Celebrating Black History Month

Thank you for that introduction.                                                
I am honoured to join you today to mark Black History Month and pay tribute to the contributions and rich heritage of Canadians of African descent.  
On behalf of the Government of Canada and Jason Kenney, the Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I would like to thank members of the African-Canadian Association of Waterloo Region and Area &  the African Women's Alliance of Waterloo Region.                     
Through your dedicated efforts, you continue to show how African-Canadian culture has helped to build and strengthen communities in Canada.    
Ladies and gentlemen, Canada is a great success story of pluralism and diversity. It is contributions such as yours that help make that story even greater.                                                                                                   
Black History Month not only advances education and recognition of black history, but also promotes Canada's tradition of cultural diversity, reflecting our unique stories while celebrating our common national identity.                                                          
It is an opportunity for members of the black community to share with all Canadians the events that have marked your collective history.                                                                                       
At the same time, we recognize the efforts of men and women who display the best of the values that Canadians cherish - freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.                              
Last week, we witnessed a historic milestone for all black people - the inauguration of President Barack Obama in the United States.                                                                              
Of course, Canada already has a prominent black leader in our Governor General, Her Excellency, the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean.                                                                            
Indeed, Canada's first black representative of the Queen received his office as long ago as 1985, when Prime Minister Mulroney named Lincoln Alexander as Lieutetant Governor of Ontario. Representing Hamilton West, he become the first black Member of Parliament in 1968.                                                                         
The events in Washington remind us that we should continue to mark the substantial impact that the black community has had in this country.                                                                                   
That is why, for Black History Month this year, the Government of Canada is highlighting the contributions that black Canadians have made in our military and in sports.                                            
And it is why we are holding a one-day session in Ottawa to help a new generation of administrators learn the skills and knowledge they need to carry on the management of museums that preserve and promote Black Canadian heritage.                                           
 
I hope that all Canadians will see Black History Month as a chance to recognize and celebrate the many contributions that Black Canadians have made to Canada. It also presents us with an opportunity to learn more about the black community's role in our heritage and our shared history.                                                
Thank you.