Every day, Guiders like Shontal make a lasting impact on the girls in their unit by celebrating the creativity, amazingness and resilience of Black girls and women.
We connected with Shontal to learn how she inspires girls to use their voices, think big and make the world a better place.
What does celebrating Black History Month mean to you?
To me, celebrating Black History Month is an essential way to recognize the rich contributions and achievements of Black Canadians throughout history while looking to the future. It is also an opportunity to acknowledge the challenges many Black Canadians still face while working toward a more equitable society.
How does your unit celebrate Black History Month? What are some enriching ways you think units can celebrate?
This year, our unit will discuss Black Canadian women’s contributions to our country’s history. Units can celebrate Black History Month in various enriching ways, such as visiting local historical sites, inviting guest speakers into their meetings, incorporating diverse literature and art, and highlighting the diversity within Black culture.
Girl Guides strives to be a place where all girls and women can say ‘I belong here, I am welcome here’. Can you think of some examples of where you see that happening? And how important is this for racialized girls and women?
Creating an environment where all girls and women feel a sense of belonging and welcome is crucial for fostering diversity and inclusion. Personally, as a Black Guider with many racialized youth in my unit, I understand the importance of having diverse role models who can show you that you can be or do anything by being or doing it yourself. I often say, “If you can see it, you can be it,” and I feel that Girl Guides of Canada has taken the initiative to showcase the diversity of its youth and adult members, which highlights that this is a space for everyone.
Is there any advice you would offer to Black girls, youth and young women in Guiding?
For Black girls, youth, and young women in Guiding, my advice would be to embrace your unique identity, be proud of your heritage, and take advantage of the diverse learning opportunities within the organization. You have a unique position to use your voice to contribute to the inclusivity and richness of the Guiding community. Remember that your experiences and perspectives are valuable, and by sharing them, you contribute to a more diverse and vibrant Guiding environment.
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