Pan-African flag raised in Ingersoll in honour of Black History Month

Pan African Flag Raised for Month of February in Ingersoll. (Kyrah Smith Photo)

Kyrah Smith, Echo Correspondent

Members of the Ingersoll community gathered on Feb. 3 at Dewan Park for the Pan-African Flag raising ceremony in recognition of Black History Month.

Heather Rennalls, a member of the Black Heritage Month Committee, opened the ceremony by welcoming attendees and sharing the significance of the moment.

“This is our second time raising the flag throughout Oxford County,” Rennalls explained, “but the first time the flag will be up in Ingersoll for the month of February.”

Rennalls also noted 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of Black History in Canada. In December 1995, the House of Commons formally designated it following a motion introduced by Dr. Jean Augustine, the first Black woman elected to Parliament.

Mayor Brian Petrie addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of visibility and remembrance.

“Ingersoll has a history, and it’s important that during February we have a visual reminder to tell all of our history, and what that means.”

Petrie also referenced the town’s involvement with the Potter’s Field Project, speaking to the importance of acknowledging the past.

“It’s not always what we hope it is, but the stories that come out are truly amazing, and that’s what we celebrate.”

Council Member Khadijah Haliru also shared remarks, reflecting on the responsibility of the current moment.

“The present is the history of tomorrow.”

Haliru expressed pride in being the first Black elected member of Ingersoll Town Council, while acknowledging that bias and the fight for equality remain ongoing challenges. She stressed the importance of listening and understanding one another.

“Canada is a wonderfully diverse community. I implore the next generation to learn that the world is vast and diverse.”

Following the speeches, the Pan-African Flag was raised as attendees looked on. Community members were then invited to continue the conversation at the Ingersoll Public Library, where a display highlighting Black history in Oxford County was available, featuring articles and literature for further learning.

Woodstock native Duane Kumala Thomas, the artist behind the Underground Railroad–inspired sculpture located outside the Ingersoll Library, also addressed the gathering. Thomas shared reflections on community and history, including a reading of his poem, “This Town of Ours.”

The flag will remain raised throughout February, serving as a visible reminder of Black history, resilience, and the ongoing importance of learning, reflection, and inclusion within the community.