Halton Black
HistoryAwareness Society
LOCAL LENS
Multiculturalism: Cultural Equality
Essay and Video Contest
Through this contest, we have witnessed inspiring submissions
that highlight the unique perspectives and creativity of our community and young people.
About
The HBHAS, in conjunction with numerous Halton community partners, is pleased to invite young people to learn about Halton’s diverse history and present innovative ways to eradicate racism, hate and bullying within Halton.
The program kicks on Monday Jan. 27, 2025.
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The theme is "Community, Roots & Culture," a rich history of contribution, persistence, pride, accomplishment, and identity.
Who
HBHAS’ Local Lens project is a learning opportunity for young people and audiences.
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​For educators seeking a way to engage their students in learning local history and increase their profile, this is a great program.
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Through video, spoken word and written essays they present their ideas around how to eradicate racism, hate and bullying within Halton.
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Young people are invited to enter the essay contest.
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Submissions
​Essays and videos are due by 5 p.m. on May 31, 2025.
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First, second, and third place winners in essays and videos will earn honorariums, community and cultural recognition, and media promotion.
Some of the winners speak at HBHAS events which feature local politicians and dignitaries.
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Keda Edwards Pierre: keda@true2soul.com.
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The HBHAS thanks you for your participation and welcomes you
to our future HBHAS programs and events.
Have a great year at school.
Partners
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Grade 10 - Burlington Central High School
Grade 10 - Burlington Central High School
Grade 12 - Georgetown District High School
2023 Winner, Burlington Central High School
Bishop Reding Catholic Secondary School
Burlington Central High School
White Oaks Secondary School
École Secondaire Catholique Sainte-Trinité/Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary School
Thank you for your ongoing support appreciating our diverse community, learning about how cultural integration can develop knowledge and self appreciation and identity, and progress towards a more authentic inclusive collaborative environment at home, school and vocation. Thank you for your interest and participation. Continued successes.
2024 CONTEST WINNERS
Congratulations to all the winners!
Through this contest, we have witnessed inspiring submissions that highlight the unique perspectives and creativity of our community and young people.
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Their exceptional work truly embodies the spirit of this impactful HBHAS initiative.
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Click on the winners' photos for more information and their winning essay.
2023 AND 2022 CONTEST WINNERS
The HBHAS thanks all contestants, jury and project members for their respective input in developing and participating in this project inclusive of the Halton Secondary School Board, Halton Catholic School Board, Metroland Media, Joseph Brant Museum, Oakville Museum and Burlington, Milton, Halton Hills, and Oakville Libraries. Continued successes.
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Click on the winners' photos for more information.
The winning contestants received awards and honorariums of $500 first prize, $250 second prize, and $100 third prize. Metroland Media (Inside Halton) interviewed our two first place contestants and placed excerpts of their narratives in their Halton newspapers.
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The winners received their awards at our 2022 Emancipation Gala on July 29 signed and presented by Lawrence Hill and the Halton Black History Awareness Society.
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The HBHAS is working towards developing an annual journal, with the support of the partner libraries, museums and sponsors, incorporating “selected” narratives to be distributed within their networks.
Kudos to Burlington, Oakville, Milton, and Halton Hills in participating and supporting this valuable program as stated by the majority of essay providers.
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