Mayor Bevilacqua meets with Hon. Jean Augustine
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Sharing Vaughan’s priorities on multiculturalism, diversity
Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua issued the following statement after meeting with Hon. Jean Augustine:
“I was pleased to welcome the Honourable Jean Augustine to Vaughan City Hall. As former caucus colleagues and longtime seat mates in the House of Commons, we enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect through our shared passion for public service.
“I fondly recall when Dr. Augustine secured her seat as the Member of Parliament for the riding of Etobicoke-Lakeshore because it marked the first time in history that an African-Canadian woman was elected to the House of Commons. This was indeed the first of many history-making and record-breaking accomplishments in her time as MP from 1993 to 2006.
“Dr. Augustine has received many notable recognitions,
including honorary Doctor of Law degrees from six universities and being the
namesake for the Jean Augustine Girls’ Leadership Academy, the Jean Augustine
Secondary School and the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and
Diaspora at York University. She also served as the Fairness Commissioner for
the Government of Ontario advocating for Canadians with foreign credentials
from 2007-2015.
“During her time as MP, she introduced the motion that
allowed for the placement of the Famous Five statue on Parliament Hill as well
as the motion that led to the creation of Black History Month in Canada which was
officially recognized in December 1995 by the House of Commons. It is a
celebration that unites communities, like Vaughan, and honours men and women
who have made lasting city-building and nation-building contributions.
“As one of the most culturally rich and diverse cities in
Canada, Vaughan proudly celebrates the tradition of honouring Black History
Month. Every February, we join in marking this occasion to share meaningful
lessons and stories with younger generations, as well as family, friends and neighbours.
Black History Month provides an important opportunity to acknowledge the
history, values and heritage of the black community.
“Among my greatest joys as a public servant is the sacred
act of coming together with like-minded individuals to advance the noble
mission of making meaningful contributions to society. I was pleased to sit
down with my friend, Dr. Jean Augustine, to discuss issues of diversity,
inclusion and multiculturalism. I have invited her to participate in next
year’s Black History Month celebration and look forward to welcoming her to the
City of Vaughan in the future.”
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