May 1, 2020 (Niagara, ON) – In partnership with Niagara’s 13 municipalities (including the Regional Municipality) and Production Service Industries (PSI) Niagara, the 2021 Canada Games Host Society will be presenting the ‘Niagara Light of Hope’ in an effort to transmit a message of hope and solidarity across the region amidst the outbreak of COVID-19.
In order to brighten up the region during this challenging period, Niagara 2021 and PSI Niagara will install a beam of light that will mark the skyline in each of Niagara’s local municipalities for one hour over a two-week period in the month of May (see below schedule for dates and locations).
“The coronavirus pandemic has created significant challenges and adversity for many across the region,” said Doug Hamilton, Board Chair of the 2021 Canada Games Host Society. “ We hope this initiative will provide some inspiration, and foster a sense of unity amongst our communities.
“We are experiencing many emotions during this time, which made this initiative an extremely important undertaking for us,” added Steven Vian, President of PSI Niagara, the official audio-visual and show supplier of the Niagara 2021 Canada Summer Games. “The multiple rays converging into one strong bright beam represents the strength of our community, and the light is our presentation of hope. Ultimately, we hope that our message will provide Niagara with a moment to pause and reflect on this difficult period, while also helping people feel encouraged about the days that lie ahead.”
The ‘Niagara Light of Hope’ will also serve as a tribute to frontline workers, who continue to work tirelessly to serve our communities in the fight against COVID-19. Thanks to the collective efforts of our first responders, health care professionals and essential workers, Niagara’s communities have been able to persevere through the current challenges.
“It is during challenging times like these that we are given the opportunity to show our support and appreciation for those who are on the frontlines, tirelessly doing their jobs to keep us all safe, healthy and fed,” said Jim Bradley, Niagara’s Regional Chair. “The Light of Hope initiative is a small way to show our gratitude, while also demonstrating that we are eternally hopeful for a brighter future.”
At the peak of Niagara’s boldest summer yet, more than 5,000 young athletes and their coaches will gather to compete for the podium in Canada’s largest multi-sport event. On its road to glory, this shining generation of hopefuls will leave its mark on our community and on the country – transforming, inspiring, and unifying us all through the power of sport.
As ambassadors of Niagara’s unrivaled warmth and compassion, thousands of volunteers will play host to the nation. The Niagara 2021 Canada Summer Games will celebrate the wonder of sport alongside arts and culture. The Games will honour our indigenous communities, and showcase a remarkable heritage of hard work and innovation in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations.
With world-renowned hospitality, the people of Niagara will welcome visitors from across the country. Spirited events, spectacular entertainment, and the theatre of elite competition will spark new energy in the region as our streets, skies, and waterways shimmer with ceremony and celebration that is befitting of Canada’s best young athletes.
From August 6th to 21st, 2021, Niagara will surge stronger than ever on the national stage. The Games will give rise to a new legacy of ambition, confidence, and compassion that will inspire generations to come. For further information, visit us at niagara2021.ca or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram (@2021canadagames).
Christopher Séguin, Media & Communications Coordinator
289.880.4005
