Canada’s history books often overlook the remarkable Black Canadians who helped build the nation. These individuals faced racism and systemic barriers while leaving lasting impacts in science, politics, the arts, and community life. Their stories add depth to Canadian history, revealing a legacy far more diverse than what is commonly taught.
Black Canadians have played key roles in shaping the country throughout its history, beginning in early settlement and continuing into the present. This blog post shares the stories of 10 exceptional figures whose contributions deserve wider recognition as vital parts of our shared heritage.
Mathieu Da Costa (Early 1600s)
Mathieu Da Costa worked as an interpreter for European explorers in the early 1600s. He spoke multiple languages, including Mi’kmaq, helping bridge communication between Indigenous peoples and French explorers. His linguistic skills were crucial during early contact between cultures in what would become Canada. Da Costa represents one of the earliest recorded Black presences in Canadian history.
Mary Ann Shadd Cary (1823-1893)
Mary Ann Shadd Cary launched the Provincial Freeman newspaper in Windsor, making history as the first Black woman to publish a newspaper in North America. Throughout her life, she was a strong voice for both the abolition of slavery and the advancement of women’s rights. She also opened a racially integrated school in Windsor, offering education to children of all backgrounds. Later, Shadd Cary became one of the earliest Black women to receive a law degree in the United States.
William Hall (1827-1904)
William Hall made history as the first Black person and first Nova Scotian to receive the Victoria Cross, becoming the third Canadian overall to earn the distinction. He was recognized for his bravery during the 1857 Relief of Lucknow in India. After the event, Hall continued his career in the Royal Navy for many years. His Victoria Cross is now preserved at the Nova Scotia Museum in Halifax.
John Ware (1845-1905)
John Ware transformed ranching in Alberta with his exceptional horsemanship and cattle handling skills after moving north from the United States. He developed innovative ranching techniques that helped the industry thrive in challenging western Canadian conditions. Ware earned widespread respect at a time when racial prejudice was common in the West. His legacy lives on in place names throughout southern Alberta, including Mount Ware and Ware Creek.
Viola Desmond (1914-1965)
In 1946, Viola Desmond defied racial segregation by staying in a whites-only section of a theater in Nova Scotia. Her legal battle took place nearly ten years before similar civil rights cases in the United States. She went on to run a thriving beauty business that supported and empowered the Black community. Today, her legacy is honored on Canada’s ten dollar bill as a symbol of civil rights.
Lincoln Alexander (1922-2012)
Lincoln Alexander shattered multiple racial barriers, becoming Canada’s first Black Member of Parliament in 1968. He later made history again as the first Black federal Cabinet Minister and the first Black Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. Throughout his public service, he was a strong advocate for education and youth empowerment. In recognition of his efforts against racial discrimination, January 21 is now observed nationwide as Lincoln Alexander Day.
Rosemary Brown (1930-2003)
Rosemary Brown made history as the first Black woman elected to a Canadian provincial legislature in British Columbia in 1972. She championed legislation addressing discrimination and promoting equality during her political career. Brown nearly became the leader of the federal New Democratic Party in 1975, coming second in a groundbreaking leadership bid. After politics, she continued her advocacy work with numerous national and international organizations.
Portia White (1911-1968)
Portia White overcame significant barriers to become an internationally acclaimed contralto singer from Nova Scotia. Her 1941 Toronto debut marked the beginning of a remarkable career that took her to prestigious concert halls across North America and Europe. White later taught music and mentored young performers, passing on her knowledge to future generations. The Portia White Prize remains one of Nova Scotia’s most prestigious arts awards.
Thornton and Lucie Blackburn (1812-1890, 1803-1895)
The Blackburns escaped slavery in Kentucky and established Toronto’s first taxi business after fleeing to Canada. Their dramatic escape sparked the Blackburn Riots of 1833 when American officials tried to capture them in Detroit. Their successful business employed many people and provided an essential service to the growing city. The Blackburns also helped build the Little Trinity Church and were active in helping other formerly enslaved people settle in Canada.
Herb Carnegie (1919-2012)
Herb Carnegie was a standout hockey player during an era when Black athletes were shut out of the National Hockey League. Many sports journalists and players believed he had the skill to compete at the professional level. After leaving the game, he founded the Future Aces Foundation to support youth and encourage strong values. Carnegie earned multiple hall of fame inductions and was awarded the Order of Canada for his impact on sports and education.
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