(Being the transcript of a speech delivered by Prof AG Ahmed, MD, LLM, FRCPC on Feb 24, 2024 at an ABC’s event commemorating Black History Month, 2024)
Let me start by acknowledging that I live and majorly work on Treaty 6 territory, the traditional and home lands of the Cree, Salute aux, Nakota, and Métis peoples. I honour their stewardship of this land for generations and recognize their ongoing connection to it. I personally commit to learning from their wisdom, respecting their rights, and working towards reconciliation and a more inclusive future.
Ladies and gentlemen, organizers of the of this event (Association of Black Conservatives (ABC)), fellow speakers, and distinguished guests, I am deeply honored to be here today as we come together to commemorate Black History Month in Canada. This month serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience, achievements, and invaluable contributions of Black individuals throughout history.
From the earliest arrival of a person of African heritage in Canada over 400 years ago to the trailblazers and visionaries who have shaped our history on this land, the stories of Mathieu Da Costa, William Peyton Hubbard, Charles Roach, Lincoln Alexander, Viola Desmond, Isaac Phills, Jean Augustine, and many others inspire us to continue fighting for equality, justice, and empowerment for all.
In the spirit of this celebration, let us also recognize and honor the contemporary contributions and accomplishments of Black Canadians such as Adeola Olubamiji, Chika Stacy, Stella Umeh, Dayo Ade, Cheluchi Onyemelukwe, Fred Sherman and many others. These individuals exemplify resilience, determination, and a pursuit of excellence that continue to break barriers and inspire others.
Yesterday afternoon while Yinka and I were on a riverside walk along the Mississippi River in New Orleans we saw a sign commemorating the transatlantic slave trade to Louisiana that started in 1719. The sign identifies Wolof, Hausa, Yoruba, Ibibio, Igbo, Mandingo and many other tribes forced from their homes in motherland. Their stories depicted by multiple padlocks on the slave landing bridge a few members away, reinforced for both us, the significance ABC’s theme for this event. The themes of rejuvenation and resolve are central to the Black experience, guiding individuals towards personal growth, transformation, and success.
As an African, storytelling is innate in me. So I am going to tell you 2 short stories. The first is story about Wole, an African immigrant physician who sought a fresh beginning in the UK. Before leaving the shores of Africa in his mid twenties, he had a plan; to come and acquire clinical research skills and return home to work as a clinical researcher and contribute to scientific advancement in his country and Africa . Upon arriving the UK to start residency training the course that he had signed up was not to hold that year although he could still continue his residency training. Wole won’t have any of that and off he went to the university authorities to advocate for the resumption of a Masters Program at his home university as advertised. He didn’t stop at that he went down street to sister university in the same city to register for a master program in research methodology. Wole’s story of determination and rejuvenation, resulting in the acquisition of two master’s degrees and membership of the UK Royal College in his specialty of medicine in less than four years, is a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Black community from the days of slavery to date. This showcases the transformative power of perseverance, courage, and commitment to positive change in the face of obstacles.
As we commemorate Black History Month and honour the stories of rejuvenation and resolve within the Black community, let us embrace the power of renewal, unwavering determination, and unity in our pursuit of a future filled with growth, transformation, and success for all. Let us stand together in solidarity, uplift one another, and continue to celebrate the rich tapestry of Black history in Canada.
I would like end by telling you my second story. This is about a group farmers facing a severe drought in a small prairie village. They decided to collaborate, sharing resources and knowledge. They dug irrigation channels, rotated crops, and supported each other. Their crops flourished, and the village thrived. Collaboration became a way of life, creating a strong and united community. Let us collaboratively carry forward the spirit of resilience, revitalization, and empowerment as we strive for a more inclusive and equitable society. Together, we can create a future where lall individuals, regardless of race or background, have the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
Thank you for your attention.