Statement from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre on Lincoln Alexander Day

The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on Lincoln Alexander Day: 

“A soldier. A lawyer. A statesman. A proud Conservative. Lincoln Alexander was them all, serving his country in the House of Commons, Cabinet, and as Lieutenant Governor of Ontario with distinction. 

"Inspired by John Diefenbaker's Bill of Rights, he ran for office in 1968, becoming our nation's first Black MP. For over a decade, he served the people of Hamilton West, including as Minister for Labour - the first Black federal cabinet minister. 

"Even after leaving politics, he never left his dedication to public service. In 1985, Lincoln Alexander was appointed Ontario's Lieutenant Governor, the first black man to serve as a vice-regal representative. Having been the first member of his family to attend university, he used his position to champion equality in education. 

"Despite the obstacles of racism and discrimination he encountered throughout his life, Alexander always stood up to challenge those who built barriers of creed and colour. He was a champion of this country and the opportunity it provided, where the son of a railway porter and a Jamaican immigrant could represent his community and make Canada a better place for his fellow Canadians. 

"Today, as we remember this trailblazer, let his legacy continue to inspire generations to uphold the promise of Canada – where anyone from anywhere can do anything.”