Today, August 1, is the inaugural Emancipation Day here in New Brunswick. This is a day to remember the sacrifices of slaves, to examine our history and the legacy of the slave-master relationship, and to celebrate the resilience and accomplishments of Afro-Canadians.

The recognition of this very important day was a strong message for people of African descent. We felt that within the Assembly, elected officials recognize our difficulties in diversifying our communities.

Today, the honour of celebrating or recognizing Emancipation Day represents the culmination of the International Decade for People of African Descent. Now, what about New Brunswick?

At the provincial level, I believe that we have failed to achieve the goals of the UN General Assembly Resolution 68/237. This resolution calls on countries to implement policies and programs that combat racism and strengthen the economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights of people of African descent so that they can participate fully and equally in all aspects of society. The central themes of the resolution are recognition, justice and development.

Let us not forget that slavery took place right here in Canada for nearly three centuries. Before we can speak of fraternity and reconciliation between fellow citizens, there must be recognition and reparation.

By the end of the Decade, we call on the provincial government to take a leadership role and act decisively to provide concrete measures to restore the dignity of people of African descent.

Phylomène Zangio

Green Party of NB candidate, 2020 provincial election
More about Phylomène here.

 

In this issue:

• 10 Years Strong: A Celebration of David Coon’s Leadership
• Get Involved!
  • 10 Years Strong: A Celebration of David Coon’s Leadership
  • Events:
    • GPNB Multicultural BBQ
    • Pride in your Community
    • Catch David on the Road

Ten Years Strong: A Celebration of David Coon’s Leadership

Can you believe we are approaching David Coon’s 10-year anniversary as leader of the Green Party of New Brunswick?

Think about how much our Party membership has grown over the last decade. Remember the excitement we all felt with the election and re-election of three devoted Green MLAs. Their strong track record as MLAs has positioned us as a force in the province ready and willing to form government. 

There’s a lot to celebrate! 

This September is an opportunity to celebrate David Coon as the steadfast, compassionate, and tenured leader that he is.

But as a Green, you surely know that this isn’t a top-down affair. This is our chance to celebrate all who have been instrumental to this success: new and long-time members, volunteers, activists, organizers, door knockers, phone callers…and everyone who has contributed to the growth of our Green movement over the last decade.

 

But in the meantime…

If you haven’t already, please REGISTER for Ten Years Strong: A Celebration of David Coon’s Leadership  on Saturday, September 10 at 7pm in Fredericton. This event is the kick-off for David’s provincial tour in September. 

If you would like to volunteer or help organize an event in one of the towns/regions listed below, please email [email protected].

-- Greater Moncton, Saint John, Sackville, Kent North, St. Andrews, Chaleur, Cap Pelé, Woodstock, Péninsule Acadienne, Kedgwick, Sussex --

In preparation for the festivities, we would love for you to email your favourite photo of yourself with David Coon to [email protected].

Get Involved!

10-Year Celebrations

Please reach out to [email protected] if you can volunteer at or help organize events across the province to celebrate David Coon’s 10 years as leader. 

Email your favourite photo of yourself with David Coon to [email protected].

GPNB Multicultural BBQ

Isn’t summer synonymous with BBQ? Come eat delicious food in a family-friendly and festive atmosphere. There will be traditional BBQ from around the world, music, face painting, eco-friendly water balloon games, bouncy castle and more! 

Please join us on Saturday, August 20th from 12:00pm to 3:00pm for our Multicultural Family BBQ at Centennial Park, 811 St. George Blvd, Moncton. (More info on the Facebook event.)

Pride Parades 

Join the Green Party of NB at the Fredericton Pride Parade on August 21st (contact [email protected]) and in Moncton on August 27 (contact [email protected]).

If you would like to represent the Green Party at your local Pride Parade, please reach out to Amanda.  

Catch David on the Road!

August 1 - Emancipation Day & New Brunswick Day Celebrations, Fredericton, NB

August 5 - Festival Acadien (Lisa Leblanc & Edith Butler Concert), Caraquet, NB

August 20 - GPNB Multicultural Family BBQ, Moncton, NB

August 21 - Pride Parade, Fredericton, NB

August 26 - Kent Expo, Ste Marie de Kent, NB

August 27 - Pride Parade, Moncton, NB

…And many more in September!