Diversity celebrated at Springdale

Around 330 children-the entire student body of Springdale Elementary in Dollard des Ormeaux-gathered at the school's large gymnasium last week for a luncheon celebrating diversity on the occasion of Black History Month, with guests such as former heavyweight champion Otis Grant and Yolande James, provincial Liberal MNA and Minister of Immigration and Cultural Communities, in attendance as well.

"You have such a privilege to be able to go to a school where you can see different things," said James in a short speech to the children, telling them it is important to be able to understand and be accepting of each others' differences.

"Remember these moments when you are here sitting with each other," she said.

It was a point driven home by David Estok, principal of the school, as well. "You're participating in an act of sharing, of sharing our differences," he told the children.

According to Estok, Springdale is one of the most unique schools in the West Island, with a student body of over 30 different origins. He said the school always focuses on the importance of diversity in February.

"We have a couple of different presentations (coming up) that deal with understanding and tolerance of diversity," he said.

The luncheon was organized through the West Island Black Community Association, which was able to use the occasion to train young adults as cooks and chefs through its "second chance" program. The program allows teens with difficult backgrounds, such as school drop-outs, to learn culinary skills.

"I think (today's event is) a good opportunity for kids to learn about each other," said Otis Grant, whose charity the Otis Grant Foundation provided the day's food to WIBCA.