Dear Pawtucket Residents,

Celebrating Black History Month is something our city takes very seriously. It’s a time to reflect on the deep and lasting contributions of the Black community to Pawtucket and beyond.

More importantly, however, it’s a time to recognize and uplift the people who are making history right here in Pawtucket.

This year’s Black History Month Impact Awards were truly special. The event, graciously hosted by Mixed Magic Theatre, brought together our community to celebrate the change-makers and and everyday heroes of Pawtucket. Honoring Juan Wilson, Christian Siffrat, and Bernadet Pitts-Wiley for their leadership, creativity, and service was an incredible moment. Their work is shaping our city for the better, and I couldn’t be prouder to celebrate them.

I want to thank our Chief Equity Officer, Chachi Carvalho, for his leadership in making this event possible, and to everyone who joined us for an evening filled with inspiration and powerful performances.

Black history isn’t just something we recognize in February—it’s a vital part of our city’s identity every single day. Pawtucket is a City that lifts each other up, supports one another, and honors its diversity in everything we do.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us.

Warm regards,
Mayor Donald Grebien