Oshawa recently marked its 100th anniversary, and the city’s Caribbean community was at the forefront of the celebrations. Club Carib of Oshawa, a cultural cornerstone for Caribbean heritage, hosted an evening filled with Caribbean music, food, and stories, attracting over 120 people, including community members and Caribbean culture enthusiasts.

The event highlighted the long-standing contributions of the Caribbean community to the city’s cultural fabric. Jennifer French, Member of Provincial Parliament for Oshawa, attended the celebration alongside Eric Iverson from Oshawa and Granville Anderson from Clarington. French expressed her gratitude, stating, “Club Carib has ensured that this space is a home for so many, a home away from home, welcoming the broader community.”

The celebration was not just about the present but also reflected on the rich history of Caribbean contributions in Oshawa. French reminisced about conversations with long-time community members like Juliette, who started cooking for events at the club when she was just five years old. French also shared stories about the steel pan tradition in Oshawa, a symbol of cultural continuity and resilience. “The original pans were made from GM barrels pulled from the dump,” she noted, highlighting the resourcefulness and creativity of the early pioneers.

Club Carib has been a hub for Caribbean culture for 58 years, offering a space for dance, music, food, and cultural events that continue to shape the city’s multicultural identity.

Minister Caroline Atkinson led the opening prayer, giving thanks for both the city of Oshawa and the contributions of Club Carib. “We acknowledge the gift of both city and club, and the culture, dance, and welcoming spirit they bring to everyone,” she stated.

The event also honored the legacy of Caribbean nurses who were invited to Oshawa in the 1960s as part of Canada’s immigration initiative. Among the honored guests was Daisy Wilson, one of the nurses who answered the call and helped build a lively community around Club Carib; now ninety Wilson was also the first Club Carib queen.

The evening featured performances that showcased the breadth of Caribbean talent in Oshawa. Traditional steel pan music echoed through the hall, celebrating the city’s deep connection to the Caribbean musical heritage. The audience enjoyed storytelling, a cherished tradition kept alive by Club Carib, as well as dances performed by the club’s hummingbird dance troupe.

As Oshawa continues to grow, the city’s Caribbean community remains a vital part of its story. Club Carib’s centennial celebration not only commemorated the city’s history but also emphasized the ongoing impact of Caribbean culture and heritage in shaping Oshawa’s future.