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Re: Newmarket delays proclamation on Christian Heritage Month, Dec. 9, 2024.
Newmarket is a vibrant, diverse and growing community. Newmarket has always prided itself on values of inclusivity, respect, and unity. As we look to strengthen these values, it is essential to recognize the foundational contributions of the Christian community by officially declaring December as Christian Heritage Month.
This is not just a symbolic gesture — it is a necessary acknowledgement of the history, faith, and service that have helped build Newmarket into the town it is today.
From the earliest days of settlement, Christian faith and values played a critical role in shaping Newmarket’s cultural and social fabric. Churches were among the first institutions built, serving not only as places of worship but also as centres for education, social services, and community building. The Christian community’s dedication to charity, outreach, and social justice has been a cornerstone in the development of local support networks that continue to serve all residents, regardless of background.
Recognizing Christian Heritage Month honours these historical contributions and reinforces the importance of understanding our roots to build a more united future.
Some may wonder whether recognizing Christian Heritage Month aligns with Newmarket’s commitment to diversity. In reality, celebrating Christian heritage enhances inclusivity by acknowledging one of the many cultural threads that make up our community’s rich tapestry. Newmarket already celebrates a wide range of cultural heritages, including Islamic, Hindu, Sikh, and Jewish communities. Adding Christian Heritage Month to this list ensures true inclusivity, where all contributions are honoured and respected.
Diversity is not about diminishing one group to elevate another. It is about creating space for all voices, traditions, and histories. Recognizing Christian heritage does not take away from anyone else — it strengthens our collective understanding of who we are as a community.
Christian values such as compassion, service, and charity have left an indelible mark on Newmarket. Food banks, shelters, youth programs, and outreach services founded or supported by Christian organizations continue to provide vital assistance to those in need. By recognizing Christian Heritage Month, we reinforce the importance of these values and the role they play in maintaining a compassionate and resilient community.
Recently, the Regional Municipality of York officially recognized December as Christian Heritage Month, thanks to the leadership and advocacy of Regional Councillor Mario Racco. This acknowledgement reflects a growing momentum toward honouring the Christian community’s contributions and promoting a spirit of unity and inclusivity.
Declaring December as Christian Heritage Month in Newmarket is a step toward honouring the history, values, and community spirit that have contributed so much to our town. It reflects a commitment to inclusivity, respect, and unity — values that define who we are as a community.
Let’s celebrate all that makes Newmarket great by acknowledging the role Christian heritage has played in our shared story. It’s time to recognize December as Christian Heritage Month and ensure that every community feels seen, valued, and celebrated.
Molly Banerjei
CEO, Christian Heritage Month Initiative
