A dedicated educator, a tireless social activist and a passionate politician; few members of the York University community have had as extraordinary and lasting impact on society as the Honourable Jean Augustine, Canada’s first Black woman to be elected to the House of Commons and the first to be appointed to federal cabinet.
Last week, community members joined Augustine at York’s Keele Campus to celebrate an announcement of funding from the federal government to support the endowed university Chair in her name.
The Hon. Kamal Khera, Canada’s Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities delivered the news, “Having access to equal opportunities and a brighter future should not depend on the color of your skin or your origins. Our government is committed to dismantling systemic barriers wherever they persist in our country,” she said. “Partnering with organizations like the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community, and Diaspora, we are creating pathways to education for Black youth and future Black scholars, thereby building a stronger, more prosperous Canada.”
The $1.5 million federal contribution represents a major milestone for the endowed Chair – now fully funded with more than $3 million, thanks in large part to many years of dedicated grassroots fundraising efforts led by Augustine, supported by her devoted network, and backed by matching funds provided by the University.
York University News Release
Read the full article here.