Esther Forde, Owner and Curator of Cultural Expressions Art Gallery

Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Esther Forde and I am the owner and curator of Cultural Expressions Art Gallery. The gallery was established to provide a venue for cultural and ethnic art of local Canadian and international artists that reflect our diverse community. I am also the President of Cultural Expressions Art Gallery Inc., a not-for-profit corporation that contributes to making art and culture accessible through special events. We are best known for our Durham Black History Month Celebration and I am also the Committee Chair. I enjoy working in the community with various groups and organizations in the arts and promoting diversity to bring our communities together.

How would you describe yourself and your commitment to the Black Community/business sector?

I would describe myself as a Black Woman and entrepreneur who is willing to work unselfishly to make a positive difference in the Black community and Durham at large, both in the community and business sector.

Why is Black History Month important for us to celebrate and recognize?

Black History Month is so very important. I live for the day when there is no need for Black History Month because it is celebrated every day and recognized as an important part of our Canadian history, but we are not there yet and have a long road ahead before that time arrives. Black History Month is needed to educate and uplift the community using historical and modern achievements of Black Canadians to stimulate inter-cultural dialogue on the importance of understanding, recognizing, and celebrating diversity (racial, cultural, ethnic, gender, class) amongst all members of society. To recognize we are more alike than different, our wants and needs are very much the same for our lives, our children and our families. We invite the community to join in our Celebration of the successes and achievements in the Black Diaspora.

What accomplishment are you most proud of and what more needs to be done in our community?

I am very proud of our Durham Black History Month Celebration and the work and dedication of our committee to reach the significant milestone of 15 years. From our very humble beginnings at the gallery, to The Town of Ajax Council Chambers, to J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate and now to be hosting our second virtual event.

We are always stronger together and can accomplish so much more. We have started to collaborate more and need to continue to work towards greater progress.

This year we celebrate our 15th year presenting Durham Black History Month Celebration and hope everyone will join us February 5 at 7pm and February 6 at 2 pm at www.durhamblackhistorymonth.com.

What kind of role do you think Elexicon can play in supporting the Black Community as their electricity utility?

I am so very pleased to see Elexicon stepping up to show support to the Black Community. By their contributions, Elexicon recognizes that we, the home owners, are major contributors to the preservation of the utility company. Cultural Expressions Art Gallery Inc. is very appreciative of Elexicon’s support of our Durham Black History Month Celebration 2022. By sponsoring/supporting similar events and Black organizations, Elexicon confirms and recognizes the contribution of the Black Community to the Durham Region as a whole.