Proclamations and Lighting

Event Date:

Month of January

Lighting Dates:

January 6-February 2

Lighting Colour:

Blue

Meaning: 

January is Alzheimer Awareness Month across the nation and it is during this time of the year that the Alzheimer Society launches a public awareness campaign. Help us remove the stigma of this disease as a community.

Every 3 seconds, someone in the world develops dementia. By 2050, nearly 1.7 MILLION Canadians will be living with dementia. Locally, over 5000 people are estimated to be affected, excluding the thousands of family members who provide direct care.

The Alzheimer Society raises general awareness of dementia in the public, identifies warning signs and stresses the importance of early diagnosis while offering support and programs for those living the dementia journey. The Society provides FREE navigation, education, support, and resources to all those affected by all forms of memory loss, and their care partners.

Event Date:

January 22

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

n/a

Meaning: 

Event Date:

January 26

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

Blue

Meaning: 

Kawasaki Disease is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children and affects children around the globe. Early diagnosis is a matter of life or death and/or lifelong coronary distress. Early detection is critical; increased awareness of early symptoms is imperative to diagnosis and effective treatment. We want Kawasaki disease to be top of mind of Canadians and for us to increase awareness and save children's hearts from the effects of Kawasaki disease WHEREAS, Kawasaki Disease Canada is the only Canadian national charity working to improve outcomes of Kawasaki disease and at the forefront of Kawasaki disease issues by collaborating with families affected by the disease and medical professionals. January 26 is the anniversary of the day in 1961 that Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki began to recognize a cluster of symptoms that led to the classification "Kawasaki disease". It has been more than 50 years, the cause of the disease is still unknown. Increased awareness is imperative. Kawasaki Disease Canada supports international partners in the quest to increase awareness and is pursuing this proclamation across Canada.

Event Date:

Month of February

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

n/a

Meaning: 

Event Date:

February 11

Lighting Dates:

February 10-16

Lighting Colour:

Red

Meaning: 

Event Date:

February 17-23

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

n/a

Meaning: 

Event Date:

February 17-23

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

n/a

Event Date:

February 22

Lighting Dates:

February 17-23

Lighting Colour:

Blue and Yellow

Meaning: 

The Coldest Night of the Year is a winterrific family-friendly fundraising walk in support of local charities. Here in Belleville, The Grace Inn Shelter is host to this important event.

Grace Inn is the first homeless shelter of its kind serving Belleville and the surrounding area and offering 21-bed spaces to men and women 365 days a year. This February 22nd the community will come together in support of those who are experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness. Thank you to everyone's generous support."

Event Date:

February 28

Lighting Dates:

February 24-Mar 2

Lighting Colour:

Blue, Pink, Green

Meaning: 

Rare Disease Day is the globally-coordinated movement on rare diseases, working towards equity in social opportunity, healthcare, and access to diagnosis and therapies for people living with a rare disease. Since its creation in 2008, Rare Disease Day has played a critical part in building an international rare disease community that is multi-disease, global, and diverse– but united in purpose. Rare Disease Day is observed every year on 28 February (or 29 in leap years)—the rarest day of the year.

The Rare Disease Day colours have come to symbolize the diversity of the rare disease community across borders; there are over 300 million people living with one of over 6000 different rare diseases. By using the Rare Disease Day colours to light up well-known monuments and public buildings the diverse rare disease community spread around the world joined together to share a strong message of solidarity.

Event Date:

March

Lighting Dates:

March 10-16

Lighting Colour:

Red

Meaning: 

Amyloidosis Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness of amyloidosis, a group of diseases that occur when an abnormal protein builds up in the body's tissues and organs.

Amyloidosis can be challenging to diagnose and can mimic the signs and symptoms of more common medical conditions.

It often affects people who are older or middle aged, but younger people have also been diagnosed

Event Date:

March

Lighting Dates:

March 3-9

Lighting Colour:

Blue

Meaning: 

Event Date:

March

Lighting Dates:

March 24-30

Lighting Colour:

Yellow

Meaning: 

March is also *Endometriosis Awareness Month. Approximately 1 in 10 girls and women, as well as unmeasured numbers of non-binary and transgender individuals, will develop endometriosis. Due to a lack of awareness and education, it takes between 7 to 12 years to get a diagnosis.

Event Date:

March 3-9

Lighting Dates:

March 3-9

Lighting Colour:

Blue

Meaning: 

WHEREAS, the lives of many citizens of the City of Belleville have been directly or indirectly impacted by the ravages of violence; and

WHEREAS, many Canadians fall prey to senseless acts of violence every year and this violence can happen in our homes, schools and our local communities; and

WHEREAS, by the time a child graduates from high school, they would have seen an estimated 16,000 televised and social media shootings and overall 300,000 acts of violence; and

WHEREAS, the prevalence of violence in our society makes victims of us all; and

WHEREAS, RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS must prevail and overcome random acts of violence; Therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the City of Belleville declare the week of March 3 to 9, 2025 to be the 29th Annual Violence Awareness & Random Acts of Kindness Week;

and be it further

RESOLVED, that the citizens of the City of Belleville are encouraged to continue to support and embrace the ideology and practice of Random Acts of Kindness not only during this special week but throughout the year.

Event Date:

March 26

Lighting Dates:

March 17-23

Lighting Colour:

Purple

Meaning:

Whereas Epilepsy South Eastern Ontario is promoting National Epilepsy Awareness Day;

AND Whereas Epilepsy South Eastern Ontario is a registered charity, providing support services to people with epilepsy and their families, and community education services to reduce the stigma associated with the disorder;

AND Whereas epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder with no cure, which is frequently seriously disabling;

AND Whereas epilepsy profoundly affects the quality of life of over 4,500 individuals and their families in our community and surrounding rural areas;

AND Whereas citizens are encouraged to make an effort this month to learn more about epilepsy, fight stigma, and wear a lavender ribbon to show support.

Event Date:

April

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

n/a

Meaning:

The City of Belleville recognizes April 2025 as Jazz Appreciation Month. Many downtown venues will be hosting Jazz events for our jazz loving citizens to attend to hear our local artists. The American Federation of Musicians, local 518, The Quinte Arts Council and our own Downtown BIA have joined together to make this month a celebration in Jazz.

Event Date:

April

Lighting Dates:

April 21-27

Lighting Colour:

Teal

Meaning:

April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to honour and celebrate the resilience, strength, and sacrifices of children in military families. These children face unique challenges, such as frequent relocations and long separations from loved ones due to deployments or military duty. They are constantly adjusting to new schools, communities, and environments. Despite these challenges, they show incredible courage, adaptability, and strength.

On April 28th, we observe Teal Up Day, a day dedicated to making military children feel seen, valued, and appreciated. The day is focused on honouring the kids who support their families through thick and thin, and who often carry a heavy emotional load as a result of military life. Across Canada, communities mark the occasion by wearing teal, as well as lighting up landmarks like the CN Tower in Toronto in solidarity.

This year, a growing number of communities will “light up” in teal to raise awareness. Bringing the celebration to a close, the Trenton MFRC is proudly hosting a ceremony and BBQ for these extraordinary children.

Event Date:

April 2

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

Green

Meaning:

A Proclamation on World Autism Day 2025

Event Date:

April 4-10

Lighting Dates:

April 7-13

Lighting Colour:

Purple

Meaning:

National Dental Hygienists Week™ is celebrated annually, highlighting the importance of maintaining good oral health practices while helping Canadians to understand the vital role those dental hygienists play in the health care system. Our theme "Oral Health for Total Health," reminds us that taking care of our mouth, teeth, and gums positively impacts other aspects of our lives.

Event Date:

April 7

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

Green

Meaning:

In Recognition of Green Shirt Day, April 7th, 2025 and Be a Donor Month, April 2025

Whereas Green Shirt Day is observed to honour and recognize Logan Boulet, (who gave the gift of life to 6 others through organ donation), as well as all the other victims, survivors, and families of the deadly Humbolt Broncos bus crash in April 2018 , and is an integral part of the larger BeADonor month activities and

Whereas, local Transplant Advocate Association (TAA) volunteers are dedicated to creating awareness throughout local communities, of the need for organ & tissue donation, and to supporting both pre- and post-transplant recipients, donors, and their families, and

Whereas Logan’s gifts inspired thousands of people to register, however, despite the increased number of donors, many Canadians still need organ or tissue transplants and many die waiting each year, and

Whereas the TAA, in partnership with the Trillium Gift of Life Network, and the Canadian Transplant Association, continue to carry on Logan’s legacy by encouraging people to register consent to be an organ and tissue donor, and to discuss their wishes with family

Event Date:

April 9

Lighting Dates:

March 31-April 6

Lighting Colour:

Green

Meaning:

WHEREAS, Global Holistic Wealth Day is celebrated annually during the week of April 9th; and

WHEREAS, Global Holistic Wealth Day has the goal of raising awareness about the importance of holistic wealth in our communities, which encompasses financial wellness, physical well-being, and emotional well-being; and

WHEREAS, Global Holistic Wealth Day calls upon citizens to engage in reflection, education, and action to cultivate a lifestyle of well-being, including mental health, to empower personal growth, and to engage in activities that support financial literacy; and

WHEREAS, Global Holistic Wealth Day will raise awareness, instill civic pride, and celebrate holistic wealth in the city of Belleville;

THEREFORE, I, Mayor of the City of , do hereby proclaim April, 9th to 16th, 2025 Global Holistic Wealth Day in Belleville.

Event Date:

April 14

Lighting Dates:

April 14-20

Lighting Colour:

Purple

Meaning:

Event Date:

April 19

Lighting Dates:

Lighting Colour:

Pink

Meaning:

WHEREAS: One in every 2,500 pregnancies are diagnosed with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH); and

WHEREAS: Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia occurs when a baby’s diaphragm fails to fully form; allowing abdominal organs into the chest cavity and preventing lung growth; and

WHEREAS: Since 2000, it is estimated that over 700,000 babies have been born with CDH; however, only 50 percent of those babies survived; and

WHEREAS: CDH is as common as Spina Bifida and Cystic Fibrosis; however, very few people know about it or are aware of it; and

WHEREAS: There are many people living in Canada who have been diagnosed with and have survived their CDH, although many families in Canada have endured the horrible pain and grief associated with the loss of loved ones with CDH; and

WHEREAS: CDH International is a charity is a 501(c)III organization that was created to help families affected by CDH; and

WHEREAS: Those with CDH often endure multiple surgeries and possible medical complications beyond their diagnosis that include heart defects, pulmonary complications, gastric and intestinal problems, developmental delays, and may require respiratory and medicinal support for years; and

WHEREAS: Raising awareness of this congenital defect will help bring about acceptance and support for those suffering with it and will help advocate for urgently needed medical research and advances.

NOW, Therefore, I, do hereby proclaim April 19th, 2025, to be

Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Awareness Month

In The City of Belleville and encourage all the citizens of Illinois to take cognizance of this event and to participate fittingly in this observance.

Event Date:

May

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

Blue and Green

Meaning:

WHEREAS: Community Living Belleville and Area has provided supports and services to adults, youth and children with intellectual disabilities and their families in the City of Belleville and Area since 1951; and,

WHEREAS: Community Living Belleville and Area exists to provide quality supports to people with intellectual disabilities; and to facilitate their full inclusion in community life; and also to educate the larger community; and advocate wherever necessary; and,

WHEREAS: Community Living Belleville and Area works with the City of Belleville, volunteers and other groups and organizations to build a community of inclusion, equality and respect that celebrates the contributions of all citizens; and,

WHEREAS: Community Living Belleville and Area is an Affiliate Member of

Community Living Ontario; and,

WHEREAS: Community Living Month is a province-wide initiative created to celebrate the philosophy and values of community living; and,

WHEREAS: Community Living Month will launch on May 1 with a banner unveiling under the lower bridge; and,

THEREFORE, I, Mayor Neil Ellis, on behalf of the City of Belleville, proclaim May 2025 to be "Community Living Month" in the City of Belleville.

Event Date:

May

Lighting Dates:

May 26-June 1

Lighting Colour:

Green

Meaning:

Whereas Huntington Disease is a genetic brain disorder with physical, mental, and emotional symptoms. It is often described as having ALS, Parkinson's, Schizophrenia, and Alzheimer’s all at the same time. And, unfortunately, there is no known cure.

Each child of a parent with this disease has a 50% chance of having the gene mutation that leads to the progression of Huntington disease. Juvenile Huntington Disease occurs when it appears in someone under the age of 20.

1 in every 7000 Canadians has the disease and approximately 1 in every 5500 is at risk for developing the disease. Many more are touched by Huntington Disease as a caregiver, family member, or friend.

In support of Light It Up 4 HD campaign, the Belleville Sign, Bridge St Bridge, and Fire Station #1 Memorial Garden will be lit blue and purple from May 26-June 1.

Event Date:

May

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

Blue

Meaning:

May marks Sexual Violence Prevention Month. During this month we acknowledge the courage of survivors, honor their voices and commit to creating a community free from sexual violence. The Sexual Assault Centre for Quinte & District invites survivors, community members, and those in positions of power to recognize this month and take action to prevent sexual violence and support those who are affected by it.

Event Date:

May

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

n/a

Meaning:

WHEREAS It is imperative that communities across Canada be reminded of the importance of sun safety;

AND WHEREAS Over-exposure to UV radiation is one of the major causes of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers;

AND WHEREAS Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. 1 in 6 Canadians born in the 1990s will get skin cancer in their lifetimes;

AND WHEREAS Many people seek sun without taking the advisable precautionary measures and are unaware that any darkening of skin colour, including a tan, is indicative of UV damage;

AND WHEREAS Skin self-examinations should be performed on a monthly basis because skin cancers are highly treatable when detected early;

AND WHEREAS Save Your Skin Foundation is dedicated to the fight against non-melanoma skin cancers, melanoma and ocular melanoma through nationwide education, advocacy, and awareness initiatives:

NOW THEREFORE I, Neil Ellis, Mayor of Belleville, do hereby proclaim May 2025, as “Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month” in Belleville.

Event Date:

May 1-7

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

n/a

Meaning:

In recognition of youth and their positive contributions to the community, the City of Belleville hereby proclaims May 1-7 as National Youth Week. The City of Belleville and the City's Youth Engagement Committee are proud to celebrate National Youth Week with various youth activities. For more information, visit www.belleville.ca/BYEC

Event Date:

May 8

Lighting Dates:

April 14-20

Lighting Colour:

Red and White

Meaning:

WHEREAS, on May 8, 1945, Allied forces achieved victory in Europe, marking the end of nearly six years of devastating conflict on the continent and securing peace for future generations; and

WHEREAS, the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day is an opportunity to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of the men and women who served in the Canadian Armed Forces, those who contributed on the home front, and the countless individuals who endured the hardships of war; and

WHEREAS, Canada played a significant role in the Second World War, with over one million Canadians serving in uniform and many making the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of peace, freedom, and democracy; and

WHEREAS, Veterans Affairs Canada is leading a national lighting campaign to commemorate this historic milestone, encouraging communities across the country to illuminate landmarks in red and white as a tribute to our veterans and to the enduring spirit of remembrance; and

WHEREAS, Signature in Canada events will be held in Toronto on the evening of May 8, 2025, as part of the nationwide commemoration, with the CN Tower and other national landmarks lit to symbolize the unity and gratitude of a nation remembering its heroes;

NOW, THEREFORE, I do hereby proclaim May 8, 2025, as Victory in Europe (VE) Day in recognition of the 80th anniversary of this historic event. I encourage all citizens to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made, to participate in commemorative activities, and to express their gratitude to our veterans and their families for their service and dedication.

Event Date:

May 10

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

Purple

Meaning:

Fibromyalgia Awareness Day

Event Date:

May 12

Lighting Dates:

May 19-25

Lighting Colour:

Purple

Meaning:

WHEREAS; Fibromyalgia (FM) is a complex illness whose symptoms vary widely and may include debilitating chronic pain, overwhelming fatigue, and cognitive impairment; and;

WHEREAS; There is no known cause of, or cure for fibromyalgia; and;

WHEREAS; Fibromyalgia Awareness Day is an opportunity to raise awareness and to show support for those living with FM and their families; and;

WHEREAS; Fibromyalgia Association Canada is the only national organization in Canada that supports both FM research and services for people with FM and their families; and;

WHEREAS; Fibromyalgia affects about 5% of Canada’s population, which is over 2,000,000 men, women, and children of all ages and races are afflicted with this chronic illness; and;

WHEREAS; People with FM have a right to be treated with dignity and have a right to pain relief.

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) Awareness Day

Event Date:

May 12

Lighting Dates:

April 28-May 4

Lighting Colour:

Yellow and Green

Meaning:

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is a recognized medical disability, where over 1.1 million people have a diagnosis, of which 419,000 (3.3%) are in Ontario alone (Statistics Canada 2020). It can develop in individuals of all ages, triggered by either a single significant exposure or repeated low-level exposures to common environmental chemicals. Sensitization leads to reactions to various substances in everyday environments, including scented products, cleaning items, paints, petrochemicals, cigarette smoke, pesticides, and more. Despite a significant number of highly educated individuals experiencing MCS, sufferers often face challenges like job loss, poverty, inadequate medical and social support, stigmatization, isolation, and even homelessness.

World Falun Dafa Day

Event Date:

May 13

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

n/a

Meaning:

WHEREAS, Falun Dafa also known as Falun Gong is an advanced cultivation practice system for mind, body, and spirit based on the principle of Truthfulness Compassion Forbearance; and

WHEREAS, Falun Dafa was first introduced to the world in 1992 by Mr. Li Hongzhi; and has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to improving health in mind body and spirit, and to enhancing the well-being of people from all walks of society, who follow its tenets; and

WHEREAS, the physical and spiritual benefits of Falun Dafa have led to its spread throughout 114 countries with over 100 million practitioners; and

WHEREAS, the great compassion and forbearance demonstrated by Falun Dafa practitioners have touched the hearts of kind-hearted people all over the world; and

WHEREAS, this year, 2025, marks the 26th year of peaceful appeals and worldwide efforts of ending the Communist Regime’s brutal persecution of Falun Dafa practitioners in China; and

Therefore I, Mayor and the city council, hereby proclaim May 13th, 2025 to be Falun Dafa Day, honoring Truthfulness Compassion Forbearance.

International Museum Day

Event Date:

May 18

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

n/a

Meaning:

The City of Belleville’s Glanmore National Historic Site, part of the Community Services Department, is celebrating May is Museum Month and International Museum Day with an open house and offering free admission on May 18, 2025, from Noon to 4 p.m. On this special day, Glanmore is one of more than 37,000 museums worldwide celebrating International Museum Day which recognizes the pivotal role museums play in learning, innovation, and knowledge sharing!

Porphyria Awareness Day

Event Date:

May 18

Lighting Dates:

May 12-18

Lighting Colour:

Purple

Meaning:

Global Porphyria Day is organized by the Global Porphyria Advocacy Coalition (GPAC) and its members. We are the Canadian member of GPAC and are a registered charity.

Porphyria is a group of rare blood disorders that have a wide range of symptoms. It can take years or even decades to get a diagnosis, and during that time patients suffer with strange symptoms. They may be told that their symptoms are “all in their head” while they suffer from, among other things, unbearable abdominal pain, or feel like their skin is on fire when exposed to sunlight.

Global Porphyria Day (previously International Porphyria Awareness Week) aims to raise awareness of porphyria, and advocate for access to care and treatment for porphyria patients around the world. This year we are lighting the world purple for porphyria.

More information about Global Porphyria Day is available at porphyriacanada.ca/events

We are a non profit patient support organization, we help support Canadian's with porphyria and their families all over including Belleville.

We want our porphyria community to see the awareness spread on Global Porphyria Awareness Day and feel less alone in this isolating disorder.

* pronounced “por-fear-E-uh”

Victorian Order of Nurses Week

Event Date:

May 18-24

Lighting Dates:

n/a

Lighting Colour:

Blue

Meaning:

Whereas, the Victorian Order of Nurses for Canada is a charitable, community-based healthcare organization that has addressed community health and social needs for 128 years.

Whereas, VON – HASTINGS NORTHUMBERLAND, PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY nurses, home support workers, community service coordinators, and many other staff and volunteers have been caring for the lives and well-being of residents of The City of Belleville; and VON’s nursing, health promotion and support services make a contribution to the healthcare system in Ontario.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that I, Neil Ellis Mayor of the City of Belleville hereby proclaim May 18-24, 2025 as VON Week here in The City of Belleville.

I would like to encourage all residents of the City of Belleville to support VON and our community by sharing positive messages and financially supporting VON – Hastings Northumberland and Prince Edward County’s charitable programs.