August 1 marks Emancipation Day in Canada, a day dedicated to commemorating the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1834. It's a time to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of Black communities and to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and contributions of Black Canadians. At Brampton Library, we are committed to honoring this important day, with providing resources that support and uplift Black Canadians.

Resources for Black Communities at Brampton Library

Your library offers a wide range of resources designed to educate, inspire, and support Black communities. From literature and historical texts to community programs and workshops, we strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone can learn and grow. Here are some key resources available on our website:

  • Curated Book Lists: Explore our selection of books by Black authors, including fiction, non-fiction, and children's literature that highlight Black history, culture, and experiences. Browse our catalogue for books here and ebooks here.

  • Community Programs: Participate in our community programs designed to connect and empower Black individuals and families. These programs offer culturally relevant support, promote mental health and well-being, and provide opportunities for education and personal growth:

  • The Gathering: This program is designed for Black youth aged 14 and older. It provides a supportive environment for discussions on societal issues, 2SLGBTQ+ education, and empowerment activities. The sessions include workshops, guest speakers, guided conversations, and recreational activities, aiming to foster resilience and community involvement among Black youth. 
  • Black Family Support Program: Offered in partnership with Malton Neighbourhood Services, this program provides culturally informed services for Black families in the Region of Peel. It includes drop-in play-based learning, parent support, individual and family counseling, youth programs, and systems navigation. Its aim is to support the holistic well-being of Black families, promoting resilience and community connections.

Helplines and Support Services for Black Canadians

In addition to our library resources, there are several helplines and support services available to Black Canadians. These organizations offer assistance, counseling, and advocacy to help navigate various challenges:

  1. Black Youth Helpline: A national helpline offering support for Black youth and their families. Contact them at 1-833-294-8650 or visit blackyouth.ca for more information.
  2. Black Health Alliance: Provides resources and support for Black Canadians dealing with health and wellness issues. Visit blackhealthalliance.ca for services and information.
  3. The Crisis Text Line: Text "HOME" to 686868 for free, confidential support available 24/7.
  4. Kids Help Phone: Offers counseling and support for youth across Canada. Call 1-800-668-6868 or text "CONNECT" to 686868.

My Experience as a Black Woman in Canada

As a Black woman in Canada, the journey of navigating through the multifaceted challenges of a marginalized community has profoundly shaped both my personal and professional paths. From a young age, I was acutely aware of the systemic barriers and pervasive cultural biases that seemed to define the boundaries of my existence. These experiences were not just obstacles but also catalysts that ignited my passion for advocacy and community engagement. They instilled in me a resolute determination to drive change, which ultimately led me to my current role of Marketing and Communications Assistant at Brampton Library.

In my professional capacity, I am dedicated to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. Our team is committed to ensuring that our programming and resources authentically reflect the rich diversity of Brampton. I firmly believe in the transformative power of representation and the critical importance of creating inclusive spaces where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued. This belief underpins every aspect of my work and guides my efforts to foster an environment of equality and acceptance.

Emancipation Day holds profound significance for me and serves as a poignant reminder of our shared history and the relentless pursuit of true equality and justice. It underscores the necessity for ongoing efforts to dismantle systemic inequities and to celebrate the resilience and contributions of Black communities.

By embracing our collective responsibility, we can continue to advance towards a future where equity and justice are not just aspirational ideals but lived realities for all. In my role, I strive to be a catalyst for this change, working collaboratively with the team, my colleagues, and community members to build a more inclusive and equitable society. It is through these efforts that we can honour the legacy of those who have come before us and pave the way for future generations.

Conclusion

Emancipation Day is not just a day of remembrance; it's a call to action. It's a reminder of the resilience and strength of Black communities and a celebration of our enduring legacy. At Brampton Library, we are dedicated to providing resources and support that empower Black communities. As we commemorate this significant day, let's continue to educate ourselves, uplift each other, and work towards a future where everyone can thrive.

Summer is here, and it's time for Brampton Library’s Adult Summer Reading Club participants to celebrate in style! We are excited to invite you to an exclusive after-hours Summer Soirée at our beautiful Chinguacousy Branch Library. This special evening is packed with engaging activities, creative stations, and delectable refreshments. Here are the top five things you won't want to miss:

  1. Kahoot Literature Trivia:
    Put your literary knowledge to the test with our Kahoot Literature Trivia! Compete against fellow book lovers in a friendly and fun quiz that covers a wide range of literary topics. Winners will take home some awesome library swag, proving that they are the ultimate literary champions. 
  2. Handwriting Analysis with Elaine Charal: Experience "The Power of the Pen," led by Elaine Charal, this talk will have you laughing while learning to communicate more effectively by understanding what your handwriting strokes mean. Participants will receive a one-page Handwriting Profile - a personal take-home gift that reveals the ‘secrets’ contained within their handwriting.
  1. Collaging Art Station featuring Sabbie Narwal, in collaboration with the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO):
    Unleash your artistic potential at the Collaging Art Station, hosted by the talented Brampton-based illustrator, Sabbie Narwal. Dive into our collection of magazines to craft a one-of-a-kind collage. Simply bring your imagination and get ready to create something unique for yourself or someone special!
  2. Live DJ Rhea:
    Dance the night away with the musical selections of our live DJ Rhea!Enjoy a mix of summer hits, timeless classics, and dance tunes that will keep you moving and grooving.
  3. Door Prize Draws:
    Don't miss your chance to win one of our fabulous door prizes! We have gift cards from Bramalea City Centre, Tandoori Flame, and the Downtown Brampton BIA all up for grabs. Make sure to enter the draw for your chance to win one of these fantastic prizes.

RSVP Today!

This exclusive event is just for our Adult Summer Reading Club members, so don’t miss out on this special opportunity. Bring your love for books, and a spirit of fun, and join us for an evening of celebration and connection. Encourage your friends to join you for a great time in the library after hours!

Date: Friday, July 5, 2024

Time: 7 - 9:30 p.m.

Location: Chinguacousy Branch, Chinguacousy Park Ski Chalet at 9050 Bramalea Rd

We can’t wait to celebrate with you at Brampton Library for an unforgettable Summer Soiree. Let’s make this summer one for the books! This event is open to all Adult Summer Reading Club members. If you need any assistance with joining, we can help you on site! Come to the event, and we’ll guide you through the process.

The seventh annual Local Authors Showcase event will kick off the summer, and it will be bigger than ever. 

This year's showcase proudly presents the works of over 70 authors and nearly 100 titles, marking our largest number of submissions to date. What began in 2017 as an initiative to spotlight new and emerging writers in Peel Region has blossomed into a cherished collection of local stories and experiences, culminating in a flagship event at the Brampton Farmers' Market.

Whatever your literary interests, the Local Authors Showcase offers something for everyone, catering to readers of all ages and interests. From captivating fiction and insightful non-fiction, to engaging memoirs and expressive poetry, the showcase features a diverse range of genres. 

Join us on June 22nd at the Brampton Farmers' Market, on Main Street South and in Ken Whillans Square, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the launch of the 2024-25 Local Authors Showcase. You’ll have the opportunity to check out enthralling stories and connect with an outstanding lineup of talented local authors.

Following the event, you can explore the 2024-25  Local Authors Showcase collection of print materials at our Gore Meadows branch, conveniently access titles online via our cloudLibrary app, or reserve books through our catalogue for pickup at your favourite Library branch.

We extend our thanks to all the authors participating in this year's showcase, as well as to our dedicated library teams whose efforts make this event possible year after year.

Hope to see you at the Brampton Farmers’ Market on June 22nd!

For more details about the 2024-25 authors, please click here.

Celebrating Father's Day

Father’s Day is a special occasion dedicated to honoring the fathers, grandfathers, and father figures who enrich our lives with their guidance, love, and support. This day provides an opportunity to celebrate the diverse family structures that contribute to the vibrancy of our community and to recognize the unique and invaluable roles that fathers play in our lives.

At Brampton Library, we are committed to supporting and celebrating caregivers in their roles within their families and our broader community. Our Library offers a wide array of resources and programs designed to enrich the lives of fathers and their families. From educational workshops to engaging storytimes, and community events, we strive to provide fathers with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.

Book Recommendations to Honour Fathers 

Here are some powerful book recommendations featuring inspiring father figures and touching father-child relationships, perfect for celebrating Father’s Day:

  1. ”The Road" by Cormac McCarthy : A poignant tale of a father and son’s journey through a post-apocalyptic world, showcasing the strength of paternal love and resilience.
  2.  "Between the World and Me" by Ta-Nehisi Coates: A powerful letter from a father to his son, discussing race, identity, and the realities of growing up Black in America. 
  3. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee: One of literature’s most beloved father figures, Atticus Finch, this classic novel explores themes of justice, morality, and the impact of a father’s guidance. 
  4. "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini: A story of redemption and the complex relationship between fathers and sons set against the backdrop of a changing Afghanistan.
  5. "Pops: Fatherhood in Pieces" by Michael Chabon: A collection of personal essays reflecting on the joys and challenges of being a father.

Whether it's a touching narrative about fatherhood, a heartwarming tale of a father's sacrifice, or a story that highlights the unique bond between fathers and their children, we'd love to hear your recommendations too! Connect with us on our social platforms, and let’s discuss these influential stories together!

Related Brampton Library programs:

At Brampton Library, we value the significance of supporting all family members, including fathers. We acknowledge the diversity of family structures and aim to provide resources and programs that cater to this variety. Here are some of the programs we offer that are particularly beneficial for men:

Family Storytime: These special storytime sessions are offered at many of our branches and are designed for children and their families to enjoy books together, fostering a love of reading and strengthening bonds.

Adult Summer Reading Club (ASRC): This program encourages adults (19+) to engage in reading festivities throughout the summer. They’ll have the opportunity to win prizes, accomplish their reading goals, meet fellow book lovers and attend the Summer Soiree, an exclusive after hours event.

Black Family Support Program: This is a multifaceted program offered to Black Families in partnership with the Malton Neighbourhood Services. It provides children (0-12 years) the opportunity to play, connect and learn in a safe environment, while their parents are offered resources, culturally-sensitive counseling and opportunities to engage in discussions with other families to enhance their livelihoods. 

Nutrition for Healthy Aging with Queen Square: This program focuses on encouraging healthy eating habits for seniors. Dietitians promote fun and engaging ways to build and maintain nutritious diets, and overall gain a healthier relationship with food. 

This Father’s Day, Sunday, June 16, 2024

As we celebrate this upcoming Father’s Day, it’s important to acknowledge and support those who are experiencing the loss of a loved one or dealing with mental health challenges. Each family structure is unique, and these occasions can bring forth different emotions for everyone. 

For those who lost a father figure or individuals struggling with mental health issues, here are some helpful resources in Canada:

Kids Help Phone: Available 24/7 for youth and young adults, offering free, confidential support visit Kids Help Phone or call 1-800-668-6868.

Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA): Provides information on mental health and local resources. Visit CMHA or contact your local branch. 

Crisis Services Canada: For anyone in crisis, available 24/7. Visit Crisis Services Canada or call 1-833-456-4566.

Remember seeking help is a sign of strength. Let’s support each other and recognize the diverse experiences within our families. Happy Father’s Day!

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