Mr. Speaker, I’d like to make mention, as so many of us already know, that February is Black History Month and that 2008 marks the 175th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the British Empire.
It has been 12 years since Parliament officially recognized February as Black History Month. In a unanimously carried motion brought forward by the Hon. Jean Augustine, this month hosts activities scheduled across Canada to provide the chance to put the spotlight on the contributions made to our communities and to the country by Canadians of African and Caribbean descent.
The many nationalities that compose Canada’s Black community have been here helping pioneers. They have built and defended Canada and Canada’s society from the very beginning. From Matthieu da Costa’s arrival in the 17th century with the first European explorers to William Hall, Canada’s first Victoria Cross recipient, the impact and the contributions made to our history is untenable. It’s incredible, Mr. Speaker.
Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the long history and celebrate a heritage that has struggled, endured and certainly overcome. It is also a time for us to reaffirm our commitment to promoting respect, equality, diversity in our country.
Mr. Speaker, I invite all Members of this House and the people of the G.N.W.T. to celebrate the achievements of black Canadians and recognize the important role they have played in our national history. Their contributions have helped shape Canada’s diverse mosaic, and they have established themselves in our collective identity.
Mr. Speaker, I look forward to some day when this House will proclaim this and make this a milestone for our Territory as well.
