Mr. Speaker, February is Black History Month and I would like to draw to the attention of the House the unique accomplishments of the black Canadians in Nova Scotia.
The black community in Nova Scotia has strong roots. In fact Sydney, Nova Scotia is the site of one of the first black settlements in Canada, Whitney Pier.
The first Nova Scotian to win a Victoria Cross was William Hall, a black sailor from King's county. This is the highest military honour in the British Empire.
The son of freed slaves, William Hall joined the royal navy. He served in India where he was cited for his heroic actions. Hall's ship came to the relief of a besieged garrison and, despite taking heavy enemy fire that killed or wounded the rest of his crew, he continued firing cannons until the walls were breached. For this, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
The accomplishments of black Nova Scotians is a testament to their vital contribution to our history.