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Resource: Free Online English Classes for People who are Migrant Workers

Collège Boréal is providing free, online English classes with a live instructor for people who are Migrant Workers in Chatham-Kent. Reach out to Azuani Cano, 519-384-9393, acano@dol.ca or Jiohanka Perez, 519-397-1677, jiohanka.perez@collegeboreal.ca for more information and to register.

Don't forget to subscribe to the CK Local Immigration Partnership newsletter for more updates like these!
Collège Boréal is providing free, online English classes with a live instructor for people who are Migrant Workers in Chatham-Kent. Reach out to Azuani Cano, 519-384-9393, acano@dol.ca or Jiohanka Perez, 519-397-1677, jiohanka.perez@collegeboreal.ca for more information and to register.

Don't forget to subscribe to the CK Local Immigration Partnership newsletter for more updates like these!
Pride Season 2026
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 movementContinue reading
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!

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!
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:
Visit the Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History website for 2026 Emancipation Day events.
Events are free. Registration via EventBrite is encouraged but not required.
August 1, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., 29251 Freedom Road, Dresden
Enjoy a program of live entertainment, inspiring speakers, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities. Lunch available for purchase. Seating is available or bring your own chair.

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
International Overdose Awareness Day 2026
CK Public Health, Reach Out Chatham-Kent, and the Community Drug Strategy invite you to join in honouring International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) 2026. Each year in August partners come together to remember individuals whose lives were cut short by preventable drug toxicities, and to re-imagine how we can co-create a safe, caring, and inclusive future for our community. This year, our theme is Every Story. Every Path. Every Life Matters.

Here are some ways you can take action:

Attend the online learning session on Tuesday August 25^th 12-1pm to learn from renowned Nursing Leader, Parent Advocate, and MomsContinue reading
CK Public Health, Reach Out Chatham-Kent, and the Community Drug Strategy invite you to join in honouring International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) 2026. Each year in August partners come together to remember individuals whose lives were cut short by preventable drug toxicities, and to re-imagine how we can co-create a safe, caring, and inclusive future for our community. This year, our theme is Every Story. Every Path. Every Life Matters.

Here are some ways you can take action:

Attend the online learning session on Tuesday August 25^th 12-1pm to learn from renowned Nursing Leader, Parent Advocate, and Moms Stop The Harm Champion, Kathy Moreland. Kathy will share her lived experience journey as a mother who lost her 18-year-old son, Austin, to fentanyl toxicity. Email jordynne.linsday@ckoht.ca to register

Attend the in-person memorial gathering on Wednesday August 26^th anytime from 3-6pm at 39 Richmond St., Chatham.
OR drop-in on Thursday August 27^th 4-7pm at 233 Nelson St. in Wallaceburg.
Food and refreshments, music, art, and resources will be provided. All are welcome.

Use person-first, non-stigmatizing language to support individuals to seek help, provide equitable substance use health services, and encourage unbiased, effective policy. Research shows the words we use shape the care people who use substances receive and the opportunities available to them.

Carry a Naloxone kit and learn how to respond to an acute drug toxicity.

Learn more about substance use stigma and drug policy in Canada. Share what you learn with others in your circles.

Plan a Compassionate Approaches training for your team/organization to learn with and from People With Lived and Living Expertise.

Advocate for evidence-based solutions to the drug toxicity crisis such as early prevention, voluntary treatment, harm reduction, and supportive housing.

Wear purple on August 31^st to show your support.
Aug 14 - 21 2026: Canada's First Mega Mahayagya (Hindu Gathering)

CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

In a historic first, the Bhutanese Nepali Community of Chatham-Kent is hosting the grand Shrimand Bhagwat Saptaha Gyan Mahayagya.
When: August 14 - 21
Where: Everest Convention Centre, 250 National Road, Chatham
This festival serves as a vital bridge to cultural connection, offering the general public a rare immersive window into the rich tapestry of Vedic Sanatan Dharma traditions as global religious leaders converge in Chatham-Kent to share teachings on peace, mutual respect, and community unity.
Volunteers needed.
Grand opening and ceremony Friday, August 15 from 12:00 - 6:00 p.m. Experience a stunning, vibrant cultural procession.
Open to the publicContinue reading
In a historic first, the Bhutanese Nepali Community of Chatham-Kent is hosting the grand Shrimand Bhagwat Saptaha Gyan Mahayagya.
When: August 14 - 21
Where: Everest Convention Centre, 250 National Road, Chatham
This festival serves as a vital bridge to cultural connection, offering the general public a rare immersive window into the rich tapestry of Vedic Sanatan Dharma traditions as global religious leaders converge in Chatham-Kent to share teachings on peace, mutual respect, and community unity.
Volunteers needed.
Grand opening and ceremony Friday, August 15 from 12:00 - 6:00 p.m. Experience a stunning, vibrant cultural procession.
Open to the public daily from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
For more information contact: bnccommunity@gmail.com or 226.971.1461
No. 2 Construction Battalion

A picture of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, correspondence between Arthur Alexander and the Ministry of Militia & Defence, and the names of Black WWI Veterans from Chatham-Kent is currently on display in the Civic Center lobby.
Have you heard of the No. 2 Construction Battalion?

Thanks to the Buxton National Historic Site & Museum, Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum, and Ontario Heritage Trust, you can see a photo of the group and the names of local Black WWI Veterans in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent’s Civic Center Lobby.

On July 9^th, 2022, the Canadian Minister
Continue reading
A picture of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, correspondence between Arthur Alexander and the Ministry of Militia & Defence, and the names of Black WWI Veterans from Chatham-Kent is currently on display in the Civic Center lobby.
Have you heard of the No. 2 Construction Battalion?

Thanks to the Buxton National Historic Site & Museum, Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum, and Ontario Heritage Trust, you can see a photo of the group and the names of local Black WWI Veterans in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent’s Civic Center Lobby.

On July 9^th, 2022, the Canadian Minister of National Defence will offer a formal apology to relatives and descendants of members of the Battalion for the racism and discrimination endured by members before, during, and after their service to Canada. To watch the event live, visit: www.no2-cef.ca

The No. 2 Construction Battalion was formed in WWI and served from 1916-1920. It was the largest Black military unit in Canadian history. Although the headquarters for the Battalion were in Nova Scotia, there was a detachment that operated in Windsor and many local Black men were a part of the Battalion.

As they tried tArthur Alexander (pictured) wrote a letter to the Minister of Militia & Defence in 1914 to ask why Black men were not able to enlist in the Canadian militia.o volunteer for the Canadian militia, many Black men were turned away due to prevailing anti-Black racism. Despite the racism they experienced, the men continued to advocate for their participation in War efforts.

In 1916, the Department of Defence and Militia established a segregated, Black labour Battalion that supported construction and labour needs related to the War. In 1917, the Battalion sailed to England with 595 men, most of whom went on to build and maintain water systems, roads, and railroads and take part in logging for lumber used in trenches, observation posts, bridges, walkways, and even aircrafts.

Despite the anti-Black racism they experienced, the men of the No. 2 Construction Battalion made significant contributions to the War effort. But, these efforts went unrecognized for a long time.

In 1992, the Government of Canada recognized the formation of the No. 2 Construction Battalion as a national historic event and raised a granite monument commemorating the Battalion in Nova Scotia. Canada post issued a commemorative stamp depicting the Battalion in 2016. This weekend, the Ministry of Defence will issue a formal apology to relatives and descendants of members of the No. 2 Battalion for the racism and discrimination they endured.

Stop in at the Municipality of Chatham-Kent's Civic Center and see the picture of the No. 2 Battalion and the names of Black WWI Veterans from Chatham-Kent!

For more information and local Black History, visit the Buxton National Historic Site & Museum, the Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum, or Ontario Heritage Trust's Historic Site dedicated to Josiah Henson (new name coming soon!).