matterofblackniagara Matter-of-Black-108918417547359 | 2021 Business That Gives Back Award Finalist

Matter of Black was founded in June 2020 with a mission to amplify Black voices, Black history and Black businesses in the Niagara region. As a group of concerned, compassionate citizens they decided to revitalize the Emancipation Day picnic that some of their members had celebrated since childhood on the first Sunday in August in Lakeside Park. 

Matter of Black aims to bring back annual Emancipation Day celebrations and education to the heart of St. Catharines and Niagara. They value the creation of a safe, welcoming space for Niagara’s Black community to discuss a multitude of challenges the community faces. They proudly offer opportunities to come together through workshops and panels that promote anti-racism practices and active allyship. 

This initiative was founded by Mutsa Charamba, Erica Williams, Erika Smith, Jaida Steenhuis, and Natasha Bell.