Embedded Files
Established in 1968, the Windsor Essex Caribbean Association (WECA) was created to unite and support members of the Caribbean community in response to widespread racial discrimination in Windsor. Originally founded as the Windsor West Indian Association, WECA provided a space for social connection, advocacy, and cultural preservation at a time when Caribbean immigrants faced exclusion from housing, jobs, and public spaces.
Today, WECA continues to celebrate Caribbean heritage, offer social supports, and advocate for the needs of the community—locally and nationally. Rooted in resilience, WECA remains dedicated to uplifting Caribbean Canadians and fostering a stronger, more inclusive society.
Our Mission
The mission of the Windsor Essex Caribbean Association (WECA) is dedicated to fostering unity, empowerment, and cultural pride within the Black and Caribbean community of Windsor-Essex. We provide culturally relevant programs, social supports, and advocacy to uplift individuals, preserve our shared heritage, and promote equity and inclusion across generations.
Our Vision
A thriving, united Black and Caribbean community in Windsor-Essex where cultural heritage is celebrated, voices are empowered, and every generation has equitable access to opportunity, belonging, and success.
Community
Our community of dedicated members, volunteers, and donors is the backbone of our organization, making it possible to offer arts and culture events and programs, foster community building, and provide access to culturally relevant skills development and training.
Our membership proudly reflects the rich diversity of the Caribbean and African diaspora, with individuals representing countries such as Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Nevis & St. Kitts, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, and Trinidad & Tobago.
We are also strengthened by our affiliations with local community organizations including the Cavaliers Cricket Club, the Rwanda Association of Canada, and the Trinidad & Tobago Associations of Windsor and Detroit—together fostering unity, cultural exchange, and collective empowerment.
Support the Windsor Essex Caribbean Centre
Your generosity helps us celebrate Caribbean culture, support community programs, and provide resources that uplift and empower people across Windsor-Essex. Every contribution—big or small—makes a lasting impact.
Donate today and help us keep our community strong, vibrant, and connected.
STAFF
Paulina O'Kieffe-Anthony.
Executive Director
Lisa Maragh-Bass.
Bartender
Board Members
Peter Thompson.
President
Vernon Strachan.
Vice-President
Terrol Findlay.
Treasurer
Juanita Ballah.
Secretary
Sharon Coburn.
Director
Augustus Robertson.
Director
Tercia Thompson.
Director
Lamar Nelson.
Director
Media
AM 800 CKLW
Over 100 people attend the kickoff event to Black History Month on Friday evening at the Caribbean Centre.
Windsor Star
An overflow crowd celebrated history, music and poetry during the Windsor-Essex County Black History Month kickoff event at the Caribbean Centre.
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