In The Community - Current Events
Canvas For Change will returns in February 2027 at the MacLaren Art Centre
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.
It Starts campaign
The #ITSTARTS campaign is a public education initiative to promote a unified community that embraces inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. The campaign encourages collective action against all forms of discrimination.
For ten years, the #ITSTARTS campaign has encouraged local businesses, organizations, and community members to engage in learning, dialogue, and positive action. This campaign will build on its 10-year legacy and will shift from a 1-month campaign to a year-round initiative.
Take Action:
- Educate yourself, understand about racism and share your knowledge
- Pick up your campaign card at your local library or go to www.simcoe.ca/itstarts
- Post your picture of your campaign card with the hashtag: #ITSTART and tag @CountyofSimcoe
- Perform acts of inclusivity (host a multicultural lunch, learn about different cultures, ask questions, read international authors)
- Challenge friends, family members, colleagues, and community leaders to take a stand. There is strength in numbers!
