CANADIAN CONGRESS COMMEMORATES THE START OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH: HONOURING THE HON. (DR) JEAN AUGUSTINE – THE MATRIARCH OF BLACKS IN CANADA & BEYOND

As we mark the commencement of Black History Month, I wish to take this moment to pay tribute to the Hon. (Dr.) Jean Augustine , the extraordinary woman I affectionately refer to as Mama Jean.

Having had the privilege of knowing her for nearly three decades, I have admired many facets of her character and gleaned valuable lessons from her.

Undoubtedly, countless individuals, numbering in the thousands if not millions share a similar sentiment owing to her boundless generosity, gracious hospitality, and steadfast humility.

As a national icon, a global stateswoman, an advocate for millions, and a voice for everyone, it has been my utmost privilege to journey alongside Hon. Jean Augustine. I have shared moments with Mama Jean at airports and on planes, chauffeured her to receive honorary doctorate degrees, and been honoured to accompany her to events at the parliament.

Born on September 9, 1937, Jean Augustine PC CM OOnt CBE is a Canadian politician originally from Grenada. Renowned for her trailblazing achievements, she holds the distinction of being the first Black Canadian woman to hold the position of federal Minister of the Crown and Member of Parliament.

Hon. (Dr.) Jean Augustine and Senator Mary Jane McCallum received the Nation Builders Award from the Canadian Congress on Inclusive Diversity & Workplace Equity in Oct 2023.

Between 1993 and 2006, Jean Augustine represented the district of Etobicoke—Lakeshore in Toronto, Ontario, as a Liberal member of the House of Commons of Canada. Her political career also saw her assume the role of Minister of State for Multiculturalism and the Status of Women in the Canadian Cabinet from 2002 to 2004. Additionally, she served as the Parliamentary Secretary to Prime Minister Jean Chrétien from 1994 to 1996. Before entering politics, she held the position of a school principal.

Hon. (Dr.) Jean Augustine with President Barrack Obama.

Post her parliamentary tenure, from 2007 to 2015, Jean Augustine made history again as the inaugural Fairness Commissioner of Ontario. Since her retirement, she has continued to contribute to society by serving as the patron of various non-profit organizations across Canada.

Public parks, schools, streets, and buildings stand as enduring tributes to her legacy. In 1995, within the hallowed halls of the Parliament of Canada, she championed the motion for the recognition of Black History Month in the country. This initiative was born from the proposal of Dr. Rosemary Sadlier and received unwavering support from Senator Don Oliver, both of whom I am privileged to consider my friends and family.

Hon. (Dr.) Jean Augustine with former Prime Ministers of Canada, Jean Chretien and Paul Martin.

Mama Jean, as we commemorate the start of Black History Month 2024, we honour you for your exceptional leadership. Your grace, and intellectual brilliance in the realm of social justice advocacy are truly commendable.

Your boundless love for humanity, encompassing everyone, is a beacon of inspiration. Above all, I extend my deepest gratitude for welcoming me into your life as a son, a protégé, and a friend.

Mama Jean, it is both a privilege and an honour to experience your love, serve you and contribute to your enduring legacy. Wishing you a joyous Black History Month, Mama Jean.

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