in solidarity against gender-based violence. Participants are encouraged to wear orange or purple.
Everyone welcome.

November 25, 2026, 12:00 - 12:45 p.m.
In honour of International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, join Chatham-Kent Coordinating Committee to End Violence Against Women to raise their flag.
Then, join Zonta Club of Chatham-Kent for 'Zonta Says No on the Bridge" from 12:15 - 12:45 on Third Street Bridge. The event is to raise awareness and be in solidarity against gender-based violence. Participants are encouraged to wear orange or purple.
Everyone welcome.
Due Nov 27: Youth Fellowship Program Association of Municipalities of Ontario

Youth engagement matters in a healthy democracy because the repercussions from decisions made today are theirs to live with and resolve; because youth perspective is valuable and improves decisions; and because democratic engagement is a habit best formed early.
AMO Youth Fellowship Program
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario's (AMO) Youth Fellowship Program is a work-integrated learning opportunity that provides three young people from across Ontario who are interested in municipal politics with an opportunity to connect with Ontario’s most influential municipal advocacy organization.

Participants engage with AMO’s governing Board of Directors, receive mentorship from an AMO Board member, haveContinue reading
Youth engagement matters in a healthy democracy because the repercussions from decisions made today are theirs to live with and resolve; because youth perspective is valuable and improves decisions; and because democratic engagement is a habit best formed early.
AMO Youth Fellowship Program
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario's (AMO) Youth Fellowship Program is a work-integrated learning opportunity that provides three young people from across Ontario who are interested in municipal politics with an opportunity to connect with Ontario’s most influential municipal advocacy organization.

Participants engage with AMO’s governing Board of Directors, receive mentorship from an AMO Board member, have firsthand insight into the critical municipal issues of the day and the policy development process that supports Ontario’s municipalities. AMO Youth Fellows also have front row seats as AMO engages important advocacy mechanisms and approaches in supporting their membership.

AMO is now accepting applications for the 2027 Youth Fellowship Program.
To learn more about the fellowship structure, expectations, activities, and application process, please review the Application Form. If you have any questions, please email WGardiner@amo.on.ca.

Application Deadline: November 27, 2026, at 10:00 p.m. ET

Information Session
Interested applicants are encouraged to attend a virtual information session on November 23, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. ET to learn more about the program.
During the session, participants will receive an overview of the program, including expectations, time commitments, and the benefits of participating in the Youth Fellowship experience.

Learn more from the AMO Youth Engagement website.
New! Hate Motivated Incident Counselling & Referral Service

Family Service Kent introduces Project Pathways, Hate-Motivated Incident Counselling and Referral Service.
You are not alone. Support is available. Project Pathways provides free counselling and referral support for children over 6, youth, and adults who have been affected by hate-motivated incidents.

Hate-motivated incidents may include:
- harassment, discrimination, or intimidation
- threats or violence or harm
- discrimination or unfair treatment

The incidents may be related to:
- race, colour, religion, creed
- sexual orientation or gender identity
- disability
- cultural background
- personal characteristics

How can Project Pathways Help?
Counselling Support
- a safe and respectful place toContinue reading
Family Service Kent introduces Project Pathways, Hate-Motivated Incident Counselling and Referral Service.
You are not alone. Support is available. Project Pathways provides free counselling and referral support for children over 6, youth, and adults who have been affected by hate-motivated incidents.

Hate-motivated incidents may include:
- harassment, discrimination, or intimidation
- threats or violence or harm
- discrimination or unfair treatment

The incidents may be related to:
- race, colour, religion, creed
- sexual orientation or gender identity
- disability
- cultural background
- personal characteristics

How can Project Pathways Help?
Counselling Support
- a safe and respectful place to talk
- help understand the impact of the incident
- tools to cope with stress and strong feelings
- support based on your needs and culture

Referrals and Connections
- help finding other community services
- support connecting with the right service
- clear information about available options
- coordination with community partners when needed

Ready to Connect?
Support is available by self-referral, police, community organizations, friends, or family member.
Call: 519-354-6221 x 233
Email: intake@familyservicekent.com
www.familyservicekent.com/services/community-counselling-program/
Funded by the government of Ontario through the Safer and Vital Communities Grant.
2025 Food Insecurity in Chatham-Kent
Chatham-Kent Public Health’s newly released 2025 Cost of Eating in CK infographic reveals an alarming trend: food insecurity is getting worse in Chatham-Kent.
In 2024, they reported that at least 1 in 5 households struggled to afford enough food. In 2025, the latest data shows that the number has risen to almost 1 in 4 households, meaning close to 25% of local families are now unable to buy the food they need.
This increase highlights a growing crisis in our community, driven not by a lack of food, but by a lack of sufficient income.
“Food insecurity in Chatham-Kent isContinue reading
Chatham-Kent Public Health’s newly released 2025 Cost of Eating in CK infographic reveals an alarming trend: food insecurity is getting worse in Chatham-Kent.
In 2024, they reported that at least 1 in 5 households struggled to afford enough food. In 2025, the latest data shows that the number has risen to almost 1 in 4 households, meaning close to 25% of local families are now unable to buy the food they need.
This increase highlights a growing crisis in our community, driven not by a lack of food, but by a lack of sufficient income.
“Food insecurity in Chatham-Kent is driven by inadequate and insecure income, not a lack of food,” says Councillor Carmen McGregor, Chair of the Chatham-Kent Food Policy Council. “When people do not earn enough to cover housing, transportation, and food, they’re forced into impossible choices. Policies that support stable and adequate income, including a basic income guarantee, are critical to reducing food insecurity.”
While community organizations across Chatham-Kent provide important emergency food supports, these services offer only temporary relief. They cannot resolve the underlying issue: too many residents do not have enough income to meet basic needs.
Food insecurity comes with serious health consequences. Adults and children living without consistent access to nutritious food face poorer health outcomes.
“Food insecurity is fundamentally an income issue,” says Dr Shanker Nesathurai, Medical Officer of Health for CK Public Health. “Advancing policies that support stable and adequate income ensures that everyone in Chatham-Kent can live a healthier life.”
What Residents Can Do
CK Public Health encourages community members to take action by:

Learning more about food insecurity and its root causes

Talking openly with friends, family, and colleagues about why food insecurity happens

Advocating for income-based solutions, including a basic income guarantee, to help ensure everyone in CK can afford nutritious food

To learn more about how food insecurity affects households in Chatham-Kent, community members can visit the new CK Public Health Household Food Insecurity Dashboard. This interactive tool breaks down income scenarios and offers a deeper look at the factors driving food insecurity. Access it at www.ckphu.com/food-insecurity.
CKOHT and Partners Commitment to Action on Anti-Black Racism

Inclusion and representation are essential to building a health care system that reflects and meets the diverse needs of everyone in Chatham-Kent.
In 2021, the Chatham-Kent Ontario Health Team (CKOHT) Diversity and Equity Working Group established the Anti-Black Racism/Anti-Oppression Action Team.
For several years, the Anti-Black Racism/Anti-Oppression Action Team has heard anecdotal evidence about racism, discrimination, stereotypes, stigma and oppressive behaviours and actions occurring in health care environments in Chatham-Kent.
In 2024, the Action Team asked the community questions to understand their experiences of racism in local health care.
Find out what the Team learned and how CKOHT and PartnersContinue reading
Inclusion and representation are essential to building a health care system that reflects and meets the diverse needs of everyone in Chatham-Kent.
In 2021, the Chatham-Kent Ontario Health Team (CKOHT) Diversity and Equity Working Group established the Anti-Black Racism/Anti-Oppression Action Team.
For several years, the Anti-Black Racism/Anti-Oppression Action Team has heard anecdotal evidence about racism, discrimination, stereotypes, stigma and oppressive behaviours and actions occurring in health care environments in Chatham-Kent.
In 2024, the Action Team asked the community questions to understand their experiences of racism in local health care.
Find out what the Team learned and how CKOHT and Partners are committing to action on Anti-Black Racism through the video linked above and on the CKOHT website.