Black families in Hamilton, Burlington and Milton find summer 'magic' in cookout, camp out weekend

CBC

11 hours ago

Kelso Conservation Area was transformed into a vibrant celebration of Black culture, connection, and community on July 26, as Halton Black Voices (HBV) hosted its annual Community Healing Cookout and Black Campout.
More than 100 families from across Halton Region and Hamilton arrived with tents, blankets, lawn chairs, and open hearts for a weekend of laughter, music, and shared experience.
What started as a grassroots initiative during the pandemic to offer safe, affirming spaces for Black people living in Halton has grown into a beloved summer tradition.
This year's event featured meals that filled the air with the rich aromas of Caribbean and African cuisine.
Attendees spent the day soaking up the sun, exploring scenic trails, and playing dominoes late into the night.
Despite a bit of rain, families remained enthusiastic, embracing the experience and looking forward to camping, connecting, and simply being in community. For many, it was more than just a camp out.
"I love being around my Black people," said Hamilton's Lascelles Stewart. "It feels nice that we are the majority here, not the minority."
His wife, Malene Stewart, first discovered HBV during the pandemic through their virtual book club. That experience grew into a lasting connection. "Last year was our family's first time camping in a tent," she shared.
"The kids made instant friendships. My son Jonah met a group of boys once, and all year, he talked about missing them. That's how deep the connection runs."
This year, the Stewarts returned with two of their four sons — Noah, 19 and Jonah, eight. She said she was "looking forward to the drumming, the music, the dancing, and just walking around in nature. It's fun to sleep in a tent — even though I don't like bugs," she laughed.
'They've created something meaningful'
The accessibility of the event emerged as one of its most impactful features.
"If this wasn't a Black-led, community-rooted event, we probably never would've gone camping," said Lascelles. "Camping never really felt like it was meant for us. But HBV changed that. With the cost of living so high, they've created something meaningful that doesn't come with a financial burden."
Shaunice Dorsey, from Hamilton, agreed.
"This is our second year camping with HBV, but our first as a whole family," she said. "For a lot of Black families, there's a history of not camping. Seeing other Black people here — it's healing. The energy is different. It's special."
Dorsey's mother joined the camp out for the first time at the age of 68. "Every year they try to get me to camp," she said with a laugh. "But it's just one night — I'll survive one night."
For Dorsey, the most valuable part of the experience was simple. "Honestly, my favourite part is just resetting. Unplugging. And feeling safe."
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Adejsiola Atiba, a local leader and a candidate for the current byelection in Milton's Ward 1, also joined in the celebration. "Banking is my profession, but community is my passion," she said. "Coming to the cookout is an opportunity to connect — with culture, with neighbours, and with purpose."
The infectious energy of DJ Icon, HBV's official DJ, kept spirits high throughout the day as his vibrant mix of Afro-Caribbean, hip-hop, and soul echoed across the park, drawing curious onlookers and longtime campers alike.
Families who had never heard of HBV, but were camping at Kelso for the weekend, found themselves dancing, sharing meals, and joining the celebration. Many said they'll return next year.
The day was filled with a variety of activities, from arts and crafts with May Touma to a lively performance by Sasha and The Dope Band, drumming circles, and guided hikes. Families enjoyed the water park at Kelso Conservation free of cost, and friends bonded over campfire s'mores.
On the morning of July 27 campers slowly began packing up tents and coolers, but the impact of the weekend lingered.
"Growing up in a predominantly white community, I never had this," said Malene Stewart. "This sense of inclusion, of support, of belonging. I wish I had this when I was younger. It's magic being out in nature, together."
Founded in 2020, HBV was built on the foundation of dismantling systemic racism and amplifying Black voices. Through events like the cookout and camp out, the organization continues to foster joy, healing, and community strength across generations.
Chizoba Obidigbo-Egbo, a board member from Burlington, summed it up best as she sat beside her family beneath the trees: "This is what legacy looks like."
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