Main | BlackNews.ca | Black News Canada | Black Canadian News

Greg Fergus: A Historic Journey to Becoming Canada’s First Black Speaker

admin — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 21:59:22 +0000

In a groundbreaking moment in Canadian political history, Greg Fergus made history as the first Black Canadian to hold the prestigious role of Speaker of the House of Commons. Replacing Anthony Rota, Fergus, a Liberal MP representing Hull—Aylmer in the National Capital Region of Quebec, achieved this historic milestone amidst a backdrop of international controversy. This article delves into the journey and responsibilities of Greg Fergus as the newly appointed Speaker, the significance of his appointment, and a glimpse into his personal and political background.

Greg Fergus: A Historic Appointment

Greg Fergus’s election as the Speaker of the House of Commons marked a momentous occasion not only for him but for all Canadians. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, acknowledging the significance of this moment, hailed Fergus as the first Black Canadian to assume the role. After over a century and a half of exclusively white speakers, Fergus’s election is a significant step towards a more inclusive and diverse Canadian political landscape.

The Role of the Speaker

Fostering Respectful Debate

One of the key aspects of Greg Fergus’s vision for his role as Speaker is to ensure that parliamentary debates maintain a respectful tone. He emphasized the importance of treating fellow Members of Parliament (MPs) with respect, setting an example for Canadians. In a political climate often marked by heated exchanges, Fergus’s commitment to fostering mutual understanding and respect is a breath of fresh air.

Balancing Government Business and MPs’ Rights

The Speaker plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance between the government’s ability to conduct its business efficiently and the rights of all MPs as outlined in the House of Commons rules. They ensure that debates are conducted in an orderly manner, that votes are cast in case of ties, and that decorum is maintained within the chamber.

Administrative and Diplomatic Duties

Beyond the parliamentary chamber, the Speaker is the head of the House of Commons administration employees, responsible for its overall direction and management. They oversee matters of administrative and financial policy affecting the House and its members. Additionally, the Speaker represents the House in its interactions with the Senate, the Crown, and other external bodies, including diplomatic functions.

A Glimpse into Greg Fergus's Background

Before ascending to the role of Speaker, Greg Fergus’s life and career were marked by a commitment to public service and advocacy. Born in Montreal, Fergus hails from a family with roots in Montserrat, and he holds two bachelor’s degrees—one in social science from the University of Ottawa and another in international relations from Carleton University. His academic pursuits also included graduate studies in international relations.

Fergus’s political journey began with work as a policy adviser in various ministerial offices, followed by his appointment as the national director of the Liberal Party of Canada in 2007. Over three decades, he contributed his expertise to both the private and public sectors, including serving on the board of directors for Aylmer Arms, a residence for retired and semi-retired seniors.

In the realm of Canadian politics, Fergus made a significant impact. He served as the president of the Young Liberals of Canada from 1994 to 1996, a pivotal period when the youth wing voted to recognize same-sex marriage. His dedication to advancing social issues and civil rights was evident even in his earlier years.

The Rising Star MP

Greg Fergus’s journey in the world of Canadian politics reached new heights when he was first elected in 2015 to represent the Quebec riding of Hull—Aylmer. In a noteworthy victory, he flipped the seat from New Democratic control, defeating incumbent Nycole Turmel. Impressively, Fergus has secured victory in every subsequent election in the riding, consistently receiving over 50 percent of the vote.

Throughout his tenure, Fergus held parliamentary assistant positions in various ministries, including the minister of innovation, science, and industry, the minister of digital government, and the president of the Treasury Board. In 2021, he assumed the role of Parliamentary Secretary to both Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Minister of Health Mark Holland, a testament to his increasing influence and responsibility within the Liberal government.

Greg Fergus also played a pivotal role in the formation of the Parliamentary Black Caucus, a group of MPs advocating for greater recognition and action against anti-Black racism in Canada. Their efforts included urging Prime Minister Trudeau to address this issue in 2018, further highlighting Fergus’s commitment to social justice and equality.

Greg Fergus Speaker and the Path Forward

In a historic moment that resonates far beyond the halls of Parliament, Greg Fergus has assumed the role of Speaker of the House of Commons, becoming the first Black Canadian to do so. His vision for a more respectful and collaborative parliamentary debate sets a positive tone for the future of Canadian politics. Greg Fergus’s journey from an advocate for social change to a prominent MP and now Speaker is a testament to his dedication to public service and his commitment to making Canada a more inclusive and equitable nation.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Q1: Who is Greg Fergus Speaker, and why is his appointment significant?

Greg Fergus is a Liberal MP who made history by becoming the first Black Canadian to be elected as the Speaker of the House of Commons. His appointment is significant as it marks a momentous step towards a more diverse and inclusive Canadian political landscape.

Q2: What are the responsibilities of the Speaker of the House of Commons in Canada?

The Speaker’s role includes maintaining respectful parliamentary debates, balancing government business and MPs’ rights, overseeing administrative and financial matters, and representing the House in diplomatic interactions.

Q3: What is Greg Fergus’s background and political career before becoming Speaker?

Before becoming Speaker, Greg Fergus had a rich career in public service, working as a policy adviser, serving as the national director of the Liberal Party of Canada, and contributing to various sectors, including the private and public spheres.

Q4: What is the significance of the Parliamentary Black Caucus, and what role did Greg Fergus play in its formation?

The Parliamentary Black Caucus is a group of MPs advocating for greater recognition and action against anti-Black racism in Canada. Greg Fergus played a pivotal role in its formation, emphasizing the importance of addressing this issue in Canadian society.

The post Greg Fergus: A Historic Journey to Becoming Canada’s First Black Speaker appeared first on Blacknews.ca.

RealOnes: Navigating a World of Black-Owned Businesses and Allies

admin — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 14:40:58 +0000

In the vast landscape of business and commerce, finding your place can be a daunting task, especially if you are a Black Canadian seeking to support businesses that resonate with your roots and values. It’s a quest for not just products and services but also a sense of belonging and shared identity. Enter RealOnes, the revolutionary GPS app that is changing the way Black Canadians discover and support Black-Owned Businesses and their allies. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of RealOnes, exploring its features, mission, and how it’s empowering communities across the globe.

Discovering Your Community

Imagine having a powerful tool at your fingertips that allows you to locate Black-Owned Businesses and allies, whether they are on your street or across the world. RealOnes is that tool, offering a dynamic and interactive directory for Black Canadians looking to connect with businesses that resonate with their heritage and values.

Unveiling the Power of RealOnes

RealOnes: More Than a Directory

RealOnes is not just another directory; it’s a game-changer in the world of commerce. This distinctive GPS app is recognized for its role in helping people find and support Black, Indigenous, and allied businesses. It’s not just about locating businesses; it’s about fostering a sense of community and empowerment.

Making Anti-Racism a Priority

In an era where consumers are increasingly conscious of where they spend their money, RealOnes provides a unique feature. Users can confidently support businesses that actively invest in anti-racism efforts. It’s more than just a purchase; it’s a statement of solidarity.

Stay Informed

RealOnes keeps you in the loop. You can receive notifications about your favorite businesses’ sales or new locations. If you’re a business owner, you can keep track of your subscribers, ensuring you’re always connected with your loyal customers.

Global Reach, Local Impact

RealOnes has a vision to be a worldwide phenomenon. While it’s based in Toronto, its ambitions extend far beyond one city. With the goal of having millions of businesses and users across the globe, RealOnes aims to be a household name that brings communities together and encourages engagement on their own terms.

Empowering Communities

Uplifting Black Businesses

At its core, RealOnes GPS is about uplifting and empowering Black businesses. Whether you’re a business owner or a consumer, this platform offers the opportunity to make a real impact in your neighborhood and beyond. It’s more than just commerce; it’s about building a thriving ecosystem.

Joining the RealOnes Community

Are you ready to embark on a journey of discovery and empowerment? Joining the RealOnes community is easy and free. Businesses can list their services, and consumers can explore a world of options. It’s a win-win for both sides of the marketplace.

Navigating a New Era of Commerce

As we navigate a rapidly evolving business landscape, tools like RealOnes GPS are vital. They not only simplify our consumer choices but also empower us to make choices that align with our values and heritage. RealOnes is more than just an app; it’s a movement towards a more connected and inclusive world of commerce.

FAQ: Your RealOnes Questions Answered

Q1: How does RealOnes determine if a business is Black-Owned or an ally?

RealOnes ensures that at least 50% of a business is owned by a Black person to be listed as Black-Owned. For allies, the criteria include a commitment to anti-racism efforts.

Q2: Is RealOnes available for both Android and iOS?

Yes, RealOnes is available for free on both Android and iOS devices, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

Q3: Is RealOnes only for Black Canadians?

While RealOnes is designed to cater to the needs of Black Canadians, it is open to anyone interested in supporting Black-Owned Businesses and allies.

Q4: How can I set up notifications for my favorite businesses on RealOnes?

Setting up notifications is easy. Simply subscribe to your favorite businesses, and you’ll receive updates on their sales and new locations.

Q5: Can businesses outside of Toronto list on RealOnes?

Yes, businesses from anywhere in the world can list on RealOnes, making it a global platform for connecting businesses and consumers.

Q6: Is it free to list my business on RealOnes?

Yes, it’s completely free to list your business on RealOnes, making it a cost-effective way to reach a broader audience.

Q7: How can I download RealOnes on my device?

You can download RealOnes for free from the Google Play Store for Android devices and the App Store for iOS devices. Simply search for “RealOnes” and start exploring the world of Black-Owned Businesses and allies.

The post RealOnes: Navigating a World of Black-Owned Businesses and Allies appeared first on Blacknews.ca.

Bridging Healthcare Gaps: The Black Health Professionals Network’s Quest for Equitable Access

admin — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 02:42:02 +0000

Access to healthcare is a fundamental right that should be provided to all people, regardless of race or ethnicity. However, reality frequently falls short of this ideal. Accessing culturally responsive healthcare for Black Canadians can be a difficult path, as there are few practitioners who genuinely comprehend their diverse origins and experiences. Recognizing the urgent need for change, the Black Healthcare Professionals Network (BHPN) has launched a ground-breaking initiative: a comprehensive database of Black healthcare professionals throughout Canada. This revolutionary technology has the potential to break down barriers and greatly improve Black Canadians’ access to quality healthcare.

Empowering Black Healthcare Professionals

The Black Healthcare Professionals Network was founded in 2021 with the purpose of elevating the careers of Black professionals in the healthcare field while actively advocating. The organization, created by a group of visionaries, quickly saw the importance of creating greater representation and understanding within the healthcare system. This discovery resulted in the development of a platform that would connect Black Canadians with healthcare practitioners who could provide not only great medical treatment but also a thorough grasp of their specific healthcare requirements.

A Comprehensive Directory for Holistic Care

The foundation of this forward-thinking effort is a comprehensive list of healthcare experts. This all-inclusive strategy strives to bring together doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, psychotherapists, nutritionists, massage therapists, and a variety of other professionals. These professionals voluntarily register for inclusion in the list, and their licenses are rigorously vetted to ensure they are in good standing.

The directory itself is intended to make direct connections between healthcare professionals and patients possible. It acts as a key link, providing patients with simple access to contact information for healthcare experts who are not only highly qualified but also profoundly committed to understanding and meeting the special healthcare requirements of Canada’s Black community.

Joining the Network

The Black Healthcare workers Network welcomes Black healthcare workers in Canada to join their network for free. Membership not only provides visibility in the directory, but also access to a multitude of services such as email updates, networking events, and important healthcare industry news.

BHPN's Holistic Approach to Empowerment

The Black Healthcare Professionals Network is more than just a directory. It is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for Black healthcare workers in Ontario and abroad. The organization’s mission is defined by several fundamental objectives:

1. Building a Comprehensive Directory: The primary goal is to develop a robust ecosystem of Black healthcare professionals in Ontario by creating a comprehensive directory accessible to the general public.

2. Embracing Innovative Technology: Recognizing the importance of accessibility and user-friendliness, the BHPN is actively developing an app and web-based directory of Black healthcare professionals from various fields. This platform will feature both public and professional interfaces, ensuring ease of use for both patients and healthcare providers.

3. Facilitating Networking and Collaboration: The BHPN understands the transformative power of networking. It seeks to provide opportunities for Black healthcare professionals to connect with one another through networking, referrals, partnerships, and collaborative efforts. This interconnectedness promises not only to benefit the professionals but also to enhance healthcare delivery to the Black community.

4. Supporting Entrepreneurship: Aspiring Black healthcare entrepreneurs will find a nurturing environment within BHPN. The organization offers tailored business advisory services, mentorship programs, and networking events to empower Black healthcare professionals in realizing their entrepreneurial and business development goals.

A Brighter Future for Black Healthcare in Canada

The establishment of the Black Healthcare Professionals Network and its innovative directory represents a huge step toward ensuring fair access to healthcare for Black Canadians. This unique network not only connects patients with culturally competent healthcare practitioners, but it also helps Black healthcare professionals advance in their jobs and start their own businesses.

The Black Healthcare Professionals Network is actively driving positive change in a healthcare sector that should be characterized by inclusivity and diversity. They are tackling inequities in healthcare access and establishing a bright example for a more equitable future in healthcare for all Canadians via their unrelenting dedication to representation, advocacy, and community-building.

Visit the Black Healthcare Professionals Network (BHPN) here.

The post Bridging Healthcare Gaps: The Black Health Professionals Network’s Quest for Equitable Access appeared first on Blacknews.ca.

Olivier-Maxence Prosper: A Canadian Basketball Phenom Takes the NBA by Storm

admin — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 22:26:46 +0000

In a narrative that exemplifies the power of perseverance and hard effort, Olivier-Maxence Prosper, a Montreal local, accomplished a lifetime dream when he was taken 24th overall in the NBA draft by the Sacramento Kings, only to be traded to the Dallas Mavericks shortly after. The 20-year-old forward, who stands 6 feet 8 inches tall and weighs 230 pounds, has embarked on a remarkable journey driven by his love of basketball and unshakeable devotion to perfection. Prosper was born into a basketball family, with both his mother, Guylaine, and father, Gaetan, being college basketball all-stars, and his sister, Cassandre, on her way to the WNBA. Let’s take a look at his incredible journey to the NBA and his bright future.

Ascending Draft Boards and the NBA Academy:

Prosper’s rise through the draft ranks was a testament to his outstanding talent and unwavering work ethic. The six-foot-seven wing from Rosemere, Quebec, a Montreal suburb, drew the attention of scouts and analysts with his extraordinary abilities and versatility. His outstanding performance during his senior year of high school at the NBA Academy in Mexico City cemented his status as a rising prospect. Notably, Prosper had this experience with fellow Montrealer Bennedict Mathurin, who was drafted sixth overall by the Indiana Pacers after winning NBA all-rookie honours before enrolling at Clemson University in 2020. Prosper’s basketball career was launched by the NBA Academy, which provided him with crucial training and exposure to elite competition.

Dominance at Marquette University

Prosper’s academic career took him to Marquette University, where he sharpened his skills and established himself as a force to be reckoned with. He shown his versatility and defensive brilliance when playing for the Marquette Golden Eagles, a top-tier American college basketball club, often assuming the burden of guarding the opponent’s best scorer, regardless of position. Prosper emerged as one of the top defenders in college basketball during his two seasons at Marquette, because of his discipline, basketball IQ, and devotion to shutting down opponents. Offensively, Prosper, on the other hand, genuinely matured in his last season, making great strides on the offensive end of the floor. Prosper demonstrated his ability to impact the game on numerous fronts by averaging 12.5 points and 4.7 rebounds per game while shooting 51% from the field, 34% from beyond the arc, and 71% from the free-throw line.

NBA Draft: A Dream Realized

Prosper’s dedication and outstanding performance were not overlooked. As the NBA draft approached, anticipation grew, and Prosper’s name became a hot subject among basketball fans. His admission to the green room, a restricted location reserved for predicted first-round picks, demonstrated teams’ faith in his ability. Finally, on draft night, Prosper got the moment he’d been waiting for his entire life. He was selected with the 24th overall pick and initially assigned to the Sacramento Kings, but was quickly moved to the Dallas Mavericks. Prosper became the first Canadian player to be selected in the draft that year, cementing his position in basketball history and paving the way for an amazing professional career.

The post Olivier-Maxence Prosper: A Canadian Basketball Phenom Takes the NBA by Storm appeared first on Blacknews.ca.

Montreal Police Caught Pushing Homeless Man Into Cement Block (Allegedly)

admin — Sun, 01 May 2022 15:55:26 +0000

As per his normal routine, Bader Niang was sheltering in a Chinatown alleyway when allegedly, two officers woke him up and asked him to leave. Obeying their order, Niang made an attempt to fully rise and retrieve his shoes, when surprisingly, a policeman pushed him into a concrete block.

Niang, who moved to Canada from Senegal 7 years ago, prefers the area due to the warmth it provides.

Montreal Police state they are aware of the video and are currently investigating:

Mayor Valérie Plante has also been outspoken about the incident on Twitter:

Still recovering (physically & mentally), Niang hopes the experience will be a teachable moment for Police on how to deal with the homeless.

The post Montreal Police Caught Pushing Homeless Man Into Cement Block (Allegedly) appeared first on Blacknews.ca.

Salome Bey Honoured with new Commemorative Stamp

admin — Sat, 23 Apr 2022 04:21:58 +0000

Bey, who died in 2020, was a major presence in the music and theatre sectors in Canada.

Born in New Jersey, she moved to Toronto in 1964 where she began playing the Jazz circuit. It was during this time; she was given the name “Canada’s First Lady of Blues”.

Onstage and in the studio, Bey captivated audiences with her deep sound, and she soon turned her talents to writing songs and musicals. Her creation “Indigo”, a Blues & Jazz cabaret, focused on the history of Black music.

She has also appeared on Broadway in “Your Arms Too Short to Box with God” and received a Grammy nomination for her work on the cast album.

In 1964, she married Howard Berkeley Mathews. They had three children, including artists Saidah Baba Talibah (SATE) and Jacintha Tuku Matthews (tUkU).

In conjunction with the stamp, Bey’s family will re-release her 1970 self-entitled album.

Other accomplishments include:

In 1985, she was selected to participate in a charity single to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. The group named “Northern Lights”, consisted of Bryan Adams, Corey Hart, Ann Murray, Neil Young among others.
Her dedication to Canada’s artistic community earned her a Toronto Arts Award in 1992
Received Martin Luther King Jr. Award for lifetime accomplishment from Montreal’s Black Theatre Workshop in 1996.
In 2005, she was made an honorary member of the Order of Canada
In 2021, Bey was officially inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame.

The post Salome Bey Honoured with new Commemorative Stamp appeared first on Blacknews.ca.

14-Year-Old Surfer Making Waves in Canada

admin — Sat, 16 Apr 2022 03:52:27 +0000

Meet Juniper Balch from Halifax Nova Scotia

Balch was 1 of 250 Participants in Surf Canada’s 2022 National Competition in Tofino, British Columbia (April 8-10, 2022). She’s also the only Black surfer to compete in her age category in the province.Showing true persistence, Juniper conquered injury and rough waves to finish 4^th in the competition.

Juniper competed on Sunday, the final day of the event where conditions were very poor. During her heat, while fighting rough waves, she was unfortunately injured by her board. Several individuals encouraged her to forfeit due to fear of further injury, but Juniper pressed on and completed her following event, which allowed her to finish 4^th and receive a copper medal. Individuals were in awe of her self-less dedication and fearlessness.

Her father is very proud of her, not only due to the skills she has developed, but for her ability to successfully represent the Black community.

Prior to the National Competition, Balch had won her last 3 competitions for her age group in Nova Scotia.

Balch expressed thankfulness to the Black Wellness Cooperative of Nova Scotia who conducted fundraising and support so Balch could travel to B.C. for the event.

While not competing, she spends her time volunteering with the North Preston Surf Program, where she hopes to inspire black youths to join the sport.

She also enjoys Soccer and is an avid Kayaker.

The post 14-Year-Old Surfer Making Waves in Canada appeared first on Blacknews.ca.

Get To know Canadian Basketball Player & New York Knick R.J. Barrett

admin — Sun, 30 Jan 2022 05:47:44 +0000

Rowan Alexander “RJ” Barrett Jr. (born June 14, 2000), is a Canadian professional basketball player for the National Basketball Association’s, New York Knicks. RJ, the son of former NBA player Rowan Barrett, was born in Toronto and attended St.Marcellinus Secondary School in Mississauga, Ontario, before transferring to Montverde Academy in Montverde, Florida.

He was a five-star recruit and the consensus top recruit in the 2018 class, earning Naismith Prep Player of the Year and Gatorade National Player of the Year honours, in his final high school season while playing mostly as a shooting guard.

All recruiting services ranked him as the best player in his class, and he became the first player since LeBron James, to win all major high school awards and the national championship.

Barrett was named MVP of the 2017 FIBA Under-19 Basketball World Cup, with the Canadian national under-19 team, after leading his team to a gold medal.

Barrett was selected third overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, by the New York Knicks on June 20, 2019.

On November 1st, he put up 27 points and 6 rebounds in a 113–104 loss to his hometown Toronto Raptors.

Barrett is the godson of Steve Nash, a Basketball Hall of Fame inductee who played on the Canadian national team with his father.

The post Get To know Canadian Basketball Player & New York Knick R.J. Barrett appeared first on Blacknews.ca.