Message from the Executive Director

[image: Owen Sound Black History Cairn, Harrison Park]

Dear Friends,

Since 1979, Black History Month in Ontario has been deeply rooted in local activism and is importantly recognized during the month of February. Community Foundation Grey Bruce (CFGB) supports Black Canadians by funding local initiatives focused on preserving heritage, promoting inclusion, and removing systemic barriers for youth.

Owen Sound holds a significant place in Canadian history as the northernmost terminus of the Underground Railroad. During the mid-19th century, it served as a primary sanctuary for African Americans escaping slavery in the United States. Also, Owen Sound is host to what is believed to be the longest-running Emancipation event in North America. Held annually in August since 1862, the Emancipation Festival welcomes people from across North America to an open-air gathering in  Harrison Park commemorating the long-standing history of black families in this region and the rich network of friends and family members that originate from those refugees. Community Foundation Grey Bruce has been a proud support of this festival and has supported it with more than four grants over the past years. 

There are important ways that we support the unique black heritage of our region including the following examples:

Heritage Preservation: In 2025, the Foundation provided $5,000 in support to the Bruce County Museum to support a project call The Fabric of our Being that brings together sixty participants to create a quilt in honour of the International Decade for People of African Descent.

Social and Economic Integration: The Foundation has supported projects like Making Grey Bruce Home, run by United Way Bruce Grey in 2018, that facilitated the social and economic integration of young refugees and their families, many of whom are part of the Black community—through training, workshops, and peer support networks.

Equity in Youth Programming: Through the Free to Play initiative, currently accepting applications,  CFGB provides grants to local organizations to make outdoor play more accessible for children who face systemic barriers. The program specifically targets equity and belonging for marginalized youth.

Inclusion Initiatives: CFGB partners with groups like Welcoming Communities Grey Bruce to foster inclusion for "visible minorities" and newcomers, supporting efforts to make local workplaces more inclusive through capacity building and training.

Scholarships, Bursaries, and Awards: The Foundation manages almost 50 scholarships and bursaries intended to help local students, including those from diverse backgrounds, pursue post-secondary education and trades.

Take time this month to reflect on the important contributions of Black families to our region. Your philanthropy can ensure Grey Bruce is a healthy, vibrant and diverse community.

Sincerely,

Stuart Reid