Black History Month
Radiant Roots - A Black Cultural Expo
Will be returning Saturday Feb 20th from 10 am - 3 pm
The Radiant Roots Cultural Expo celebrated its 3rd year, which brought community members together for a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and connection. Held at the Innisfil IdeaLab, the event showcased the rich diversity of Simcoe County through music, art, storytelling, and interactive experiences that highlighted the voices and talents of Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities.
Guests explored cultural displays, engaged with local vendors and creators, and enjoyed live performances and a fashion show that filled the space with energy and pride. The Expo also offered opportunities for meaningful conversations, learning, and community building, reflecting Making Change’s ongoing commitment to fostering inclusion and representation across the region.
Radiant Roots served as both a celebration and a learning space, inviting attendees to experience culture firsthand while deepening their understanding of the histories and lived experiences that shape our community.
Making Change extends heartfelt thanks to all performers, vendors, volunteers, partners, and attendees who helped make this year’s Expo such a powerful and memorable gathering.
Video created by Jayden Mattis. @mattisfilms
Canvas For Change will return
In February 2024 & 2025, we held Canvas For Change at the MacLaren Art Centre, displaying impactful artwork by local Black youth. The Canvas For Change program celebrated the artistic talents of Black youth who used art to amplify their voices. Ashante Blackwood, a visual artist who guided our youth in conceptualizing, communicating, and visually representing ideas meant to highlight their unique perspectives and stories, aimed to spark important conversations about anti-racism within the community. Their artwork was on display throughout February, with special thanks to our sponsor, Alectra Utilities, for making this program possible.