Hon. Dr. Jean Augustine: A Trailblazer for Change and Justice
The tale of Dr. Jean Augustine is one of extraordinary fortitude, unshakable commitment, and life-changing influence. She was born in 1937 in St. George's, Grenada, and her path to become a trailblazing leader in Canada is proof of the strength of dedication and hard work in the fight for social justice. She came to Canada in 1960 under the Canada-Caribbean Domestic Program and worked as a nanny while attending the University of Toronto and Toronto Teachers' College for her further education. With perseverance, she obtained her master's degree in education and began a career as a teacher, principal, and eventually supervisory officer that would influence the lives of countless people.
Outside of the classroom, Dr. Augustine was passionate about social change. She was a member of many boards, such as the Metro Toronto Housing Authority, the Hospital for Sick Children, and the Congress of Black Women of Canada. Political leaders took notice of her dedication to enhancing lives via housing, education, and community advocacy, which led to her historic election to the House of Commons in 1993. Augustine broke down boundaries and supported legislative ideas that had a lasting impact on Canadian society as the first African-Canadian woman elected to Parliament. "Our task is to level the playing field so that everyone has an equal shot at success," she famously said.
Dr. Augustine's accomplishments during her time in parliament included gaining unanimous support for Canada's Black History Month, promoting the Famous Five Monument on Parliament Hill, and spearheading programs for low-income families. She promoted equality and education in all countries through her activities. She was named Ontario's first Fairness Commissioner in 2007, guaranteeing foreign-trained professionals’ equitable access to jobs.
Through the Jean Augustine Centre for Young Women's Empowerment and other scholarships for students and single moms, Dr. Jean Augustine is still active in the field today. Her memory is preserved in organizations and landmarks that take her name, and she has received multiple honors, including the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario. The life of Dr. Jean Augustine is a testament to the strength of education, leadership, and a persistent dedication to justice.
ICONIC QUOTE
"If you do not have a clear conviction of who you really are, you may begin to believe other people's opinion of you"
― Patricia Bebia Mawa