Mr. Cecil Blackette The death is announced of Mr. Cecil Blackette, better known as Cess, who departed this life April 14 after being hospitalized for some time.   He was the spouse of Christine Joseph Blackette and brother-in-law of Michael Joseph,  both deceased.  Mr. Blackette was one of the early members of the Grenada Nationals Association of Montreal, Inc. (GNAM) serving in the role as its first Treasurer.  He will be dearly missed at our Grenadian community functions here in Montreal where he resided. Sincerest condolences are extended to his son Terrence “Terry” and daughter Melissa Blackette and his extended family, …

In his insightful article, “Profiling the Future: The Long Struggle Against Police Racial Profiling in Montreal,” Associate Professor Ted Rutland from Concordia University explores the persistent battle against racial profiling in Montreal, tracing its origins to the late 1970s. Rutland highlights how, during this pivotal era, Black communities and anti-racist organizations successfully brought the issue of racial profiling into the public spotlight, urging both the city of Montreal and its police service to adopt measures to combat this widespread problem. His analysis of racial profiling by the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) offers a compelling critique …

Playmas Montreal Cultural Association proudly invites the community to celebrate the achievements of the third cohort of the GemStar Circle of Excellence Scholarship and Mentorship Program. This year, 18 exceptional students will graduate from the program and receive either a $1,500 scholarship or a $500 bursary to support their post-secondary education. The Graduation Ceremony will take place on Sunday, June 29, at 6767 Côte-des-Neiges Road in the main reception hall. The evening will begin with a cocktail graduation reception at 6:00 p.m., followed by the formal ceremony at 7:00 p.m. Guests will join the graduates, their families, mentors, and supporters …

At this time of year, it’s common to hear some Black people expressing frustration with the institution of Black History Month. “Why,” they ask, “do we celebrate Black history for only one month—and the shortest, coldest month of the year at that? Why do we only talk about Black history for just 4 weeks in the dead of winter?” Well, the Playmas Montreal Cultural Association has come up with an answer: The Roots of OurEnglish Black Arts & Culture Program. The Roots Program aims to help preserve and celebrate cultural practices from throughout the African Diaspora within Montreal’s English-speaking Black …

On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, a great voice and entertainer, Dennis James, was laid to rest after a short battle with cancer. Left to mourn is his wife and companion of over fifty years, Mildred James (née Douglas). Also mourning his passing are his children: daughter Kimberly and sons Dennis Jr. and Devaughn. His surviving siblings include Joan, Horris, and Robert, along with his grandchildren, nephews, and nieces. Dennis James was born on the island of St. Lucia to parents Adriana “Addie” James from Guyana and Lawrence James from Bequia, St. Vincent. He was the eighth of ten children. Dennis …

Playmas Montreal Cultural Association proudly presents the 15th Annual A Taste of Tea – Mardi Gras Edition, a vibrant celebration of excellence, culture, and community. On March 9, 2025, we invite you to join us as we honor this year’s distinguished Women of Merit, recognizing their outstanding contributions to society. Ann-Marie Stewart Anne Janice Farray Jewel Jones Seeta Ramdass Theresa Cloe Henwood Yvonne Sam Karen Macdonald Dressed in your finest Caribbean attire, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the islands, enjoy an afternoon of elegance, delicious cuisine, entertainment, and compete for fabulous prizes for the most impressive outfits! Event …

As Playmas Montreal Cultural Association marks its 25th anniversary this year, the organization invites the community to join in a year of celebration, reflection, and cultural enrichment. Known for its vibrant contributions to the arts and community life in Montreal, Playmas Montreal has planned a series of events that promise to captivate, entertain, and honor the diverse fabric of the city. Kicking Off with “A Taste of Tea” The festivities begin on Sun day, March 9, with the highly anticipated “A Taste of Tea.” This beloved Caribbean Tea Party celebrates International Women’s Day and Playmas Montreal’s quarter-century milestone with a …

Salutations! I’m thrilled to be back, sharing more insights from my struggle to prioritize mental wellness in a world that often pushes us beyond our limits in the name of “success.” Did you do the homework I assigned to you last time we met? What have you been writing in your gratitude journal? I would like to remind you that I am not a mental healthcare professional—I am a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) educator, a PhD student researching STEM education for Black youth, and a mother of two beautiful girls. With my background in science and my deep …

The 34th edition of Black History Month in Quebec officially launched on January 25th at City Hall. Organized by the Round Table on Black History Month, this year’s theme, “All That We Carry – Tout ce que nous sommes,” emphasizes the enduring resilience, rich legacy, and significant contributions of Black communities worldwide. The launch event had a turnout community dignitaries, City Councillors and Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante who officiated this year’s opportunity for the laureates to sign Montreal’s Livre d’Or, the city’s official guest book. Michael Farkas, President of the Round Table on Black History Month, highlighted the importance of the annual observance. “It’s very important as a lot …