FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Portland, Oregon - September 12, 2023  - Mayor Canniff of Chatham-Kent, Ontario, proudly recognized Donna Stoney, Founder of the International Association of BIPOC Winemakers (IABWM) and Stoney Wines, during the Canadian Buxton Homecoming Labor Day celebrations last week. This honor is in recognition of Donna Stoney's efforts to the wine industry and her dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity in winemaking around the world.

The announcement was made during a special presentation that took place at the Buxton National Historic Site and Museum on Monday morning, where Mayor Canniff acknowledged Donna Stoney's achievement in officially establishing the first dedicated association that will specifically measure the number of BIPOC Winemakers around the world and work to help increase their growth, exposure, and opportunities internationally.

The recognition ceremony lasted for 30 minutes, with 5 minutes dedicated to the presentation honoring Donna Stoney. The event aimed to utilize the IABWM's reach to amplify the significance of the Homecoming event and its role in fostering unity and cultural exchange.

Donna Stoney, highlighted the importance of the Homecoming event over the last 100 years in her address and expressed her desire that in the future it will become a destination for black leaders and professionals to convene for business and celebrate their own rich history. She emphasized the role of black leaders, including herself, in investing their time and resources to promote the Homecoming and its underlying message of unity and cultural celebration.

Speaking about the event and her involvement, Donna Stoney shared, "The whole reason I am here in Chatham-Kent is to help bring awareness to important events and missions that promote the BIPOC community. It all started with a conversation with Amy Wilcox from the town, who introduced us to Homecoming. I was immediately drawn to the idea of hosting International Conferences here in the future."

The presentation of this recognition serves as a testament to the collaborative spirit of individuals and organizations working together to uplift the Chatham-Kent community. It reflects the shared goal of promoting diversity, inclusivity, and the importance of events like Homecoming.

Mayor Canniff expressed his gratitude for Donna Stoney's involvement and the support she brings to the Homecoming event. "Donna Stoney is a remarkable individual who embodies the spirit of unity and community engagement. Her dedication to the IABWM and her future plans to bring BIPOC winemakers from around the world to Chatham-Kent is warmly welcomed. We are honored to recognize her today and excited to work together in the future," Mayor Canniff said.

For more information about Donna Stoney, the IABWM, and the Buxton Homecoming event, please contact:

Sierra Scott

[email protected]

1.855.355.4482

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About Donna Stoney:

Donna Stoney is the Founder of the International Association of BIPOC Winemakers (IABWM) and Stoney Wines. She is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the winemaking industry and supporting community events like the Buxton Homecoming. Learn more about IABWM at https://www.iabwm.org/ 

About Buxton Homecoming:

The Buxton Homecoming is an annual celebration held in Chatham-Kent, Ontario ,that is a poignant celebration of family, friends, and heritage, honoring the legacy of African Canadians and Americans who fought for freedom via the Underground Railroad. Initiated in 1924, it reunites former residents from both sides of the border. Learn more at: https://100thhomecoming.com/