Articles

Category justice Show all

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 Election Information
General Election information: Chatham-Kent | 2026 Municipal Election
Candidate Information: Candidate Information

Upcoming Information 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.

Stronger Leaders, Stronger Communities series— Has a stream for currently elected officials and another for first-time candidates.

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

Chatham-Kent Election Information
General Election information: Chatham-Kent | 2026 Municipal Election
Candidate Information: Candidate Information

Upcoming Information 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.

Stronger Leaders, Stronger Communities series— Has a stream for currently elected officials and another for first-time candidates.

Everything You Need to Know as an Underrepresented Candidate

Information Session for Youth Considering Running

Information Session for Urban Indigenous People Considering Running

Additional Resources
Learn about other ways to get involved in municipal government on the Municipality of Chatham-Kent website
Learn how to get involved in 2026 municipal elections from Association of Municipalities of Ontario.
Learn about the general process of running for local Council from Association of Municipalities of Ontario.
Find additional resources and organizations that support equity-deserving communities to run for municipal office on the Association of Municipalities of Ontario website.
June: National Indigenous History Month & National Indigenous Peoples Day

June is National Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada.
This is a time to recognize the rich histories, heritage, cultures, and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. We honour the stories, achievements, and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues today.
This month and day are opportunities to learn about the cultural diversity of Indigenous communities and promotes understanding across all communities.
Scroll down to learn about local events and resources.

Events:
Contact us to share your own event DEIJ@chatham-kent.ca
All eventsContinue reading

June is National Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada.
This is a time to recognize the rich histories, heritage, cultures, and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. We honour the stories, achievements, and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues today.
This month and day are opportunities to learn about the cultural diversity of Indigenous communities and promotes understanding across all communities.
Scroll down to learn about local events and resources.

Events:
Contact us to share your own event DEIJ@chatham-kent.ca
All events are open to everyone.

Friday, June 19, 5:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. - National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
Deshkan Ziibi, 495 King St. W., Chatham (Bleak House Lawn)
Join for a Sunrise Ceremony, light breakfast and networking, Opening, and Indigenous Craft Vendors Market & CK Partner Information Booths. Free strawberries, ice cream, and teachings.
Supported by Ska:Na Family Learning Centre, Maawnjidimi Indigenous Network, Jennen Strawberry Farm, Women's Equity Business, The Bleak House, and 7 Generations Indigenous Cultural Centre.

Saturday, June 20, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. - Indigenous History in Canada
Spririt and LIfe Centre, 184 Welling St. W, Chatham
Presentation by Tesa Fiddler, Kitchinuhmaykoosib Inninuwug & Onigaming First Nation and Sharon Giroux, M'Chigeeng First Nation.
Hosted by the Chatham Catholic Family of Parishes and the St. Clair Catholic District School Board.
Free Will offering accepted.
Learn more or register online. Or call 519-352-8530.

Month-Long
Chatham-Kent Public Library Programming

June Movies
Every Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 PM. In recognition of National Indigenous History Month CK Public Library will showcase powerful storytelling brought to life by Indigenous Directors, Producers, and Actors. Registration not required. A $2.00 donation is suggested at the door. Learn more on the CK Public Library website.

Recommended Reads
Visit Chatham-Kent Public Library on Facebook or Instagram for reading recommendations with Indigenous authors and illustrators.

Resources:

Learn about local First Nations, important terminology, cultural identities, regional and cultural differences, local Treaties and historical relationships, and important principles and values through the resource A Road to Understanding Indigenous Culture.
Developed through collaboration with local Indigenous Knowledge Holders with the goal of fostering better understanding and connection with each other.
Find the electronic resource on the Living CK website. Hard copies of the resource are available at CK Public Library branches.

Learn about National Indigenous History Month, National Indigenous Peoples Day, the images in the banner above and find resources to continue learning on the government of Canada's website.
Pride Season 2026
Note: If you’d like to deepen your understanding of 2SLGBTQIA+ terminology and communities, visit the CK Pride website for learning resources. CK Pride
is a not-for-profit volunteer community organization that aims to be collaborative and responsive in celebrating and supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ lives in Chatham-Kent throughout the year!

June kicks off Pride Season, when we celebrate the diverse Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual and additional identities (2SLGBTQIA+) communities in Chatham-Kent!

The History of Pride Celebrations
Many people are unaware that pride celebrations started as protests. In the U.S.A., in June 1969, police raided the Stonewall InnContinue reading
Note: If you’d like to deepen your understanding of 2SLGBTQIA+ terminology and communities, visit the CK Pride website for learning resources. CK Pride
is a not-for-profit volunteer community organization that aims to be collaborative and responsive in celebrating and supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ lives in Chatham-Kent throughout the year!

June kicks off Pride Season, when we celebrate the diverse Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual and additional identities (2SLGBTQIA+) communities in Chatham-Kent!

The History of Pride Celebrations
Many people are unaware that pride celebrations started as protests. In the U.S.A., in June 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay club, in Greenwich Village, New York. The raid led to six days of riots and protests by residents, staff, and bar patrons, many of whom were racialized trans people. The riots, now known as the ‘Stonewall riots’ were a catalyst for the gay rights movement in the United States, and around the World. People often associate June with Pride month, which has roots in the Stonewall riots.
But, in Canada, the first large-scale protest for what we now call 2SLGBTQIA+ rights took place in August 1971.The 'We Demand Rally' was held at Parliament Hill in Ottawa, with a smaller rally in Vancouver. Demonstrators presented Parliament with a list of 10 demands to change laws discriminating against 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. Two years, later, in August 1973, Pride Week events were held in several major cities across Canada. These included rallies for 2SLGTBQIA+ rights. This is why some communities in Canada (including Chatham--Kent) honour Pride in August instead of June.
Of course, throughout time and history there has been celebration of, and resistance among, what we now call 2SLGBTQIA+ people and communities. Learn more from the Canadian Museum of History.

Learn about Pride flags from the government of Canada.

How is Pride celebrated today?
There is a growing movement to use the term Pride season in recognition of the diverse history of 2SLGBTQIA+ rights movements, and the various times and ways Pride is celebrated. Now, Pride gatherings are used to honour the work that has been done and to raise awareness about the work still needed to achieve respect, dignity, safety, and rights for all 2SLGBTQIA+ people. It is also a time when people who may at other times feel unsafe or marginalized because of their identities have a short window of time and place to honour their authentic selves. Events include parades, rallies, workshops, concerts as well as memorials and commemorations for community members, family, and friends who lost someone due to hate crimes and HIV/AIDS.

How is Pride Honoured in Chatham-Kent?
In Chatham-Kent, Pride is celebrated in August, with a week of events organized by CK Pride.
Learn about local Pride events on the CK Pride website. Learn about CK Pride's history on the CK Pride website.
Events are open to 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and aspiring allies - anyone who supports 2SLGBTQIA+ human rights.

How Can I Demonstrate Allyship to 2SLGBTQIA+ Communities?
You can support 2SLGBTQIA+ communities all-year, not just during Pride Season! We all want to feel welcomed and supported. Some ideas include:

Learn about the experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and histories, for example, through websites, books, podcasts, films, or attending local events

Reflect on assumptions or biases you or others around you may have and challenge yourself to be more open

Use inclusive language - avoid gendered language (i.e. partner instead of assuming boyfriend of girlfriend)

Use appropriate pronouns and avoid assumptions about how people identify

Respectfully intervene to offer a different opinion when you hear homophobic or transphobic comments

Accompany friends or family members to a Pride event to show your support and celebrate the community

Display rainbow or other 2SLGBTQIA+ flags or symbols in your home, office, or car
Note: Free 'Our Door is Open to Everyone' window clings are available at Bill's Place or CK Public Libraries

Listen and be empathetic to 2SLGBTQIA+ community member's experiences if they share

Support charities that support 2SLGBTQIA+ communities

None of us are perfect, be gentle with yourself along the way, and keep learning and trying!
To folks celebrating - we celebrate you throughout the year, but especially during Pride Season!
June 19: Walpole Island First Nation Summer Solstice Celebration

You are invited to the 2026 Walpole Island First Nation (WIFN) Summer Solstice Celebration on Walpole Island at High Banks Park (2149 River Rd.) on June 19, starting at 12pm!

There will be free BBQ, horse and carriage rides, live music, pontoon rides, and MUCH MORE!

Then join at 10pm for a FIREWORKS SHOW! See flyer for more details!

If you are interested in volunteering, please message them on Facebook or email darr.sands@wifn.org

Sponsored by WIFN Social Services, WIFN Health Centre, Wiijnokiiying Ontario Works.

All are welcome!

You are invited to the 2026 Walpole Island First Nation (WIFN) Summer Solstice Celebration on Walpole Island at High Banks Park (2149 River Rd.) on June 19, starting at 12pm!

There will be free BBQ, horse and carriage rides, live music, pontoon rides, and MUCH MORE!

Then join at 10pm for a FIREWORKS SHOW! See flyer for more details!

If you are interested in volunteering, please message them on Facebook or email darr.sands@wifn.org

Sponsored by WIFN Social Services, WIFN Health Centre, Wiijnokiiying Ontario Works.

All are welcome!
June 20 2026: Indigenous History in Canada Presentation

Indigenous History in Canada
Saturday, June 20, 1:30 - 3:30 PM
Spirit and Life Centre 184 Wellington Street West, Chatham.
Registration required online or call 519-352-8530.
Free will offering accepted.
Presentation by Tesa Fiddler, Kitchinuhmaykoosib Inninuwug & Onigaming First Nation and Sharon Giroux, M'Chigeeng First Nation.
Tesa and Sharon, educators and former presenters at the Unted Nations, will provide a brief historical overview of Indigenous people in Canada, highlighting key events and their ongoing impact on Indigenous communities. They will also explore the efforts of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers' Association (OECTA) in fostering inclusive, safe, and accepting educational environmentsContinue reading

Indigenous History in Canada
Saturday, June 20, 1:30 - 3:30 PM
Spirit and Life Centre 184 Wellington Street West, Chatham.
Registration required online or call 519-352-8530.
Free will offering accepted.
Presentation by Tesa Fiddler, Kitchinuhmaykoosib Inninuwug & Onigaming First Nation and Sharon Giroux, M'Chigeeng First Nation.
Tesa and Sharon, educators and former presenters at the Unted Nations, will provide a brief historical overview of Indigenous people in Canada, highlighting key events and their ongoing impact on Indigenous communities. They will also explore the efforts of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers' Association (OECTA) in fostering inclusive, safe, and accepting educational environments for both staff and students.
Participants will gain insights into the association's initiatives, resources, and strategies aimed at promoting reconciliation and meaningful support for Indigenous perspectives within the education system.
Hosted by the Chatham Catholic Family of Parishes and the St. Clair Catholic District School Board.
June 27 to July 26 2026: Taste of Chatham-Kent
Taste of Chatham-Kent (TOCK) is a multi-week and multi-event celebration of cultural diversity in Chatham-Kent happening June 27 to July 26, 2026.
TOCK brings together ethno‑cultural associations, First Nations, Métis, Inuit or other Indigenous organizations, cultural restaurants, businesses, and community groups to highlight their culture and heritage through events, programming, recreation, food, and storytelling initiatives.
Proudly founded and organized by the Taste of Chatham Kent Committee in partnership with the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.
Get Involved

Organize a cultural event or activity within Chatham-Kent or a nearby First Nation (supportive grant funding may be available)

Sponsor Taste of Chatham-Kent

Participate inContinue reading
Taste of Chatham-Kent (TOCK) is a multi-week and multi-event celebration of cultural diversity in Chatham-Kent happening June 27 to July 26, 2026.
TOCK brings together ethno‑cultural associations, First Nations, Métis, Inuit or other Indigenous organizations, cultural restaurants, businesses, and community groups to highlight their culture and heritage through events, programming, recreation, food, and storytelling initiatives.
Proudly founded and organized by the Taste of Chatham Kent Committee in partnership with the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.
Get Involved

Organize a cultural event or activity within Chatham-Kent or a nearby First Nation (supportive grant funding may be available)

Sponsor Taste of Chatham-Kent

Participate in an event

Learn more at the Taste of Chatham-Kent website.
August 1: Emancipation Day & Month

August 1^st is Emancipation Day in Canada, and the month of August is Emancipation month in Ontario.

Emancipation Day commemorates the Abolition of Slavery Act, which became law on August 1, 1834, marking the end of the institution of slavery within British colonies, including Canada.

While people often associate chattel slavery with the United States, Canada also has a history of enslavement of People of African descent and Indigenous Peoples. In fact, the first known Black person in Chatham-Kent was enslaved.

A 1793 Act to Limit Slavery in Upper Canada had already prohibited bringing enslaved people intoContinue reading

August 1^st is Emancipation Day in Canada, and the month of August is Emancipation month in Ontario.

Emancipation Day commemorates the Abolition of Slavery Act, which became law on August 1, 1834, marking the end of the institution of slavery within British colonies, including Canada.

While people often associate chattel slavery with the United States, Canada also has a history of enslavement of People of African descent and Indigenous Peoples. In fact, the first known Black person in Chatham-Kent was enslaved.

A 1793 Act to Limit Slavery in Upper Canada had already prohibited bringing enslaved people into Upper Canada, however, the 1834 Act went further to lay the pathway to free more than 800 000 people of African descent throughout the British Empire. For most enslaved people, the Abolition of Slavery Act only resulted in partial liberation, freeing children under the age of six while still requiring others to continue serving their former enslavers for four to six years as apprentices. The Act confirmed Canada as a free territory for enslaved African Americans, though, which led to thousands of people of African-descent arriving in Canada from the United States between 1834 and the early 1860s, including in what is now known as Chatham-Kent.
Although the institution of slavery was ended, Black communities continued to experience racism and discrimination in Canada. And no formal apologies or compensation has ever been offered to the people or descendants of those enslaved.

Emancipation Day has been celebrated on or near August 1^st each year by Black communities and supporters since 1834. The day was formally recognized in 2008 by Ontario and by Canada in 2021. Ontario also recognized August as Emancipation Month in 2021. Today, Emancipation Day and Month are a time to celebrate the end of slavery, but also to raise awareness about and commit to advancing racial equity.

Activists in Chatham-Kent and Chatham-Kent's Council vocally supported Member of Parliament Majid Jowhari's motion to designate August 1 as Emancipation Day in Canada, including through a formal motion of support sent to local Member of Parliament and all House of Commons representatives.

Local Emancipation Day Events:

Stay tuned to the Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History website for 2026 Emancipation Day events!

Learn more:
Buxton National Historic Site & Museum
Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum
Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History
Chatham-Kent Tourism – Black History
Canadian Museum of Human Rights
Government of Canada
Aug 7 - 9 2026: Caldwell First Nation 2nd Annual Competition Pow Wow

August 7 - 9, 2026
Caldwell First Nation Reserve, Mersea Road 1, Leamington
Mersea Road 1 (beside Caldwell Gas & Variety)
Everyone is welcome.
$10 admission fee. Seniors $5. Children 4-8 free.
Grand entries:
Friday August 7, 6:00 PM
Saturday August 8, 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM
Sunday August 10, 12:00 PM
No pets. Drug & alcohol free event. Bring a lawn chair. Security on-site 24 hours.

Learn more about Pow Wows and etiquette:
A primer on Indigenous Pow Wows from Indigenous Corporate Training
Indigenous Pow Wow Protocols from Indigenous Corporate Training
Indigenous Pow Wow Dances from Indigenous Corporate Continue reading

August 7 - 9, 2026
Caldwell First Nation Reserve, Mersea Road 1, Leamington
Mersea Road 1 (beside Caldwell Gas & Variety)
Everyone is welcome.
$10 admission fee. Seniors $5. Children 4-8 free.
Grand entries:
Friday August 7, 6:00 PM
Saturday August 8, 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM
Sunday August 10, 12:00 PM
No pets. Drug & alcohol free event. Bring a lawn chair. Security on-site 24 hours.

Learn more about Pow Wows and etiquette:
A primer on Indigenous Pow Wows from Indigenous Corporate Training
Indigenous Pow Wow Protocols from Indigenous Corporate Training
Indigenous Pow Wow Dances from Indigenous Corporate Training

Tips for Attending:
Listen to the Master of Ceremonies/Emcee – they’ll explain what’s happening to help visitors.
Ask permission before taking pictures.
Don’t touch people’s regalia without permission. They are not costumes and hold special meaning to dancers.
Support the vendors. Some vendors may have interact or etransfer options, but please make sure you have cash on hand as well.
Outdoor settings are sometimes uneven so watch your footing.
Sometimes bleachers are available for people, but it never hurts to bring a chair with you.
Seats closest to the dancing circle are reserved for singers, dancers, and drummers.
Respect that some sections set aside for those with mobility issues to sit with mobile chairs or walkers.
Leave pets at home as animals are not necessary at cultural gatherings and ceremonial functions.
Don’t bring alcohol or drugs.
Have fun!
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.
Re-Launch of Our Door is Open to Everyone Window Sign Campaign

CK Pride and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent Relaunch “Our Door Is Open to Everyone” Window Sign Campaign
CK Pride, in partnership with the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, is proud to announce the relaunch of the Our Door is Open to Everyone campaign, a visible community initiative that affirms inclusion, safety, and belonging for 2SLGBTQIA+ residents and visitors across Chatham-Kent.
Originally launched with cardboard signage, the campaign has been refreshed in 2026 with durable window clings and stickers that reflect CK Pride’s updated name and new logo, making it easier for businesses, organizations, and public spaces to visibly demonstrate their commitment toContinue reading

CK Pride and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent Relaunch “Our Door Is Open to Everyone” Window Sign Campaign
CK Pride, in partnership with the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, is proud to announce the relaunch of the Our Door is Open to Everyone campaign, a visible community initiative that affirms inclusion, safety, and belonging for 2SLGBTQIA+ residents and visitors across Chatham-Kent.
Originally launched with cardboard signage, the campaign has been refreshed in 2026 with durable window clings and stickers that reflect CK Pride’s updated name and new logo, making it easier for businesses, organizations, and public spaces to visibly demonstrate their commitment to welcoming and affirming environments.
The window clings were designed by Joel Emery and produced locally by CutiePatootieStudios, supporting community-based creatives while ensuring high-quality, long-lasting materials suitable for storefronts, offices, and public-facing spaces. This project is supported by Council Ward Funding, through a partnership between the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and Hydro One.
The Our Door Is Open to Everyone window clings signal that a space is one where people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions are respected and supported. Participating locations are encouraged to reflect this commitment not only through signage, but through everyday practices rooted in dignity, equity, and inclusion.
“Visibility matters,” say the Board of Directors at CK Pride. “In a community as diverse and geographically large as Chatham-Kent, these window clings offer a simple but meaningful way to signal safety, allyship, and care. For many people, especially youth, newcomers, and those navigating rural isolation, seeing that sign can make the difference between entering a space or walking away.”
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent continues to support the campaign as part of its broader commitments to equity, diversity, inclusion, and community safety. The relaunch aligns with ongoing municipal efforts to foster welcoming public spaces and strengthen trust across communities.
Window clings and stickers will be available to local businesses, community organizations, and municipal spaces. Participation in the campaign is voluntary, and CK Pride encourages participants to engage with the campaign thoughtfully and authentically.
Organizations interested in displaying an Our Door Is Open to Everyone window cling can contact info@ckpride.com, or pick one up from Bill's Place, Community Space, 48 Centre St. during drop-in hours. They will also be distributed at Municipal Centers and CK Public Library branches.