BC Parks Foundation

Celebrating Black History Month: A Day of Belonging at Peace Arch Park 

On a recent trip to Peace Arch Provincial Park, newcomers to BC gathered for a day of connection, exploration, and fun, supported by BC Parks Foundation's Spark Fund. ⁠ 

For many families, it was their first opportunity to experience the beauty of one of BC’s provincial parks. They stood beneath the iconic Peace Arch, engraved with the words “Children of a Common Mother.” This unique cross-border park reflects the spirit of unity and belonging—a sentiment especially meaningful for families starting fresh in a new country.

The event was organized in partnership with MOSAIC, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering newcomers and refugees through support services, community programs, and employment opportunities. At the heart of the gathering was a woman who'd once accessed MOSAIC's services herself. Now, she was the one providing care—preparing a home-cooked meal that brought together Swahili, Tigrinya, Somali, and Arabic-speaking families over shared flavours and stories. Thanks to MOSAIC's support, she'd earned her Food Safe certificate, making it possible for her to cook for the community in an official capacity.

She served a warm and nourishing feast of rice, meat, and beans, accompanied by fresh bread. For dessert, she'd baked homemade cookies, a sweet way to end the meal. “Food is more than food,” says Monica Navarro-Cespedes, MOSAIC's Youth Program Coordinator. “It’s a way to take care of each other.”

Throughout the day, conversations flowed easily, friendships formed, and children played in the open green space. “You could see the joy on everyone's faces,” says Monica. “There was this beautiful sense of connection—not just with nature, but with each other. Families left feeling like they belonged.”

By the end of the event, Monica says many were already planning their next visit. Access to nature helps people feel at home in BC, and that starts with moments like this.

At BC Parks Foundation, we are proud to support these experiences through our Spark Fund, ensuring that nature is a place for everyone to connect, thrive, and feel joy. ⁠ 

As we celebrate Black History Month, we recognize the Black communities whose presence and stories enrich our communities and the beauty of our parks and protected places. Together, we can create opportunities for all communities to experience the transformative power of nature. ⁠

Your support makes this possible! Donate to the Spark Fund today and help more people experience the life-changing power of BC’s parks and protected areas.