Mr. Speaker, it was a great honour for me to attend a reception last night celebrating Black History Month and the achievements of Canada's black community, hosted by the leader of the official opposition at his home. As far as we know, this is the first time that a Black History Month reception has been hosted at Stornoway by any leader of any party. Various members of Parliament and leaders from the black community gathered, along with our leader and his family, to build relationships and discuss important issues.
I want to particularly recognize Emmanuel and Mariama Bayo and the member for Tobique—Mactaquac for their leadership on this event, as well as the work done by staff, especially Jesus Bondo and Anton Sestritsyn.
Black Canadians are an integral part of our Conservative family, including current and former staff, former candidates and nomination candidates like Abdul Abdi, Denise Siele and Toyin Crandell, elected provincial Conservatives such as Minister Kaycee Madu in Alberta and soon-to-be elected provincial Conservatives like Patrick Mayangi in Ottawa—Vanier.
We have more work to do to build and strengthen the relationship between the black community and the Conservative Party. Last night was another big step forward.