Snow no barrier as UWindsor marks fourth annual Pan-African flag raising

A flag raising to kick off to black history month.

Freezing temperatures and blowing snow did little to dampen enthusiasm Monday as students and staff gathered outside Chrysler Hall at the University of Windsor to mark the start of Black History Month.

The noon ceremony, now in its fourth year, featured the raising of the red, black and green Pan-African flag — a symbol of unity and pride for people of African descent around the world.

Marium Tolson-Murtty, director of human rights, conflict resolution and mediation at the university, said the annual event continues to grow in both size and significance.

“It is an important event. And each and every single year it gets bigger and better,” she said. “It’s just a nice remembrance in terms of what Black history means, not only to our region, but just to our society as a whole.”

Tolson-Murtty said the ceremony sends a strong message to Black students on campus — particularly those who may be new to Windsor-Essex.

“I think it says that we are very proud of our heritage,” she explained. “Knowing that there is such a rich and deep cultural history here in terms of Black history, to represent some of that here today is just so significant and so important to the students.”

She noted the event carries added meaning given Windsor’s historic ties to the Underground Railroad and early Black settlements in the region.

“The fact that we’re on the doorstep of Sandwich Town, one of the most significant and historical Black communities in Canada, just speaks volumes,” Tolson-Murtty told CTV News. “If this is an opportunity for students, faculty and staff to explore a little bit more of Sandwich Town, I hope that this event sparks that interest.”

The flag raising also serves as the kickoff to a month of activities both on campus and across Windsor-Essex.

Tolson-Murtty pointed to the university’s long-running Afro Fest celebrations, along with a range of community partnerships and events involving faculty, students, staff and alumni.

“It’s just an opportunity to celebrate what everyone is doing in the community for this month,” she said.

Despite some harsh winter weather, she said the turnout demonstrated how meaningful the ceremony has become.

“I think it’s great, especially today when it’s freezing. But the fact that people did show up really signifies that this is important to them,” Tolson-Murtty said.

Looking ahead, she added the goal is to ensure the spirit of the month extends beyond February.

“Hopefully it’s a month-long opportunity of learning — but recognizing Black history 365 days a year, that’s what it’s all about.”