Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to rise today in honour of the important role black Canadians have played in our nation's history.
During black history month we can all feel proud of the contributions made by black Canadians in every sphere of Canadian life.
In 1793 Upper Canada's first lieutenant governor, John Graves Simcoe, helped to free black slaves living in Upper Canada. In time this brave act would clear the way for people like Lincoln Alexander, Ontario's first black lieutenant governor in 1985.
By honouring the achievements of black Canadians, the House has given all Canadians a greater understanding of the richness of black history.