Lincoln Alexander ( Jan 21, 1922 -Oct 19, 2012) holds the distinct honour of being the first black Member Of Parliament in the House Of Commons, opening doors that helped advance the progress of many people of colour who came after him.
Of course, that's not all there is to the man, but this distinction came at a time when racial prejuidice was still prevalent in Canada and Alexander definitely "shattered some barriers"!
In his first speech as an elected official Alexander said "I am not the spokesman for the Negro; that honour has not been given to me. Do not let me ever give anyone that impression. However, I want the record to show that I accept the responsibility of speaking for him and all others in this great nation who feel that they are the subjects of discrimination because of race, creed or colour."
Alexander came from a humble background but learned to "walk tall" and chose to work hard to excel. He joined the Canadian military in 1942, becoming a wireless operator, then used his veteran's grant after the war to enter college and earn credits that enabled him to enrol at university. He did well but soon realized that there weren't many opportunities for an educated black man in Canada, so he returned to university and studied law, allowing for "self employment".
Of course, racism and prejuidice still made life difficult but he persevered, joining forces with others who were suffering the same indignities. He practiced law with a firm run by a Polish immigrant brother and sister team, work which eventually forged some bonds in the community they served and ultimately helped him to win a seat in the 1968 Federal election.
Alexander was the first black Member of Parliament and also went on to become the first black Cabinet Minister. He also served as the first black Chair of the Worker's Compensation Board, became the first black Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and also served five terms as the Chancellor of The University of Guelph.
Lincoln Alexander was an accomplished man indeed and Canada is fortunate to have had his influence and service to make Canada a better country.
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