Mr. Speaker, this weekend saw the passing of two public figures, both known as passionate fighters, each in his respective rings and arenas. Strong minded and passionate, both fought for their communities and both addressed issues in the broader civil society. One of these figures was the world renowned boxer, Muhammad Ali.
The other was a fighter and a hero to many throughout British Columbia, and indeed left a lasting impression on all Canadians, Len Marchand. Len was born in Vernon, B.C., a member of the Okanagan Indian Band. As our Prime Minister has so aptly put it, Canada has lost a trailblazer.
Beginning his long career in federal politics as a staffer in 1965, Len became a special assistant to ministers within the ministry of Indian Affairs. In the 1968 general election, underestimated and against huge odds, Len was elected to the House, making him the very first status Indian to join Parliament. He served as the minister of small business and the minister of the environment, and ended his political career serving in the Senate for four years. He was a leader who stood tall and would never fail in the tasks ahead of him.
Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of this great role model and great Canadian.