Our hearts are heavy as we watch the situation in Ukraine unfold and we know we are not alone.

My name is Amaka, and I am a Nigerian Canadian. I am a Nigerian Canadian. I am also the Director of Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge Child Development Centre since its inception. Along with my fellow Black colleague as my supervisor… We believe we’ve made a first in the history of our YMCA Calgary.

YMCA Calgary considers our international partners and colleagues from YMCA Ukraine as part of our extended family. As part of our active involvement in the World Alliance of YMCAs, we directly partner with the YMCA in Ukraine and Bogotá, Colombia to exchange expertise, resources, and share ideas.  

Today we are sharing the history and legacy of Violet King, a Calgary born trailblazer with a unique YMCA connection. Her name is Violet King. Violet King was born October 18, 1929, in Calgary, Alberta. A descendant of American settlers, King’s grandparents arrived in Keystone, AB (now known as Breton, AB) in 1911.

YMCA Calgary proudly joins people across Canada and around the world to celebrate Black History Month. The 2022 theme: “February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day,” focuses on recognizing the daily contributions that Black Canadians make to Canada.