AggieStrong the Ultimate Life Coach

Faith is a huge part of Black culture. On the last Sunday of Black History Month, I took the liberty of visiting Toronto’s first Black church and establishment—First Baptist Church.  It was a true jubilee. Rev. Dr. Wendell Gibbs's message was powerful and deeply moving. He reminded us of our identity in Christ, declaring, “Black history didn’t begin with slavery or emancipation but in the Genesis beginning.” He also spoke of “The anguish of our ancestors… those who died [so we could have] peace… May humanity never again perpetrate such injustice against humanity. [And] we… vow[ed] to uphold this.” The service reached a pivotal moment when the congregation joined the choir in singing: I’m no longer a slave to fear I am a child of God. Founded in 1826 by formerly enslaved people who sought refuge in Canada, First Baptist Church has long stood as a pillar of the Black community. While the original congregation laid its foundation nearly two centuries ago, the current building, complet...

As we dive into February, I'm happy to recognize Black History Month and the incredible contributions of Black people throughout history, around the world and at home. This month is our time to shine as we remember the incredible achievements, resilience, and rich culture of the Black people. Black history is more than a chapter in a textbook or a month in a year; it's woven into the very fabric of our society, shaping how we live, work and play. From global icons like Martin Luther King Jr. to national heroes like Viola Desmond, the impact of Black leaders is undeniable.  🌟 Here are seven remarkable figures from around the world 🌎 whose contributions have made a lasting impact: 🌟 🇺🇲 Harriet Tubman (1822 – 1913):  An abolitionist and freedom fighter, Harriet Tubman's bravery and determination led hundreds of enslaved individuals to freedom through the Underground Railroad in 1849, and over the span of 10 years. Her remarkable courage and selflessness continue to inspi...

Speaking as a concerned citizen of Canada 🇨🇦,  Pierre Poilievre pushing this issue and politicizing it for his apparent political gain is bringing more public and international disgrace to Canada than anyone else. He and his conservative caucus should remember this is the office they are fighting for, and what goes around comes around. Trying to shift the onus from Speaker Anthony Rota to PM Justin Trudeau is unfair and unintelligent, making the situation more hurtful and harmful. Notwithstanding, I believe that Rota should resign as he has. If Rota knew that 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka (shown in title image) fought for Ukraine 🇺🇦 in WWII, he should have known or ought to have known which side he fought for and that he is, in fact, a Nazi. Given the guest of honour, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a President at war with Russia 🇷🇺 and a Jew, Rota should have thoroughly vetted the war vet. He would have realized that he was not worthy to be in the presence of the House of Parliament 🇨🇦....

What is the difference between equality and equity? That is the age-old question. For centuries, women have experienced unfair and inequitable treatment in their careers, politics, and even the church, not to mention in the home. This year, as we commemorate International Women's Day, let us celebrate and appreciate the value and impact women bring to the table in whatever capacity they undertake.  But, I would be remiss if I did not make special mention of Black women—strong Black women all over the world who blazed the trails not only on sexism but on the double consciousness of being Black and female at the same time. Not only were they instrumental in charting the path for women's suffrage and the feminist movement, but they also fought for the rights and dignity of Blacks or coloured folks in all things human.  To quote Audre Lorde: "Women are powerful and dangerous." By that, I take it to mean don't mess with women; even though they may seem small and weak, ...

Since February 1979, Black History Month has been routinely recognized in Toronto and all across Canada and the United Sates of America (since 1926) to honor the hidden and often forgotten contribution and legacy of our Black ancestors. Black history is also annually recognized in the United Kingdom in October. Today many simple-minded (for lack of a better term) individuals of society try to dismiss and disregard this special dedication and historic devotion as unnecessary; instead of celebrating our evolution. There was a time when we fought to have our history taught  and recognized. The purpose of this sacred devotion is to remember the impact these talented and courageous individuals have made on society, learn from them, and let the lessons inspire and motivate our youths. Without this dedication, many of us would not know our history. White people don't need a white history day or month. White history has always been recognized and taught as part of regu...

Title header - Women's March on Washington - Toronto - google image This weekend I was proud to be one of the peaceful, pink hats, people/protesters. Even though I didn't have a pink hat, and as much as I wanted one, I didn't let that stop me from getting dressed and getting out to join the march. I put on my brightest pink lipstick and pink tunic top and marched my ass downtown because this pussy fights back. No tiny hand is gonna grab my pussy! Us nasty women (and men) fight like a girl out in the streets as sisters in solidarity with signs that scream loud and clear.   The Stats Women's March Toronto - People in peaceful protest - Nathan Phillip's Sq - google image The march was reportedly the biggest in America's h-er-story amassing to the tune of 2.9 million according to a   Google document .  In Canada, it's bordering neighbor to the North, we also showed up in record numbers in support of our sisters in solidarity: An esti...