Rita Cox The Unsung Storyteller Who Preserved Black History and Culture

Pavraj S

8C

In downtown Parkdale, a place in Toronto where a woman, named Rita Cox, was None the wiser to many lives changing. It was back in 1972, the woman, originally from the land of Trinidad and Tobago, had just been appointed chief librarian at the Parkdale Public Library. However, on the first day of entering work, she soon recognized that one aspect was missing: stories representative of the faces in her community.

It was the biggest and best library; however, none of the stories had the actual true developments that took place within the doors of this wonderful institution by the Black and Caribbean families each day. Rita understood how powerful it is, thus before long, she was supplementing the shelves with volumes that honored Blackness in all its history and folklore. She wanted every child to see something of himself or herself in it.

But Rita did not stop there. She believed stories exist not only to be read but also to be told. Storytelling sessions would commence during which such storytellers as Anansi the spider and other tricksters would be brought to faces trained in West Indian folktales. Little children and big adults would gather, as if glued, to hear her voice.

Most newcomers also battle with reading and writing. So, she set up certain literacy programs to assist newcomers to settle into this country. Of course, she put up Black History Month programs and the Festival International, the platform for showcasing different cultures within the community.

With all these accomplishments, it was not just a library. For many, it became a sanctuary, an instant space where they could be seen and heard. Had her voice become part of shaping the Modern day framework on which libraries across Canada draw in their views on celebrating diversity?

Through her enthusiasm for books and storytelling, she made tribute to the voiceless and destined never to be forgotten.

Most newcomers also battle with reading and writing. So, she set up certain literacy programs to assist newcomers to settle into this country. Of course, she put up Black History Month programs and the Festival International, the platform for showcasing different cultures within the community. With all these accomplishments, it was not just a library. For many, it became a sanctuary-an instant space where they could be seen and heard. Had her voice become part of shaping the modern-day framework on which libraries across Canada draw in their views on celebrating diversity? Through her enthusiasm for books and storytelling, she made tribute to the voiceless and destined never to be forgotten.