January 21 is Lincoln Alexander Day across Canada. The national day of recognition celebrates the life and accomplishments of the Honourable Lincoln Alexander, and has been marked every year since 2015.
Lincoln Alexander was the first Black Canadian member of Parliament, among many other ‘firsts’. He was also a cabinet minister and a Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario. Lincoln Alexander was a trailblazer who championed racial equality and justice. He was born in Toronto on January 21, 1922, but is known as one of Hamilton’s most notable citizens, where there is a highway named after him. He passed away on October 19, 2012.
This day is an opportunity to learn more about the significant role that Black Canadians have made and continue to make in shaping Canada, as well as to celebrate their tremendous contributions as we prepare for Black History Month in February.