Presentation in Gibson Woods focuses on inclusion, highlights contributions of Black community

by Kirk Starratt

Community members were excited to see our local elected officials reach out in a gesture of inclusion as Kings County council held the February committee of the whole (COTW) session in Gibson Woods Tuesday.

Kings County Warden Fred Whalen and district councillor Madonna Spinazola presented a framed copy of the recently approved declaration to join the Canadian Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism and Discrimination to Gibson Woods United Baptist Church Ladies’ Auxiliary representatives Geraldine Browning, a long-time community activist, and Phyllis Clements as part of the February meeting.

Spinazola came up with the idea of holding the February COTW session at the community hall in Gibson Woods in recognition of African Heritage Month. Browning, Clements and other community volunteers made the day possible by providing the facility and preparing a succulent meal and refreshments for their guests.

“It’s really nice to have you here,” Browning told councillors. “When Madonna (Spinazola) called me and asked what I thought, I was very excited. It’s nice to reach out. We’re all human.”

Spinazola said she hopes the visit will become an annual tradition that grows and the new incarnation of council to be elected later this year will agree to see that through.

Browning gave a short presentation to council about her own experiences as a member of the African Canadian community and read a piece about how disadvantaged our society would be today if not for the countless contributions made by those of African descent.

Reporter Kirk Starratt was on hand and files the following video package…