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"It becomes more possible to elect another Black person, so that it seems not that exceptional."
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Zanana AkandeZanana Akande
Zanana Akande
Zanana Lorraine Akande is a Canadian politician in Ontario. She was a New Democratic member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario from 1990 to 1994 who represented the downtown Toronto riding of St. Andrew—St. Patrick. She served as a cabinet minister in the government of Bob Rae. She was the first woman from the African diaspora elected to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, and the first Black
"It becomes more possible to elect another Black person, so that it seems not that exceptional."
"Both of my parents were interested in politics, but it was really my father who encouraged us from a very young age to watch the news and consider why certain decisions were being made."
"A passionate and determined advocate for social justice, Zanana Akande made history in Canada as the first Black woman to serve as a cabinet minister."
"I felt I could do more on the outside, which I continued to do working for long-term care and integrated services for children."
"Today, for her tireless leadership in public service and her fearless advocacy for equity and diversity, Akande will receive a Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, from the University of Toronto."
"I supported their platform because I thought it spoke to the issues that were most unfair and needed to be addressed."