Mark your calendars: Durham Region to host virtual Anti-Black Racism town hall

Whitby, Ontario – Durham residents are invited to join the conversation on March 18 for Make the Connection: Intention, Impact and Transformation—the Region’s upcoming virtual Anti-Black Racism town hall.

Regional Chair and CEO John Henry and Durham Region’s Chief Administrative Officer Elaine Baxter-Trahair will join the town hall discussion with panelist and Durham Region’s Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Allison Hector-Alexander. The town hall will include moderated panel discussions on key themes with guest facilitator and panelists:

• Channon Oyeniran, Vice-President - Ontario Black History Society (facilitator) 
• Keishia Facey, RFWC Consulting
• Eleanor McIntosh, Durham Black Educators’ Network
• Nicole Perryman, Ifarada Institute, Kujenga Wellness Project  
• Dr. Joseph Smith, Operation Black Vote Canada, Generation Chosen

When: On Thursday, March 18, 2021 residents are invited to ask questions, listen in, and join the discussion on how the Region can confront systemic Anti-Black Racism and journey towards organizational change, equity and inclusion.

Where: The town hall will be held virtually from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Please visit durham.ca/MakeTheConnection to learn more; pre-registration for this event will be available shortly, visit our website for updates. You can also stream it online via the Region’s website.

Why: The town hall is a chance for open dialogue and action planning—allowing us to strive for an anti-racist and inclusive environment. Honest conversations will allow us to ensure that Regional programs and policies can help to dismantle systemic Anti-Black Racism and mobilize for change.

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For media inquiries, please contact Corporate Communications.