JUNETEENTH

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JUNETEENTH

Event?

Join Black Talent Initiative as we commemorate Juneteenth, a historic day of significance for Black communities worldwide. On June 19th, we invite you to an evening of reflection, education, and celebration to honour the resilience and achievements of the Black community.

Our Juneteenth event celebrates the rich culture and contributions of Black Americans while acknowledging the global impact of Black history. We will amplify voices advocating for racial justice and equity, highlighting the interconnected struggles and victories of Black communities in Canada and the United States through discussions, performances, and interactive experiences.

Embrace the spirit of solidarity and empowerment with us as we commemorate Juneteenth, reflecting on the past and envisioning a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

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Agenda

NETWORKING HOUR

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

KEYNOTE SPEAKER & PERFORMANCE

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Dr. Ruth C. White

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KEYNOTE: In "A Journey of Struggle and Triumph - Bridging the Black Experience Across Borders," Dr. White will illuminate the profound history and significance of Juneteenth, exploring its origins and its pivotal role in marking the end of slavery in the USA. Dr. White will share compelling narratives that draw parallels between the experiences of Black communities in Canada and the United States, highlighting their shared fight for freedom and equality. She will emphasize Canada's historical role as a sanctuary for enslaved individuals from the USA, illustrating the shared victories in the quest for liberation. Celebrating the rich cultural contributions and global influence of Black Americans, Dr. White will address the interconnected struggles against systemic racism. She will explore the far-reaching impact of Black history and culture, demonstrating how resilience and creativity have shaped the world. In a powerful call to action, Dr. White will discuss how we can create a more inclusive and equitable future for Black people globally. She will share strategies for fostering solidarity and empowerment, encouraging us to build a world where everyone can thrive. Don’t miss this enlightening session that honors Juneteenth and reinforces our commitment to justice and equality. Dr. Ruth C. White's keynote will leave you inspired to embrace solidarity, celebrate cultural contributions, and work towards a more equitable future.

Keynote: A Journey of Struggle and Triumph - Bridging the Black Experience Across Borders

Dr. Ruth C. White, Writer, Speaker, and Consultant & EDI Project Advisor, Rotman School of Management

Deonna Murray

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KEYNOTE:

In "Called To Be," Poets and Spoken Word Artists Donna and Daria will explore themes of inspiration, empowerment, and individuality, emphasizing the importance of realizing the power that lies within each of us.Through their captivating performance, they will highlight the freedom found in challenging societal norms, standing out, and embracing one's unique gifts and talents. This piece is a celebration of self-discovery and the courage to be different, encouraging all to become changemakers and embrace their true potential.This moving and empowering performance will leave you inspired to embrace your individuality and make a positive impact in your own life and the lives of others.

Performance: Called To Be Beautiful

Deonna Murray, Poet, Spoken Word Artist & Daria Dobson, Poet, Spoken Word Artist

David Watkins

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KEYNOTE:

In this compelling keynote “Why Juneteenth is Important to Everyone”, Educator and Speaker David Watkins will explore the significance of Juneteenth beyond the United States, with a particular focus on its relevance to Canadians and Black Canadians.David will delve into the historical and cultural connections that make Juneteenth a vital celebration for everyone, highlighting its impact on fostering greater understanding and unity across borders. Don't miss this insightful session that will broaden your perspective on Juneteenth and its importance to our shared history and future.

Keynote: A Journey of Struggle and Triumph - Bridging the Black Experience Across Borders

David Watkins,
Educator & Speaker

Daria Dobson

Read the Biography

Performance: Called To Be Beautiful

Deonna Murray, Poet, Spoken Word Artist & Daria Dobson, Poet, Spoken Word Artist

NETWORKING HOUR & REFRESHMENTS

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Dr. Ruth C. White

Writer, Speaker, and Consultant & EDI Project Advisor, Rotman School of Management

Ruth C. White, PhD MPH MSW RSW is a writer, speaker and consultant in the areas of mental wellbeing, and equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging. She currently works as EDI Project Advisor at the Rotman School of Management, is a therapist in private practice, and has written for Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, Tracy Anderson Magazine, Conde Nast Traveler, and more. She has also authored several books including, The Stress Management Workbook. Dr. White gained tenure at Seattle University, then taught at the University of Southern California for 7 years, and has also taught at UC – Berkeley, San Francisco State, Simmons & Fordham. As a mental health advocate, Ruth has appeared on TV, podcasts, & radio, and was a mental health contributor on KRON4-TV (San Francisco) for 3 years.

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Dr. White is passionate about wandering the planet and being outdoors – especially with her adult daughter, Maya.

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More info: https://wellmindplus.com

Dr. Ruth C. White

Writer, Speaker, and Consultant & EDI Project Advisor, Rotman School of Management

David Watkins

Educator & Speaker

David Watkins, born and raised in Windsor, Ontario, is a distinguished educator and speaker with a rich background in athletics and the arts. A three-sport athlete at Kennedy Collegiate Institute, Dave became a member of Canada’s Junior National Track and Field team and a four-year Letterman at Indiana State University. He later returned to Windsor to earn a B.A. in Visual Arts and an Education degree from the University of Windsor.

Dave began his teaching career with the Scarborough Board of Education, where he taught at the primary, junior, and intermediate levels. Concurrently, he became a published comic book artist, speaker, and digital entertainment producer. As a self-described ‘professional eclectic,’ Dave leveraged his diverse experiences to enrich his classroom and founded the African Youth Diaspora Conference at the University of Windsor. His innovative approach to education earned him Niagara University’s Teacher of the Year award and the Governor General’s Award for Excellence in Teaching History in 2007/2008.

After a 31-year career teaching History and Social Sciences at George Harvey Collegiate Institute, Dave retired, believing that studying history is key to self-determination. In his African-Canadian studies course, he empowered students to use history for greater self-awareness and self-identification.

Currently, Dave is writing a book on teaching students of the African Diaspora and creating a graphic novel based on his classroom experiences.

David Watkins

Educator & Speaker

Daria Dobson

Poet & Spoken Word Artist

Daria Dobson, a 19-year-old poet and spoken word artist, is entering her third year at Trent University, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Honours Forensic Psychology. A lifelong creative, Daria has explored various artistic disciplines, including dance, art, and drama. Over the past two years, she has focused on writing spoken word pieces, earning opportunities to perform and compete with her powerful and evocative work.

Daria Dobson

Poet & Spoken Word Artist

Deonna Murray

Poet & Spoken Word Artist

Deonna Murray is a 2nd-year Nutrition and Food student at Toronto Metropolitan University with a deep passion for art in all its forms. As a poet and spoken word artist, Deonna harnesses the power of words to captivate, transform, and uplift both herself and those around her. She takes pride in expressing herself through various artistic pathways, including dance, sketching, and playing the steel pan and saxophone in her free time.

Deonna Murray

Poet & Spoken Word Artist

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