NEWS RELEASE

“Legacy in Threads: Uniting Through Creativity and Advocacy”

TORONTO — Patches 360, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to empowering children and families, proudly announces its upcoming Black History Month initiative, “Legacy in Threads: Uniting Through Creativity and Advocacy”. Aligned with the United Nations Decade of People of African Descent (2015-2024) — this initiative aims to celebrate the cultural heritage and achievements of Black students ages 6-12 and their families in the Peel Region.

Aligned with the United Nations Decade of People of African Descent (2015-2024) — this initiative aims to celebrate the cultural heritage and achievements of Black students ages 6-12 and their families in the Peel Region.

Kemesha Alli, Founder and Executive Director of Patches 360, affirmed the organization’s mission, stating, “We believe that celebrating the legacy and contributions of the Black community is essential in fostering solidarity and inclusivity. ‘Legacy in Threads’ embodies our dedication to celebrating our common thread as human beings by preserving cultural heritage, amplifying unheard voices, and advocating for a brighter future for all”.

“Legacy in Threads: Uniting Through Creativity and Advocacy” features The Social Justice Quilting Workshop, Podcast Listening Tour, and Interactive Digital Storytelling Campaign. All of these initiatives are born of the transformative vision and actionable goals of Patches 360, encapsulating the organization’s commitment to promoting social, emotional and mental well-being, advocacy, and community empowerment.

For information on Patches 360 and the “Legacy in Threads” initiative, please refer to the attached media kit or e-mail connect@patches360.com , 416-640-8860.

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QUICK FACTS

• Patches 360 is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism in leading transformative initiatives that directly contribute to the advancement and support of Black youth in Ontario; aligning with the objectives and priorities outlined in the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism’s Black Youth Success Plan.
• Our organization’s proactive approach to addressing the needs of Black students ages 6-12 and their families during Black History Month reflects a commitment to positive change and empowerment within the Black community.
• The social justice quilting workshop serves as a compelling embodiment of the Ministry’s objective to promote cultural identity and historical awareness among Black youth. Through this initiative, our organization offers a platform for participants to explore their heritage, express their experiences, and engage in meaningful dialogue surrounding issues of social justice within a creative and therapeutic environment. By highlighting the cultural significance of quilting within the African diaspora and its impact on social justice movements, Patches 360 actively contributes to promoting cultural awareness and fostering a sense of pride and identity among Black youth in Ontario.
• Our podcast listening tour, which features interviews with Black students and their parents separately, aligns with the Ministry’s priority to create inclusive and supportive spaces for Black youth. By amplifying the unheard voices and experiences of Black youth and their families, we provide a platform for personal storytelling, valuable insights, and discussions that directly address the diverse needs and aspirations of the community. This initiative emphasizes the importance of representation, validation of experiences, and the promotion of mental well-being among Black youth in Ontario.
• Furthermore, our interactive digital storytelling campaign aims to empower the next generation and advocate for equitable opportunities within the education system. By showcasing success stories and celebrating the achievements of Black students, our organization directly supports the Ministry’s goal of promoting educational success and leadership development among Black youth. Through this campaign, we aim to mobilize support for addressing systemic barriers, fostering an inclusive environment, and advocating for the advancement of Black students within the educational landscape of Ontario.