Black History Month is a Time For All of us to Reflect and Celebrate
Black History Month is a time for all of us to reflect and celebrate the cultural and societal impact Black people have made throughout history. While notable figures like Martin Luther King and Malcolm X created significant strides in the civil rights movement, we tend to overlook Black Canadians who made a difference in their fields. Whether it was defying odds in a time when Black people were undermined or fighting for justice within an unjust system, the following Black Canadians and many others are worth celebrating.
Chloe Cooley – ignited the first legislation against slavery
Cooley was the catalyst to Canada’s development of the first legislation to limit slavery. As her owner threw her into a boat to be sold, Cooley resisted so strongly that it caught the attention of others surrounding and Lieutenant- Governor Simcoe at the time. After witnessing this inhumane act, Simcoe developed a legislation prohibiting the introduction of more slaves in Upper Canada. Cooley’s courage and refusal to remain silent changed the course of history. This year, Canada Post’s honoured Cooley’s contribution by creating a postage stamp with her portrait.
2. Oscar Peterson - a jazz pianist
Considered one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time, Oscar Peterson rose to the top of the music industry at a young age. Since the age of 14, he won national music competitions, went on to write records with the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, and was finally awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. A master of his craft, Peterson never let anything get in his way.
3. Lincoln Alexander - member of Parliament and Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
From his meticulous decision-making and humanitarian approach, Lincoln Alexander was the first Black Canadian who became a member of the Canadian Parliament. His resume doesn't end there - he became the first Black Federal Cabinet Minister and the first Black Chair of the Workers Compensation Board of Ontario. Throughout his work and time in reputable positions, he stood for racial equality and fair treatment of Black Canadians.
4. Fred Christie – civil rights
Fred Christie is rarely mentioned in any history book, but his civil case shed a light on the unjust system and racial segregation within the country. After waitresses in the York Tavern refused to serve Christie and his friends because they were Black, Christie sued The York Tavern for their unjust actions. Despite the courts siding with the restaurant, and Christie losing his case, Chritie's story led to an uproar across the nation.
5. Dudley Laws - civil rights activist
During the 1970s, Dudley Laws publicly criticized the Toronto police force due to the increased violence against Black men and racially biased actions towards the Black community. As the executive director of the Black Action Defence Committee, Laws gave a voice to the Black and marginalized community when no one would listen. As a fierce advocate for the civil rights movement, Laws shined a light on important issues throughout his career.
6. Willie O’Ree - NHL player
As the first Black person in the NHL, Willie was determined to defy all odds to fulfil his dreams. Growing up in a segregated community, he decided that racial discrimination would not stop him from joining the NHL. Finally, in 1958, he joined the NHL and the rest was history. Due to his skill and his ability to overcome barriers, he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.
7. Rosemary Brown - politician
Brown became the first Black woman elected to a provincial government, proving that anything is possible. In overcoming racism and adversity due to her skin colour, Brown became a leading advocate for Black people, championing human rights, equitable housing and fair employment opportunities.
8. Eleanor Collins - musician and television show host
Collins was the first Black Canadian woman to have a show on national television. As a gifted musician, she became the first person of colour to host a show in North America. This gave Collins even more exposure and recognition. With her platform, she fought for equality and became a civic leader in the Canadian music industry.
9. Afua Cooper - historian, poet, and author.
Known for incorporating African rhythm into her poetry and emulating African culture and history in her work, Cooper's work is meant to educate and inspire others. After completing her Ph.D. in African -Canadian studies, she is currently a professor at TMU.
10. Clotilda Adessa Yakimchuk – healthcare provider
As the first Black graduate from the Nova Scotia Hospital School of Nursing, Yakimchuk broke all barriers in her way. Yakimchuk went on to serve as the President of the Registered Nurses Association of Nova Scotia and the Director of Education Services at Cape Brenton Regional Hospital. She was an exceptional professional in her field and became a role model for many aspiring nurses and people of Colour looking to enter the healthcare field.
There is an endless number of Black Canadians who trailblazed and inspired others. As Black History Month is upon us, I encourage you to continue to learn, reflect and remember those who made significant contributions and changed the course of history.
The blog is curated by Colleen James, Principal and Founder of Divonify Incorporated. Colleen’s work is centered around the dismantling of oppressive systems by working with organizational leaders to address issues of systemic racism, equity, diversity and inclusion. If you enjoyed this blog, please share with others you feel would gain value from it.