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Unifor members and their families gathered under sunny skies at Halifax’s historic Seaview Africville Park for the Atlantic Region Black, Indigenous Workers of Colour (BIWOC) Committee Family BBQ—a vibrant afternoon filled with food, fun and community spirit.
Laughter echoed across the park as children bounced in the castle, had their faces painted, and joined in on games and activities. Adults mingled over plates of delicious barbecue, reconnecting and forging new bonds in a space that radiated belonging and celebration.
“This event is really about creating a space where people feel seen, supported and connected,” said Lorna Bowden, chairperson of the Atlantic BIWOC Committee. “We want families to enjoy themselves and know they are part of something bigger—a union community that values inclusion and equity.”
The July 12 event, open to all Unifor members and their families, was a powerful reflection of the BIWOC Committee’s commitment to building bridges within the union and across communities.
“The Atlantic BIWOC group is one of the most active in the country,” said Atlantic Regional Director Jennifer Murray. “They’re boots on the ground, educating, advocating, and making sure people know they belong. I’m so proud of the work they do, always bringing people together and creating real change in our union and in our workplaces.”
Unifor Ontario Regional Director Samia Hashi, who joined the BBQ in solidarity, emphasized the power of spaces like these: “As a woman of colour in leadership, I know how essential it is to build spaces where equity is lived, not just spoken. The Atlantic BIWOC Committee is doing that work every day. This BBQ is a joyful example of how community and activism go hand in hand.”
The Atlantic BIWOC Committee recently received funding from Unifor’s equity fund to support anti-racism education initiatives in the region, further strengthening their work in creating an inclusive and informed membership.
From fun in the sun to meaningful conversations, the BBQ was a perfect snapshot of what the BIWOC Committee stands for: connection, celebration, and a shared commitment to justice and equity for all.
View the BBQ photo gallery here.
