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It’s I Love to Read and Black History Month

February 1, 2023
Devon and Pearlene Clunis reading their book "The Little Boy from Jamaica" to WSD Students

More than 100 Grade 3 students from across Winnipeg School Division (WSD) were joined by Devon and Pearlene Clunis at the Manitoba Children’s Museum on Feb. 1 to kick off “I Love to Read” and “Black History” month. 

“Learning to read and enjoying a good story are important foundations for a child’s education,” says Pauline Clarke, Chief Superintendent and CEO, Winnipeg School Division. “I Love to Read month activities provide students a greater focus on their literacy skills and fostering a love of reading both at school and in the community.”

February is also Black History Month, a time for celebrating the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians. During today’s event, Devon, the first Black Canadian ever appointed as a police chief in Canada,  and Pearlene, an international award-winning fashion designer, read from their book “The little boy from Jamaica” to students from five elementary schools in WSD. The reading was followed by a conversation with the children about diversity and inclusion. After the reading, students explored the 13 galleries offered at the Children’s Museum.

“We are passionate about diversity, equity and inclusion,” says Devon Clunis. “Our children’s books are written to help address the contemporary social issues of our time and create a more caring, compassionate and culturally sensitive future generation.”

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Devon Clunis is a Canadian law enforcement officer who was the chief of the Winnipeg Police Service from 2012 until his retirement in 2016. Pearlene Clunis owned her own business and, throughout her career in the fashion industry, grew passionate about women’s rights and the need to advocate on behalf of vulnerable and exploited women. This has become a significant part of Pearlene Clunis’ purpose as she strives to build a culturally diverse and inclusive society.


Students at the kick-off enjoyed the reading and the opportunity to ask the Clunis’ questions about their stories and lives. Following the presentation and book reading, students spent time experiencing the galleries throughout the museum.


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