July is Caribbean Heritage Month in Canada, and this year marks the fourth annual celebration of Caribbean Heritage Month in Manitoba. Guided by this year's theme – Our Heritage. Our Strength. Our Future. – the month celebrates the rich history, vibrant cultures and enduring contributions of Caribbean Canadians to communities throughout Manitoba and across Canada.
Our city comes alive in July. Parks, neighbourhoods and festivals bring people together to celebrate the cultures, traditions and stories that make Winnipeg such a vibrant place to call home. It's only fitting that we take this opportunity to celebrate the many Caribbean communities that help shape our city.
From music, dance and cuisine to sport, business, education, public service and community leadership, Caribbean culture has enriched Canada's social, cultural and economic fabric for generations. Here in Manitoba, organizations such as the Council of Caribbean Organizations of Manitoba continue to strengthen our community by promoting culture, fostering understanding and creating opportunities for people to come together.
Throughout July, members of the Winnipeg Police Service look forward to joining the community at several Caribbean Heritage Month events, including the opening ceremony at the Manitoba Legislative Building, the community picnic at Crescent Drive Park and the cultural showcase at Jamaica Hall. We appreciate opportunities like these to learn, connect and celebrate alongside our community partners.
We know that building safe communities begins with building relationships. Caribbean Heritage Month provides another opportunity to celebrate the cultures, histories and people who help make Winnipeg the diverse and welcoming city we are proud to serve.
Happy Caribbean Heritage Month!