In Conversation: Shelly Skinner, UPlift Black

Shelly Skinner is the president of Uplift Black. And you have probably seen their videos, heard of their events, or seen them on Instagram. 

Even if not, they're a growing community focused on elevating black voices and educating Barrie and Simcoe Muskoka on anti-black racism. 

Along with Making Change, an organization Skinner also helped kickstart, UPlift Black is part of a new wave of local organizations leveraging social media, networking events and more to reach Barrie's Black community and educate people in Barrie on anti-Black racism.  

It's a project that's built with Skinner's long experience in community advocacy and organization. She ran for city council in 2018 and received the Barrie Chamber of Commerce "Women of the Year Heart and Soul Award" in 2020. 

She was a key organizer in the rally of June 2020, which saw thousands show up to show solidarity with George Flloyd, who was murder by a Police Officer in the U.S.A in 2020. While the event drew over 1,000 people, Skinner says the event made here questions where all the white allies in Barrie were during the years prior: anti-Black racism has been an issue in Barrie for decades. 

However, as UPlift Black grows, Skinner says she's encouraged by the support the group's received. Black History month this year, she says, was "overwhelming," compared to other years. 

Uplift Black crafted a calendar of virtual events and videos celebrating the month and black experiences in our city. 

She says businesses and organizations should try to more sustainably participate in the month by ensuring they compensate the educators and speakers who are invited to discuss painful aspects of their experiences Black people -- as well as educating about the vibrant histories of Black people in Canada.