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April is Sikh Heritage Month!

April is Sikh Heritage Month!
This month, we celebrate Sikh culture and heritage and honour the important contributions of Sikh community members to our social, economic, political and cultural lives.
Sikhism is one of the world’s youngest religions but is the fifth largest religion in the world. The first wave of settlers who were Sikh arrived in Canada in the early 1900s. Today, Canada has the second largest diaspora of people who are Sikh in the World!
Sikh Heritage Month was first established in Ontario in 2013 and then in Canada in 2019. April was chosen because it is theContinue reading
April is Sikh Heritage Month!
This month, we celebrate Sikh culture and heritage and honour the important contributions of Sikh community members to our social, economic, political and cultural lives.
Sikhism is one of the world’s youngest religions but is the fifth largest religion in the world. The first wave of settlers who were Sikh arrived in Canada in the early 1900s. Today, Canada has the second largest diaspora of people who are Sikh in the World!
Sikh Heritage Month was first established in Ontario in 2013 and then in Canada in 2019. April was chosen because it is the time that Sikh people observe Vaisakhi, which commemorates the creation of the Khalsa and Sikh articles of faith. Vaisakhi (sometimes spelt Baisakhi) may also be called Khalsa Sanja Diwas.
Happy Vaisakhi to community members honouring this important time in Chatham-Kent!

Learn More:
Find information about local ethno-cultural communities on the Living CK website.
Learn about the history of Sikhs in Canada from:
Sikh Heritage Museum of Canada
Sikh Research Institute
Early Concepts (resources for educators)
Sikh National Archives of Canada
Learn about Sikhism and other religions in the workplace from Encounter World Religions.
Sikhism in Canada from Wikipedia
Peel Art Gallery Museum + Archives (PAMA)

Thank you to members of the Sikh Cultural Society Chatham-Kent for reviewing the contents of this post.
Canada Day: Reflecting on Our Past, Honouring Our Present, Shaping Our Future
Each year on July 1, people across Canada gather to celebrate the people, places, and stories that make this country home. Canada Day offers us an opportunity to recognize the beauty of our communities, the diversity of our cultures, and the many contributions that have shaped who we are today.
Here in Chatham-Kent, we are proud of our vibrant and diverse community. We celebrate the resilience, creativity, and kindness of residents who work every day to build a welcoming and inclusive place for all. From the strength of our local relationships to the care we show our neighbours, there isContinue reading
Each year on July 1, people across Canada gather to celebrate the people, places, and stories that make this country home. Canada Day offers us an opportunity to recognize the beauty of our communities, the diversity of our cultures, and the many contributions that have shaped who we are today.
Here in Chatham-Kent, we are proud of our vibrant and diverse community. We celebrate the resilience, creativity, and kindness of residents who work every day to build a welcoming and inclusive place for all. From the strength of our local relationships to the care we show our neighbours, there is much to honour and appreciate.
At the same time, Canada Day is also a moment for reflection.
Canada’s history includes a legacy of colonialism that has caused deep and lasting harm to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. Residential schools, the displacement of Indigenous communities from their lands, and ongoing inequities are painful realities that continue to affect individuals, families, and communities today. Recognizing these truths is an essential part of building a more just and equitable future.
As we mark Canada Day, we invite everyone in Chatham-Kent to hold both celebration and reflection together. This can mean:
Taking time to learn about the histories and contributions of Indigenous Peoples in this region and across the country
Learning about Treaties – agreements made between First Nations and the Crown on behalf of people settling in what is now known as Canada
Listening to and uplifting Indigenous voices and perspectives
Reflecting on what reconciliation means in our daily lives
Considering the role each of us can play in advancing equity, inclusion, and justice
This work is ongoing. It happens in small, everyday choices as well as in collective efforts across our community.
This Canada Day, let us come together with intention: to celebrate what is good, to acknowledge what must change, and to commit ourselves to take meaningful action to build a community—and a country—where everyone can thrive.
Municipality of Chatham-Kent 2023-2027 HR Strategies

We are pleased to share with you the 2023-2027 Human Resources (HR) Strategies, which include the People and Culture Strategy, Mental Health and Wellbeing (MHW) Strategy, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) Strategy!
We appreciate the collaboration and input many employees and partners have provided tour team since 2021 to develop these Strategies.
Many action items have already been started and many more are on the horizon to achieve our objectives by 2027.
We look forward to sharing the Municipality’s progress and celebrating accomplishments along this path of continuous improvement!

We are pleased to share with you the 2023-2027 Human Resources (HR) Strategies, which include the People and Culture Strategy, Mental Health and Wellbeing (MHW) Strategy, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) Strategy!
We appreciate the collaboration and input many employees and partners have provided tour team since 2021 to develop these Strategies.
Many action items have already been started and many more are on the horizon to achieve our objectives by 2027.
We look forward to sharing the Municipality’s progress and celebrating accomplishments along this path of continuous improvement!
May 16-17 2026: Walpole Island First Nation Spring Pow Wow

On May 16th and 17th, 2026 Walpole Island First Nation will host their 32nd annual Spring Pow Wow in Bkejwanong Territory.
Walpole Island Sports Complex Fairgrounds 770 Tecumseh Road. Inside arena if inclement weather forecasted.
Free to attend. All are welcome.
Grand entries Saturday at 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM and Sunday at 12:00 PM.
Park at mall, arena, side of road.
Limited bleachers on-site. Bring camping chairs, Interac or e-transfer for vendors. ATM also on-site.
Learn more about the Pow Wow on their Facebook Page.

Learn more about Pow Wows and etiquette:
A primer on Indigenous Pow WowsContinue reading
On May 16th and 17th, 2026 Walpole Island First Nation will host their 32nd annual Spring Pow Wow in Bkejwanong Territory.
Walpole Island Sports Complex Fairgrounds 770 Tecumseh Road. Inside arena if inclement weather forecasted.
Free to attend. All are welcome.
Grand entries Saturday at 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM and Sunday at 12:00 PM.
Park at mall, arena, side of road.
Limited bleachers on-site. Bring camping chairs, Interac or e-transfer for vendors. ATM also on-site.
Learn more about the Pow Wow on their Facebook Page.

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 – they’ll explain what’s happening to help visitors.
Ask permission before taking pictures.
Want to get in on the dancing? Listen for the Intertribal dances - these are for all people present to partake in the dance.
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.
Sometimes specials can include placing a blanket on the ground for generous donations by visitors.
Ambulance and police are present.
Don’t bring alcohol or drugs.
Have fun!
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!
Become a Dementia Friendly Business

The Chatham Alzheimer Society is rolling out a new initiative throughout Chatham-Kent. The program is called “dementia friendly communities” and the goal of the program is to give Chatham Kent businesses the skills and knowledge to better serve our dementia community. After a 1-hour education session with our education manager, your business can become certified as a dementia friendly supporter. With this designation you will receive a special decal for your display and advertising on the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent’s website and socials. You can learn more about the program here: Dementia Friendly Communities Ontario | Alzheimer Society of Ontario
Continue reading

The Chatham Alzheimer Society is rolling out a new initiative throughout Chatham-Kent. The program is called “dementia friendly communities” and the goal of the program is to give Chatham Kent businesses the skills and knowledge to better serve our dementia community. After a 1-hour education session with our education manager, your business can become certified as a dementia friendly supporter. With this designation you will receive a special decal for your display and advertising on the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent’s website and socials. You can learn more about the program here: Dementia Friendly Communities Ontario | Alzheimer Society of Ontario

To receive the designation, 75% of frontline staff must complete either the in person education course (1 hour) or an online e-module course (1 hour) (if you cannot get all employees to attend the in-person course).

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent directly at 519-352-1043 ext. 221 or email info@justasck.ca
Learn about Ramadan

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

Ramadan is here!
Observed during the 9^th month of the Islamic lunar calendar and dependent on sightings of the Moon, Ramadan is expected to be honoured this year from February 17^th – March 19^th.
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.
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 haveContinue reading
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!
Respectful Cinco de Mayo Celebrations

Learning about and appreciating cultures different from our own helps us promote understanding and respect for each other. As Cinco de Mayo approaches, we recognize it as an important day in Mexican history. Any activities or events connected to this day should focus on respect and appreciation.
To learn moreContinue reading
Learning about and appreciating cultures different from our own helps us promote understanding and respect for each other. As Cinco de Mayo approaches, we recognize it as an important day in Mexican history. Any activities or events connected to this day should focus on respect and appreciation.
To learn more about the meaning of Cinco de Mayo and how to honour it respectfully, please visit the full document on our Let’s Talk page.
Have feedback or ideas to share? We’d love to hear from you. Contact us at DEIJ@chatham-kent.ca.
May 5 2026: Events in Honour of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People
May 5th is National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People (MMIWG2S), also known as Red Dress Day. In honour of this day, several events will be held in Chatham-Kent. Scroll down to learn about the day and events.
All events listed are open to everyone.
Please contact us DEIJ@chatham-kent.ca if you would like to add other events.
Note: it is appropriate to wear red pins, ties, coats, shirts, to show support on May 5th and around the year. Read more about the purpose of the red dress below.

About The National Day
Continue reading
May 5th is National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People (MMIWG2S), also known as Red Dress Day. In honour of this day, several events will be held in Chatham-Kent. Scroll down to learn about the day and events.
All events listed are open to everyone.
Please contact us DEIJ@chatham-kent.ca if you would like to add other events.
Note: it is appropriate to wear red pins, ties, coats, shirts, to show support on May 5th and around the year. Read more about the purpose of the red dress below.

About The National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People
Also called Red Dress Day, the day honours and brings awareness to the disproportionate violence that Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people face in Canada.
The red dress was inspired by Métis artist Jaime Black’s REDress Project, in which she hung empty, red dresses to represent the missing and murdered women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.
The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people found that, in Canada:

Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two Spirit people are 12x more likely to go missing or be murdered than all other women, and 16x more likely than Caucasian women.

In the last 30 years, more than 4000 Indigenous Women, Girls and Two Spirit people have gone missing or been murdered. That’s about 133 a year or 3 a week.

Because of persistent forms of oppression (racism, colonialism, homophobia, transphobia, sexism), complaints about missing Indigenous Women, Girls, and Women, are less likely to be taken seriously or followed up.

The National Inquiry led to 231 Calls for Justice directed at governments, institutions, social service providers, industries, and all Canadians.

Local Events

Tuesday, May 5, 4:00 - 6:30 PM
Deshkan Ziibi, 495 King Street West, Chatham
Co-sponsored by: Ska:Na Family Learning Centre; The Bleak House; 7 Generations Indigenous Cultural Friendship Centre; Maawnjidimi Indigenous Network Social Planning and Action Network Member Table; and Women's Equity Business.
Everyone is welcome.
More information: May 5 2026: MMIWG Vigil & GINDAASDAA Circle | Chatham-Kent's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Justice Strategy | Let's Talk Chatham-Kent

Supports
This day may be triggering for some people. Help is available.
National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people toll-free support phone line (24/7) 1-844-413-6649
Hope for Wellness Help Line (24/7) 1-855-242-3310
Manitoba MMIWG2S Self-Help Resources
Chatham-Kent Victim's Services

Learn More
Read the final report and Calls for Justice from the MMIWG2S+ National Inquiry on the National Inquiry website
Visit the National Family and Survivors Circle website
Visit the Amnesty International No More Stolen Sisters website
Find book, video and podcast recommendations on Simon Fraser University’s website
Listen to the local Ode'mini Giizis podcast on Spotify or YouTube